BASIC CORRECTIONS FIREARMS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

Bend, Ore. – The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Management will conduct a targeted Deschutes Alerts test at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 25. This annual reminder message will be sent to approximately 2,500 residents who have indicated in their Deschutes Alerts profile that they have additional needs, such as mobility challenges, dialysis requirements, or reliance on electrically powered medical equipment.

This is not a countywide test. Only a small subgroup of Deschutes Alerts users will receive the message. The purpose of this reminder is to encourage residents with additional needs to review and update their emergency notification information.

Key Details

• Date & Time: Wednesday, February 25 at 10:00 a.m
• Who Will Receive It: Residents who have identified additional needs in their Deschutes Alerts account
• Why It Matters: Keeping this information current helps emergency responders prioritize outreach during disasters when time allows

Need Help?

• A call center will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on February 25 at 541-550-4888 for assistance with Deschutes Alerts accounts, password help, and updates
• Before the test, residents can call 541-388-6501 for account assistance
• After 2:00 p.m. on February 25, calls to 541-550-4888 will automatically route to staff desks for follow-up

The next countywide Deschutes Alerts test is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, which will include all registered users (approximately 70,000 people).

For those who rely on electricity for medical equipment or refrigerated medications, it’s also a good idea to contact your power provider about emergency preparedness options:

• Central Electric Cooperative: 541-548-2144
• Midstate Electric Cooperative: 541-536-2126
• Pacific Power: 1-888-221-7070

Deschutes Alerts is a vital tool for keeping our community informed about all types of emergencies or alerts that impact neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, or daily life. Sign up today at deschutesalerts.org

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Updated Press Release Attached 

SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) will meet at 10 a.m. on March 3, 2026, in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry at 2600 State Street in Salem. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Harvest tax allocation for fiscal year 2027 (FY27) district budgets
• Weather update
• Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF) fiscal year 2025 (FY25) ending balance and current financial status
• Status reports on EFCC work groups
• Fiscal year 2025 (FY25) audit report
• Administrative Branch/Protection Division/Administrator reports

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.

Bend, Ore. – The 15-year-old male juvenile who left a secure J Bar J Youth Services facility on Sunday, February 22nd, was located and arrested Monday Afternoon. The Redmond Police Department responded to a call at Applebee’s in Redmond at 12:44 p.m. and took the juvenile into custody without incident.

The juvenile left the secure J Bar J Youth Services facility without authorization around 10:45 p.m. Sunday. The facility is located in the same building as Deschutes County Juvenile Community Justice on Britta Street in north Bend. The juvenile was housed in a secure Behavior Rehabilitation Services program and was not permitted to leave the facility. He is on parole for aggravated assault with a weapon.

J Bar J Youth Services leases housing units from Deschutes County Juvenile Community Justice but provides its own staffing and security. Participants are not free to leave and must complete a formal release process with their parole officer, including a 72-hour implementation plan. The juvenile did not initiate a release plan, and his parole officer issued an arrest warrant Sunday night for absconding.

Deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office immediately began searching the area and issued a neighborhood alert to residents in the north Bend area to increase awareness and request assistance.

In accordance with Oregon law and standard practice, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office does not release the name or photograph of juveniles involved in juvenile proceedings.

The Sheriff’s Office thanks the Redmond Police Department for its assistance. 

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HAREFEST ANNOUNCES 2026 LINEUP

The Mother of All Tribute Festivals Continues to Set the Standard 

Canby, OR – (February 23, 2026) HAREFEST has announced its lineup for the 14th year of the annual tribute band music festival at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds & Event Center. The 3-day festival takes place July 16–18, 2026 and features 24 bands on two stages, including tributes to QUEEN, FLEETWOOD MAC, LED ZEPPELIN, DEF LEPPARD, EAGLES, MOTLEY CRUE, TOM PETTY, RUSH, AC/DC, ABBA, DURAN DURAN, FOO FIGHTERS, JUDAS PRIEST, HEART, ALICE IN CHAINS, THE CARS, BON JOVI, STEVE MILLER BAND, BILLY JOEL, BOSTON, BEASTIE BOYS, IRON MAIDEN, YACHT ROCK, and more. Each night features a finale set in the Event Center’s courtyard (dubbed “Hippie Hollow”) that includes a laser light show produced by Laser Gator. 

Harefest returns to the Clackamas County Fairgrounds & Event Center and is once again expanding its footprint to include additional RV parking and tent sites after selling out well in advance for several consecutive years. In all, nearly 500 overnight spaces are available for what’s been referred to as “The Coachella of Tribute Bands.” 

Other event highlights for this year’s edition of HAREFEST include: 

• An “After 5pm” ticket option for Friday and Saturday nights

• Video walls on each side of the main stage for enhanced concert viewing

• A Saturday morning “Yacht Rock Brunch” featuring Red Light Romeos

• The “Farewell Performance” of Anthem - Rush Tribute

• Rock Shop’s Headbangers Ball with special guests, closing out the festival and hosted by legendary Ozzy impersonator Tim Tugg of Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne tribute

Now in its 14th year, Harefest has grown from a regional gathering of tribute band fans into the cornerstone event of a multi-festival portfolio produced by Harefest LLC. In addition to Harefest, the company also produces Legends Reloaded, Capital City Retro Fest, 90’s Flannel Fest, and Seattle Retro Fest, further expanding its footprint as a tribute-focused festival producer in the Pacific Northwest.

“Over the past few years, we’ve been fortunate to grow beyond Harefest and launch additional festivals throughout the region,” said co-founder Jason Fellman. “But Harefest remains the event that started it all. It’s our biggest production, our most established tradition, and the one that continues to set the standard for everything we do. Every year we reinvest what we’ve learned across our other events to make Harefest even better.”

Harefest is a 21-and-over event. Tickets go on sale Friday, February 27 at 10 a.m. via Afton Tickets at harefest.com/tickets. 

LINKS 

Festival website: www.harefest.com

Additional Band Info: www.j-fell.com 

Logos / Images / Site Maps: https://bit.ly/HarefestMedia 

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February 23, 2026

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

Application deadline extended for OAC Council

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

• An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy
• A representative of a coordinated care organization

Application extended: To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 pm, March 15, 2026.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by March 31, 2026.

For questions or more information, email HRN@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">BHRN@oha.oregon.gov ,or contact Karli Moon at li.moon@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

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February 23, 2026

Media Contact: Amy Bacher, acher2@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov  

Oregon Health Authority welcomes new Principal Ombuds

Bend, Ore. -- At 10:45 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, a 15-year-old male juvenile escaped from the Deschutes County Juvenile Detention Center located on Britta Street in north Bend.

The juvenile is described as a mixed-race male, thin build, approximately 6 feet 4 inches tall, with dirty blonde curly hair and glasses. He was last seen wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and dark pants.

Upon learning of the escape, deputies immediately began searching the area and issued a neighborhood alert to residents in the north Bend area to increase awareness and request assistance. Law enforcement personnel are actively working to locate the juvenile.

If you see someone matching this description or have information about the juvenile’s whereabouts, call 9-1-1 immediately. In accordance with Oregon law and standard practice, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office does not release the name or photograph of juveniles involved in juvenile proceedings.

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Eagle Crest, Ore. – On February 20, 2026, at 8:12 a.m., a deputy with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a passenger vehicle in the Sisters area after observing the driver operating aggressively, including brake-checking the deputy and driving over a roundabout. The driver failed to yield and continued through Sisters. Out of caution, the deputy did not pursue. The vehicle was last seen traveling west on Highway 20 past Black Butte.

The same vehicle was then observed returning to Sisters at 8:53 a.m. Deputies, assisted by Oregon State Police and the Black Butte Police Department, attempted another traffic stop. The driver fled east on Highway 20, prompting a pursuit. Deputies used a Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT), but the suspect regained control and sped away at a high rate of speed. The pursuit was terminated for public safety as the vehicle headed toward Tumalo and Bend.

At 11:07 a.m., a concerned citizen in the Eagle Crest area reported a vehicle following them, making them feel uncomfortable. Deputies responded and identified the vehicle as the same one from earlier. Multiple spike strips were successfully deployed, and a second PIT maneuver brought the vehicle to a stop on Eagle Crest Boulevard.

The driver, Doug R. Greaser, 54, of Eagle Crest, tried to walk away and resisted arrest but was taken into custody and transported to St. Charles-Bend for further evaluation. Greaser was arrested on the following charges:

• Felony Attempt to Elude (3 counts)
• Reckless Driving (3 counts)
• Multiple counts of Reckless Endangering
• Assault on a Police Officer

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office thanks Oregon State Police, Black Butte Police Department, and the community for their assistance in safely resolving this incident.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4. The meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The meeting is open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel. 

The board’s business agenda includes:

• State forester introduction
• Legislative session update
• Board of Forestry Governance Committee’s recommendations to the Board Manual and best practices
• Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee comments
• State Forests: Update on the rulemaking process for the Western Oregon Forest Management Plan and Performance Measures
• Governor’s Natural Resource Team update
• Update on the Adaptive Management Program
• Tethered logging rulemaking

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

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

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-302-6344 or by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov" target="_blank">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. 

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media hotline: 503-813-6018

PacifiCorp Announces Settlement of All Federal Claims for Damages from 2020 Labor Day Wildfires and 2022 McKinney Fire

Portland, Ore. (February 20, 2026) — PacifiCorp has reached a comprehensive settlement for $575 million resolving all known federal government claims for damages related to the 2020 Labor Day wildfires—including the 242, Archie Creek, Echo Mountain, Slater and South Obenchain fires—and the 2022 McKinney wildfire. 

“This settlement is another significant milestone demonstrating our ongoing commitment to resolve all reasonable claims related to the devastating fires that affected Oregon and California,” said Ryan Flynn, President of Pacific Power. “Setting aside claims arising from the Beachie Creek/Santiam Canyon fire, we have now settled nearly 90 percent of known claims for a total of more than $2.2 billion, providing certainty for customers and progress toward a financially healthy utility.”

PacifiCorp continues to invest in wildfire prevention and mitigation initiatives, including situational awareness, advanced monitoring technologies, enhanced vegetation management and system strengthening. The company remains dedicated to collaborating with regulators, legislators and customers to develop long-term solutions that address the growing threat of wildfire and other extreme weather events.

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About PacifiCorp

PacifiCorp is one of the lowest-cost electrical providers in the United States, serving two 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 as the largest regulated utility owner of wind power in the West. For more information, visit PacifiCorp.com.

MEDFORD, Ore.—A Central Point, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for felon in possession of a firearm after he and his co-defendants targeted an elderly victim and stole over $250,000 worth of gold, cash, and firearms.

Jonathan Anthony Kinsella, 53, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release. 

According to court documents, in August 2023, Kinsella, a convicted felon, came up with a plan and solicited his wife and friend to burglarize an elderly victim. Kinsella and the two co-defendants split approximately $103,000 in cash, $180,000 in gold coins, and five firearms. Police executed a search warrant at Kinsella’s residence and found a .40 S & W caliber pistol, a .30-30 Winchester caliber rifle, a Colt .38 Special revolver, and a 12-guage weapon made from a shotgun.

On February 1, 2024, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Kinsella with two counts of felon in possession of a firearm.

On October 20, 2025, Kinsella pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Judith Harper prosecuted the case.

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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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Salem, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for ordering live-streamed child sexual abuse material from child sex traffickers in the Philippines in exchange for money.

Steven Daniel Griswold, 44, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $12,000 special assessment under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018.

According to court documents, from 2018 through 2019, Griswold paid for and received livestreamed “shows” featuring the sexual abuse and exploitation of children as young as three years old in the Philippines. During the livestreams, Griswold gave child sex traffickers in the Philippines specific instructions on how to abuse the children and received child sexual abuse material from the traffickers. Griswold typically paid traffickers between $20 to $40 for the livestreams. Griswold left the United States for the Philippines in 2020 after learning he was under investigation for uploading child pornography to Snapchat in an unrelated case.

On November 14, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a four-count indictment charging Griswold with sexual exploitation of children, attempted sexual exploitation of children, and receiving child pornography.

Griswold was arrested in the United States in March 2024 after being deported from the Philippines. He was transported to Portland, Oregon, for his arraignment on May 9, 2024. On November 5, 2025, Griswold pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of children.

Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eliza Carmen Rodriguez and Charlotte Kelley prosecuted the case.

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

If you or someone you know are victims of human trafficking or have information about a potential human trafficking situation, please call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website.

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PORTLAND, Ore.— PacifiCorp has agreed to pay $575 million to resolve the United States’ claims for damages resulting from six wildfires in Oregon and California.

The four Oregon fires are:

• The “242 Fire,” which began on Sept. 7, 2020, near Chiloquin and burned 8,916 acres of federal land;
• The “Archie Creek Fire,” which began on Sept. 8, 2020, near French Creek in the Umpqua National Forest and burned 67,000 acres of federal land;
• The “Echo Mountain Complex Fire,” which began on Sept. 7, 2020, near Otis and burned approximately 2,500 acres, including federal land; and
• The “South Obenchain Fire,” which began on Sept. 8, 2020, east of Eagle Point and burned 14,780 acres of federal land.

The two California fires are:

• The “Slater Fire,” which began on Sept. 8, 2020, on Slater Butte National Forest lands within the Klamath National Forest and burned 157,229 acres of federal land within the Klamath, Six River, and Rogue River Siskiyou National Forests; and
• The “McKinney Fire,” which began on July 29, 2022, on land next to the Klamath National Forest and burned 39,000 acres of federal land.

The settlement resolves the United States’ claims that PacifiCorp’s electrical lines negligently started all six fires. The settlement monies will help repay the United States for the substantial costs it incurred fighting the fires, which is critical because the U.S. Forest Service now spends more than half of its budget on wildfire suppression annually. Settlement funds will also be distributed to the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to restore some of the 290,000 acres of public land that were burned.

These recoveries are among the largest federal wildfire recoveries to date.

“The United States and PacifiCorp have reached a settlement that ensures fair compensation to the American taxpayer for fire-related damages,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “This agreement strikes a balance by addressing the government’s significant fire-suppression costs and loss of natural resources without preventing PacifiCorp from offering electricity at fair prices.”

“Wildfires remain a recurring threat to our natural resources, the safety of our communities, and their economic well-being. The costs of land losses and fire responses are substantial,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “Recouping the costs associated with these wildfires is a priority for our office, and this settlement achieves that.”

“This settlement served the Department’s longstanding policy of holding individuals and corporations responsible for damages caused by wildfires. Every fire impacting federal lands, no matter the size, is a priority,” said U.S. Attorney Eric Grant of the Eastern District of California.

This settlement is the result of a joint effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for Oregon and the Eastern District of California, the U.S. Forest Service and the Department of the Interior.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis Lien of the District of Oregon and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara Amin and Kelli L. Taylor of the Eastern District of California handled the cases for the U.S. Attorney’s Offices.

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. PacifiCorp continues to deny liability for these fires.

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Frontline caregivers vote to expand and extend historic contract agreement.

(BEND, Ore.) – Registered nurses overwhelmingly voted to ratify a two-and-a-half year contract agreement with St. Charles Bend Feb. 19. The new agreement builds on nurses’ historic 2023 contract which addressed rising costs, improved caregiver recruitment and retention, and rebuilt trust between frontline caregivers and St. Charles management. 

“This agreement shows what’s possible when nurses are treated as strategic partners,” said Rosa Brock, RN, ONA executive team chair at St. Charles Bend. “Working together we found a way to build on our successes, continue raising healthcare standards and ensure our community has a stable healthcare system with nurses they know they can rely on.”

KEY CONTRACT HIGHLIGHTS

• Recruitment and retention improvements with wage increases of 7.5% spread over the next two and a half years
• Pay equity for nurse case managers and transfer center PLRN/TCRNs who will be placed on same salary scale as their nurse colleagues 
• Long-term healthcare stability with a new contract that continues through June 30, 2029

As the only level II trauma center east of the Cascades, nurses at St. Charles Bend are responsible for patients from across Central and Eastern Oregon and into Washington. During difficult economic times, nurses felt it was more important than ever to sign a contract that provides continuity and certainty for patients throughout the region.  

“A lot of our neighbors are struggling. Housing costs are up, the tourist industry is hurting and people are having trouble getting access to basic healthcare,” said David Hilderbrand, RN, ONA vice-chair at St. Charles Bend. “This contract stabilizes our community’s safety net. Your nurses aren’t going anywhere.”

Nurses and St. Charles management have been actively collaborating to address health and safety issues between bargaining sessions through a labor management committee. Nurses plan to continue working together with St. Charles management to keep building trust and solving problems as they arise. 

“Our last agreement helped us turn the corner and resolve a lot of our recruitment and retention issues,” said Brock. “Now that we’re more safely staffed, we can spend more time with each patient and focus on our passion; caring for our community.”

The new contract runs through June 30, 2029.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents more than 1200 registered nurses at St. Charles Bend along with providers at St. Charles Prineville, Redmond and Home Health and Hospice.

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The 2026 Oregon Heritage Conference: Stories, Culture, Place – Weaving Community Heritage will be in Woodburn and surrounding areas April 29 – May 2, 2026.
 

The conference is a time for people who share a common passion for Oregon’s heritage and history to come together to share insights, understand connections, develop relationships, learn new ways, reinforce the value of the work and leave energized to keep moving forward.
 

Designed to be interdisciplinary and cross-pollenating, the conference focuses on all sectors of cultural heritage, such as historic preservation, museums, archives, libraries, Main Streets, historic cemeteries, archaeology, Tribes, genealogy, public history, and local, state, federal government.
 

Communities are complex and varied, how they are viewed by visitors and residents is informed by the long history of human experience in that place and their own experiences. The 2026 Oregon Heritage Conference will explore the intersection of stories, culture and place to develop community heritage. This heritage is the anchor for participation, economic development, connection, and possibilities for a vibrant and healthy community. 
 

The City of Woodburn and Oregon Museums Association are valuable conference partners. Get conference details and registration information at www.oregonheritage.org. 

Highlights include:

• Keynote Speaker Monica Rhodes is an internationally recognized cultural heritage leader whose work is redefining how our nation understands memory and the future of historic places. She will be exploring the future of heritage work. This speaker was funded in part by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
• Celebrate with the Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards!
• Oregon Humanities Consider This – Labor, Farmworker Organizing, and Histories of Indigenous Communities in Oregon. Free and open to the public!

The sessions, workshops and tours will be spread throughout Woodburn and the surrounding area to help people preserving and sharing heritage and history in Oregon through 32 sessions, 6 topical networking meet ups, 8 workshops, 3 demonstrations, 10 tours, and a celebration of amazing heritage preservation work across the state.
 

Registration is available for Monica Rhodes keynote and the Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards alone and as part of the full conference registration.
 

Thanks to our conference sponsors: Oregon Correction Enterprises, America 250 Oregon Commission, University of Oregon Libraries, Historic Oregon Newspapers, Energy Trust of Oregon, and Proxi. And thank you to the 2026 Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards Sponsor Oregon Historical Society.

To learn more about the conference, visit www.oregonheritage.org. For additional questions, translation and accessibility needs contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

SALEM, Oregon— Starting March 30, 2026, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will no longer waive the parking fee at 22 additional day-use parks.

A day-use parking permit is currently $10 for in-state visitors and $12 for out-of-state visitors and is valid for the entire day of purchase at any Oregon state park.

Access to parks remains free for visitors who walk, bike, or use public transportation. Visitors who drive in can show valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a current 12 or 24-month parking permit. Visitors who purchase parking permits online or via the parking QR codes can associate their license plates with valid payment.

Currently, OPRD requires a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks across the state. The 22 additional parks were selected based on amenities and features that require maintenance and operation such as restrooms, trails, paving, irrigation, boat ramps and more. Parking fees help pay for maintenance, operation, and keep these offerings available for all visitors.

“These updates are about protecting the experiences visitors love,” said Interim Director Stefanie Coons. “We know fee changes are tough and we truly appreciate the support from visitors. These changes help us take care of things people count on like restrooms, boat ramps, and trails, so we can keep parks safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone.”

Oregon State Parks has three main sources of funding: a little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. It is not funded by general fund taxes.

For frequent visitors looking to save on parking, an annual parking permit is available for Oregon State Parks and can be purchased online. The 12-month parking permit costs $60 for Oregon residents. The 24-month parking permit is no longer for sale, but valid permits will be honored until they expire.

Additionally, March 30 also marks the start of a $10 fee at 19 RV dump stations across the park system. This fee helps cover the cost of maintaining this amenity and supports efforts toward more sustainable operations. Visitors can pay easily by scanning a QR code at the dump station or by paying online.

Whether you are visiting for the day or camping overnight, Oregon State Parks recommends that you visit the park webpage before your visit. Conditions can change quickly and some parks may have construction or seasonal closures.

Oregon state parks with parking fees added March 30, 2026:

• Agate Beach State Recreation Area
• Angel’s Rest Trailhead
• Banks-Vernonia State Trail
• Bob Straub State Park
• Brian Booth State Park
• Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint
• Cape Blanco State Park
• Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
• Carl G Washburne Memorial State Park
• Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
• Elijah Bristow State Park
• Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
• Gleneden Beach State Recreation Area
• Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site
• Lake Owyhee State Park
• Latourell Falls Trailhead at Guy Talbot State Park
• Molalla River State Park
• Oceanside Beach State Recreation Area
• Roads End State Recreation Site
• Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
• Wallowa Lake State Park
• William M Tugman State Park

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Romanian national pleaded guilty yesterday in connection with an online intrusion into an Oregon state government office, along with multiple cyber attacks on other U.S. victims.

Catalin Dragomir, 45, formerly of Constanta, Romania, pleaded guilty to obtaining information from a protected computer and aggravated identity theft.

According to court documents, Dragomir sold access to a computer on the network of an Oregon state government office after obtaining unauthorized access to it in June 2021. During the sale of access to the computer, Dragomir provided the prospective buyer with samples of personal identifying information from the computer to prove he had actual access to the network. Dragomir also sold access to the computer networks of numerous other victims in the U.S., causing losses of at least $250,000.

On May 21, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five-count indictment charging Dragomir with obtaining information from a protected computer, money laundering, and aggravated identity theft.

Dragomir was arrested in Romania in November 2024 and extradited to the United States in January 2025.

Dragomir faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release for obtaining information from a protected computer and a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000, and one year of supervised release for aggravated identity theft.

He will be sentenced on May 26, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Dragomir has agreed to pay restitution in full to the victims and forfeited cryptocurrency.

The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine A. Rykken for the District of Oregon and Trial Attorneys Benjamin A. Bleiberg and Alison M. Zitron of the Justice Department’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) are prosecuting the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs worked with the Romanian Ministry of Justice, Directorate for International Law and Judicial Cooperation, and the Romanian judiciary to secure the arrest and extradition of Dragomir. The Department of Justice also thanks Darkweb IQ for its assistance with the investigation.

CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cybercriminals and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.

# # #

Tillamook Highway during December floods,, photo courtesy of ODOT

SALEM, Ore. — Gov. Tina Kotek has requested a major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump following severe storms that struck Oregon from Dec. 15 to Dec. 21, 2025. The request seeks public assistance for nine counties — Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union and Yamhill — and statewide access to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.  

 "The scale of damage from December's severe storms impacted multiple Oregon communities, with more than $15 million in losses and needed repairs. Rural communities are stretched beyond their limits, and help from FEMA is urgently needed,” Governor Kotek said. “I'm requesting a major disaster declaration from President Trump because Oregonians did the hard work of showing up for each other and they deserve federal support to rebuild." 

The storms brought record rainfall, high winds and an atmospheric river that caused widespread flooding, landslides and mudslides. At the peak, more than 300,000 Oregonians were without power, and multiple highways and interstates were closed. One person died in Yamhill County. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has created an interactive StoryMap detailing the event and its timeline. 

A joint preliminary damage assessment validated more than $15.4 million in eligible damages. Tillamook County had the highest per-capita damage at $154.29 per person. Without federal assistance, rural communities and consumer-owned utilities could face significant financial strain. 

“This storm struck our communities with little warning, leaving widespread damage and compounding the hardships from earlier storms and ongoing recovery efforts,” Erin McMahon, OEM director, said. “Local governments and utilities have worked tirelessly to protect lives and restore essential services, but the scale of destruction far exceeds what local resources can manage alone. Federal assistance is critical to help communities recover and build resilience against future disasters.” 

If approved, the declaration will provide funding for debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to roads, bridges, utilities and other public infrastructure. Hazard mitigation funding would support long-term projects to reduce future disaster impacts.

For more information on Oregon’s disaster recovery efforts and how to be better prepared for disasters, visit Oregon.gov/OEM. 

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (19 February 2026) – On Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 12:56 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 near milepost 167 in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Honda Odyssey, operated by Leyla Ann Ayers (24) of Cottage Grove, was traveling southbound on I-5 near Cottage Grove when it left the right shoulder of the roadway for unknown reasons. The vehicle struck the roadside embankment and overturned, ejecting the driver. The vehicle came to an uncontrolled stop, partially blocking the highway.

The operator (Ayers) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. On February 17, 2026, OSP was notified by hospital staff that Ayers had died from injuries sustained during the crash.

The highway remained open during the on-scene investigation.

Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

OSP was assisted by South Lane Fire and Rescue, Taylor’s Towing, 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.

UPDATE: Arrests made in road rage shooting incident. 

Oregon State Police have made two arrests related to a road rage shooting incident that occurred on June 27, 2025. On February 17, 2026, OSP detectives arrested Malachi Martinez-Sligar (22) of Salem on a warrant for the charges of Attempted Murder, Attempted Assault I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Recklessly Endangering, and Reckless Driving.

On February 19, 2026, detectives arrested Aedyn Michael Williamson (18) of Philomath on an arrest warrant for the charges of Attempted Murder, Attempted Assault I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Recklessly Endangering.
 

Both suspects were lodged at the Marion County Jail.

No additional information is available for release at this time. 

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (June 27, 2025) – At approximately 12:21 a.m. on June 27, 2025, Oregon State Police responded to a reported road rage incident on Interstate 5 southbound, between mileposts 265 and 263, in Marion County.

The incident involved a 2010 black Nissan Maxima and a sport utility vehicle resembling a 2008–2011 Dodge Journey, lighter in color, possibly gold or silver. Both vehicles were reportedly traveling in the far left and middle lanes at various points during the altercation.

During the altercation, the right-front passenger in the Dodge Journey discharged a firearm at the Nissan Maxima, striking the vehicle’s rear driver-side quarter panel multiple times. The shooter was reportedly wearing a ski mask. No injuries were reported.
 

The Dodge Journey was last seen exiting I-5 south at milepost 263 in an unknown direction.

There is not believed to be an ongoing threat to the public.  

OSP is asking for the public’s assistance in gathering information related to this case. If you have any information, please contact Detective Kelly Lorence through the Northern Command Center dispatch at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP25-317802.

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About the Oregon State Police
The Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that safeguards Oregon’s people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws, investigates crimes, performs postmortem examinations and forensic analyses, conducts background checks, and manages law enforcement data. The agency also regulates gaming and enforces laws related to fish, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP includes more than 1,400 employees—troopers, investigators, and professional staff—delivering comprehensive public safety services to Oregon and supporting law enforcement partners statewide.

COOS COUNTY, Ore. (19 February 2026) – On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 6:09 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 101 near milepost 223 in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Ford F-150 towing a flatbed trailer, operated by Matthew Rafael Gonzalez (30) of St. George, Utah, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 101 near Lakeside when it struck black ice. The operator lost control, struck the guardrail, crossed into the southbound lane, and collided with a tan Chevy Tracker operated by James Ervin Bramhall (64) of Lakeside. A blue Dodge 1500 pickup, operated by John Paul Burgmeier (24) of Coos Bay, then rear-ended the flatbed, also due to black ice on the roadway.

The operator of the Chevy Tracker (Bramhall) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford F-150 (Gonzalez) had reported minor injuries.

The operator of the Dodge 1500 (Burgmeier) was reportedly not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 3.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Lakeside Fire Department, Houser Fire Department, Winchester Bay Fire Department, Lower Umpqua Ambulance, 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.

Bend, Ore. — At 6:17 a.m., deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an attempted break-in and assault at a travel trailer located off Highway 20 between Bend and Sisters.

Deputies say 52-year-old Bradon Michael Planty attempted to force entry into a travel trailer where a couple is currently living on their own property while the house is for sale. The suspect allegedly broke a window, tried to get inside, and threatened to kill the couple. The male victim was able to call 9-1-1 for help.

During the confrontation, detectives say Planty used a knife and tried to gain entry, causing injuries to the female victim. She was then able to arm herself with her own knife in self-defense, but Planty gained possession of both knives and tried using them against her.  The female kept Planty from gaining entry for several minutes until deputies arrived.

Planty left the scene but was later located by deputies nearby. He resisted arrest and assaulted a peace officer before being taken into custody without further incident. The female victim was treated at the scene and declined transport to the hospital.

Planty was arrested and lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail on the following charges:

• Assault 1 - Felony
• Assault 2 - Felony
• Assault on Public Safety Officer - Felony
• 2 Counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon - Felony
• Coercion - Felony
• Burglary 1
• Criminal Trespass 1 
• Menacing
• Criminal Mischief 1 (property damage)

Additional charges may be added as the investigation continues. 

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Editors: OHA and OHSU medical experts will hold a media briefing at 11 a.m. today to give an update on measles in Oregon and a new measles data tracking tool. Reporters can join via Zoom at this link; a livestream for the public is available via YouTube at this link. The YouTube livestream will be recorded and can be viewed later. 

February 19, 2026  

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

Oregon reports measles outbreak; new wastewater dashboard tracks measles virus by county

With revolving balances topping $1.28 trillion, credit union shares practical guidance to use credit as a tool — not a trap

PORTLAND, Ore. – New data shows U.S. credit card debt has climbed to nearly $1.28 trillion, placing household revolving balances near record highs. As interest rates remain elevated, how consumers use credit matters more than ever.

“Credit itself isn’t the problem; it’s how it’s used,” says Meredith Bureau, Hillsdale branch manager at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Good credit can support long-term goals and financial stability, while high-interest, revolving debt can undermine progress if it’s left unchecked.”

With the latest statistics from the Federal Reserve and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York showing American consumers have amassed about $1.28 trillion in revolving credit card balances, OnPoint encourages consumers in Oregon and southwest Washington to ask whether credit use is helping or hurting their financial health. OnPoint offers the following guidance to help navigate today’s credit landscape:

1. Understand the difference between good and bad credit. Good credit is typically tied to long-term goals such as education, a home or reliable transportation. It is managed with a clear repayment plan. Bad credit often shows up as high-interest, revolving balances that grow over time and strain monthly budgets.
2. Pay attention to interest rates, not just balances. With credit card rates remaining high, even modest balances can generate significant interest costs. Paying off higher-rate debt first can lead to faster savings.
3. Watch for warning signs. Relying on credit cards for everyday essentials, carrying balances near credit limits, or making only minimum payments can signal that credit is becoming a liability rather than a tool.
4. Create a payoff strategy. Listing balances, interest rates and due dates helps bring clarity. Focusing on the highest-interest balance first or setting up automatic payments can reduce stress and prevent late fees.
5. Consider consolidation — carefully. Options like personal loans or balance transfers can make sense as long as they have a clear plan and timeline to pay down debt, rather than simply extending it.
6. Use trusted financial guidance. Credit unions often provide personalized counseling, budgeting tools and member-focused products designed to help people manage credit responsibly and build stronger financial footing. OnPoint members can also access personalized financial counseling through the credit union’s GreenPath Financial Wellness partnership.​

“Credit should work for you, not against you,” Bureau adds. “Small, intentional steps, especially now, can make a meaningful difference in both credit scores and peace of mind. And OnPoint is here to support our members as they achieve their financial goals.”

TODAY: Virtual media briefing on measles in Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man pleaded guilty today after assaulting a federal officer at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Robert Jacob Hoopes, 25, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault of a federal employee with a dangerous weapon resulting in bodily injury.

According to court documents, on June 14, 2025, Hoopes threw a large rock and struck an ICE officer in the head, causing a significant laceration over the officer’s eye. Later that same day, he and two other individuals were seen using an upended stop sign as a makeshift battering ram, which resulted in significant damage to the main entry door to the ICE building. 

On August 5, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a two-count indictment charging Hoopes with aggravated assault on a federal employee with a dangerous weapon and depredation of federal property.

Hoopes faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on May 12, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Hoopes has agreed to pay full restitution, estimated to be over $7,000

The FBI is investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— The owner of a tree removal business was sentenced to prison today for willfully failing to pay over employment taxes to the IRS on behalf of the company she owned and operated.

Joyce Leard, 47, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Leard was also ordered to pay $2,880,346.25 in restitution and $100 special assessment.

According to court documents and statements made in court, from approximately 2017 through 2024, Leard owned and operated Mr. Tree Inc., a Happy Valley, Oregon, company that provided tree removal and landscaping services to customers. The company advertised itself as being in business for thirty years and employed approximately 50 to 75 employees each year.

Leard was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare, and federal income taxes from the wages of her employees and paying those funds over to the IRS each quarter, as well as filing quarterly employment tax returns with the IRS.

From the fourth quarter of 2018 through the fourth quarter of 2020, Leard withheld taxes from her employees’ wages but did not pay over those taxes to the IRS or file quarterly employment tax returns. Instead, she used funds in Mr. Tree’s business bank account to pay other expenses and creditors and purchased approximately $3.5 million of real estate. During this period, the company also did not file a corporate tax return, and, from 2018 through 2020, Leard did not file a personal income tax return, as required by law. 

Leard’s conduct caused a total tax loss of over $3.5 million.

On January 14, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 12-count indictment charging Leard with willful failure to account for and pay over tax and willful failure to file return.

On June 16, 2025, Leard pleaded guilty to one count of willful failure to account for and pay over tax.

IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Trial Attorneys J. Parker Gochenour and Megan E. Wessel of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section prosecuted the case with substantial support from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Salem, OR—The Oregon Department of Revenue has begun distributing refunds for the 2025 tax year. Through February 17, the department has processed more than 500,000 electronically filed tax returns.

Most taxpayers can expect to receive their refunds within two weeks of the date their return is filed. Some returns, however, require additional review and can take up to 20 weeks before a refund is issued.

Oregon is returning a $1.41 billion revenue surplus “kicker” to taxpayers in 2026. The kicker credit will either increase a taxpayer's refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. The credit is a percentage of Oregon personal income tax liability for the 2024 tax year. Taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using a “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online.

The department encourages taxpayers to file electronically. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper returns will experience a significantly longer wait in 2026 due to processing delays.

In the closing months of 2025, the IRS was late providing necessary tax form information to the Oregon Department of Revenue. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns will not begin until the end of March. The first refunds for paper-filed returns are not expected to be issued until April.

Taxpayers can check the status of their e-filed refund by using the department’s Where’s My Refund? tool. The Department of Revenue recommends that taxpayers wait one week after they have electronically filed their return to use the Where’s My Refund tool. Paper-filed returns won’t show up in the Where’s My Refund? tool until processing begins in late March. Taxpayers mailing their return should wait two weeks after the department starts processing paper returns in late March or after mailing their return, whichever is later.

The Where’s My Refund? tool has been updated for 2026, providing clear messaging about the status of their return to taxpayers who are signed into their Revenue Online account. Taxpayers who don’t already have a Revenue Online account can create one by following the Revenue Online link on the department’s website. Taxpayers who don’t have a Revenue Online account can still use the Where’s My Refund? tool but won’t be able to see the updated features.

A video outlining the refund process and timelines is also available to help taxpayers understand the process.

Taxpayers should file just once unless they need to make a change to their return. They should choose to either file electronically or by paper. Doing both will delay processing of their return.

In addition to checking the status of their refund, taxpayers can make payments, or get tax forms by visiting the department’s website. Questions can be emailed to questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

Taxpayers can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), the department accepts all relay calls.
 

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CORVALLIS, Ore. — Benton County recognized the Day of Remembrance for Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II in the Feb. 17 Board of Commissioners meeting.

Dr. Janet Seiko Nishihara, director of the Educational Opportunities Program at Oregon State University, read a proclamation recognizing Feb. 19 as the Day of Remembrance of Japanese Americans Incarcerated During World War II.

The national Day of Remembrance commemorates the signing of Executive Order 9066 in 1942, which led to the forced removal and incarceration of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans. Communities across the United States hold events each February to honor those affected and reflect on civil rights and civil liberties.

Benton County Deputy District Attorney Kevin Hashizume joined Nishihara before the Board to share personal connections in his family’s history. A recording of the proclamation reading is available on the Benton County Board of Commissioners meeting video at the 14:30 mark.

Nishihara reflected on both injustice and resilience, emphasizing that sharing personal and family histories remains critical to helping the broader community understand the lasting impacts of incarceration and why the message of “Never Again” must continue. 

“Our stories are two of the thousands from the incarceration and can add greatly to the understanding of the larger community about the ramifications of what happened and why ‘Never Again’ is a theme that we must keep going,” Nishihara said.

She also emphasized that remembrance includes recognizing both the hardships faced and the strength communities demonstrated under confinement.

“Despite the conditions in which they lived, Japanese Americans were resourceful and stood up systems and structures that continued to bring their community together,” Nishihara said. “During this time, they created their own churches, post offices, security departments, fire brigades, schools, and recreational and educational activities for the many children in the camps."

"While all of these activities and internal structures were built by the incarcerated Japanese residents, they were still surrounded by armed guards and barbed wire, which were constant reminders of the denial of their civil rights.”

For Hashizume, this history hits close to home. His father, Naotaka “John” Hashizume, was a young child when his family was incarcerated at the Heart Mountain camp in Wyoming. Growing up, Kevin Hashizume said the experience was rarely discussed directly at home.

“We just called it ‘camp,’” Hashizume said. “As kids we thought it was like a summer camp or something.”

He said it was not until adulthood that he fully understood the emotional weight the experience carried for his father. Looking back, he began to notice patterns — including his father’s reluctance to travel outside California.

“He wanted to stay where he felt safe and comfortable, and he wouldn’t always say why,” Hashizume said. “It wasn’t until I was older that I realized how much it affected him.”

Hashizume said his own visit to Heart Mountain brought a new level of understanding. Seeing the location in person while his children were close to the same age his father had been at the time created a powerful emotional connection.

“I thought about what that must have been like and whether I would have been strong enough,” he said. “They had a comfortable life in Hollywood with a nice house. Everything was taken, and they left with only what they could carry.”

Watching preserved home movies and photographs of his family playing as children while at Heart Mountain added another layer of emotion. Hashizume said he is proud his grandfather intentionally documented and safeguarded that history.

“It’s something we were never taught in school,” he said. “To know my grandfather put real effort into preserving it means a lot to be able to bring that history back into focus.”

The Hashizume family maintains strong ties to the Japanese American National Museum and to the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center in Wyoming, where interviews, photographs and artifacts connected to the family are archived and shared with the public.

Hashizume also noted that some modern migrant detention facilities exist near or on the same sites as former incarceration camps, one reason many families and advocacy groups continue to speak out and work to keep the history visible.

Benton County District Attorney Ryan Joslin said Hashizume’s family connection makes him a valuable resource when discussing the topic. Joslin noted that Hashizume keeps several historic photographs and related items displayed in his office and willingly shares them to help others better understand the history. 

While D.A. Joslin does not have a personal family connection to wartime incarceration, the subject is meaningful to him. He lived in Japan from 1987 to 1989 and later majored in Japanese as an undergraduate, experiences he said gave him a lasting appreciation for the people of Japan, their culture and history.

An interview with Naotaka “John” Hashizume, conducted by the Japanese American National Museum when they brought part of the Eaton Collection to the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center in 2016, is available on Japanese American National Museum YouTube.

Amateur footage from the Hashizume family collection, including scenes from Heart Mountain, is available through Discover Nikkei.

Proclamations read before and adopted by the Benton County Board of Commissioners are a tool to formally acknowledge history and promote public understanding. The Hashizume family’s history serves as an important local example of the relevance of continuing to honor and learn from the past.

WASHINGTON — The Bureau of Land Management is inviting public input for proposed updates to resources management across 2.5 million acres of highly productive timberlands in western Oregon, an effort that underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to expanding domestic timber production and reducing reliance on foreign imports.

“Bringing timber production back to historic levels is essential for reviving local economies and reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfires,” said Acting BLM Director Bill Groffy. “President Trump has made it clear — enhanced domestic timber production is vital for our national security, economic prosperity, and effective wildfire management.”

A notice will publish in tomorrow’s Federal Register to open the comment period, which closes on March 23. Additional information is available at the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments may be submitted through the “Participate Now” option. Written comments may also be emailed to LM_OR_Revision_Scoping@blm.gov" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 94, 162);">BLM_OR_Revision_Scoping@blm.gov or delivered to: Attention BLM OR930, 1220 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204.

The BLM remains committed to supplying a secure, resilient domestic timber supply. In western Oregon, this commitment is rooted in the Oregon and California Revested Lands Sustained Yield Management Act of 1937, which ensures sustainable forestry practices that support communities and livelihoods.

Revenue from timber harvested on these lands is shared between the U.S. Treasury and 18 western Oregon counties—funding essential local services such as schools, libraries, public safety, and infrastructure projects. Each year, BLM timber sales support approximately 2,000 local jobs and generate more than $1 billion for local economies.

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The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.