Updated essential salmonid habitat map available now

The map identifies streams where removal-fill permits are often required to help protect critical habitat for salmon species

The State of Oregon has published the 2025 essential salmonid habitat map, which shows streams where activities like building docks or adding riprap usually require a removal-fill permit.  
 

The map identifies streams that are critical habitat for Chinook salmon, steelhead trout, and other sensitive, threatened or endangered fish species. Oregon law protects these streams by requiring a removal-fill permit for most projects that remove or add any materials. View the 2025 map and learn more.

The map is updated as often as yearly to reflect current Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife data. These regular updates keep habitat information accurate, which in turn helps property owners do their part to protect fish, said Oregon Department of State Lands Director Vicki Walker. 

“Anyone who lives along a river or stream should check the map,” Walker said. “The first step in protecting fish populations is knowing whether a waterway is essential habitat.”

The 2025 update added approximately 113 stream miles of essential habitat in multiple areas of Oregon. Approximately 12 stream miles are no longer essential habitat. See the draft map to view the changes for 2025.

The annual map update process includes Tribal engagement and a public review and comment period.

Stay informed about future map updates by joining DSL’s email list for essential salmonid habitat map information. Sign up to receive emails.

CORRECTION: This version has a corrected media contact phone number.

March 17, 2025

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

New opioid treatment center enhances access to services in Central Oregon, supports Oregon’s efforts to reduce opioid deaths 

Salem, Ore. – A new medication assisted treatment center for those recovering from substance use disorder will open this month in Redmond, enhancing access to services in Central Oregon and supporting Oregon’s efforts to reduce opioid deaths statewide.

“In the past, people seeking treatment for opioid use disorder in Central Oregon had to drive to Bend for services; now they can access treatment in their own community,” said John Mcilveen, Ph.D., OHA’s State Opioid Treatment Authority.  “Access to effective treatment is a critical factor in overcoming addiction.”

The new Redmond Treatment Center in Redmond is the result of a $1.25 million allocation by the Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment & Recovery Board (Settlement Board) that expanded and strengthened Central Oregon’s access to substance use disorder treatment and services through opioid treatment programs (OTPs) and jails.

"This new location makes it easier for current patients who are traveling to Bend to juggle work and family commitments with treatment,” said Matt Owen, Managing Director of Oregon Recovery and Treatment Centers. “In our experience, for every person who travels over 30 minutes for treatment, there are one to two more who want help but don’t have the time or means to make the trip."

Two of the most common barriers to addiction treatment are cost and geographical location. In addition to increasing accessibility in Central Oregon, the Redmond Treatment Center will address cost by accepting Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance and self-pay options.

The Redmond Treatment Center, located at 865 SW Veterans Way, will open March 24. Anyone seeking treatment for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) can seek help at the clinic. Treatment will include counseling, psychosocial supports, and FDA approved medications for the treatment of OUD. For more information on seeking care at the Redmond Treatment Center call 1-458-206-5982.

The Redmond Treatment Center is one way Oregon is expanding treatment access through an integrated, coordinated and culturally responsive approach, which is a core goal of OHA’s 2024-2027 Strategic Plan.

OHA’s Strategic Plan supports transforming behavioral health by building a behavioral health system that works for every child, teen, adult and family experiencing mental illness or harmful substance use by expanding integrated, coordinated and culturally responsive behavioral health services when and where people need them. 

For more information on Oregon’s opioid settlement funds visit oregon.gov/opioidsettlement. 

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An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Gregory Leon Robinson, died the morning of March 17, 2025. Robinson was incarcerated at Deer Ridge Correctional Institution (DRCI) in Madras and passed away at a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Robinson entered DOC custody on October 24, 2023, from Lane County with an earliest release date of July 5, 2026. Robinson was 35 years old. Next of kin has been notified.  

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

Deer Ridge Correctional Institution (DRCI) is located four miles east of Madras in central Oregon. DRCI is a multi-custody prison that currently houses 947 minimum-custody incarcerated adults. DRCI provides a range of correctional programs and services including education and trades programs, mental health treatment, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work crews. Construction began in October 2005 with the first minimum-security adults in custody (AICs) arriving in September 2007. DRCI is the largest minimum-custody facility in the state and Oregon’s fourteenth prison.

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Salem, Ore.  – You may think you don’t need to file a tax return. But you might be missing out on getting a big tax refund in the mail. If you need help filing, there’s free help thanks to the Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Program, which funds community organizations throughout the state to offer free tax filing help for people who qualify. See below to pick the best location for free tax help.

Many working Oregonians aren’t required to file a tax return. Or, they haven’t filed for years. So why bother?

Here are some reasons to file a tax return:

• You could get a significant amount of money back. Your employer may have withheld too much money from your paycheck. You may have excess withholding payments that can be returned to you as a refund, particularly if you worked part time or for only part of the year.

• There’s a bevy of tax credits. There’s the state and federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for working people with low incomes; the Oregon Kids Credit if you have children; the Working Family Credit if you have childcare costs;  the Retirement Savings Credit if you’re saving for retirement; the American Opportunity Credit if you attend college; and other credits.
• You are under age 18 and believe your parents file your tax return. A common misconception for families occurs when children work and their parent claims them as a dependent on their return. Depending on how much they worked, young people working part-time can receive hundreds of dollars of excess withholding while still being claimed as a dependent on their parent’s return.
• You have never filed or haven’t filed over the last few years. Many people missed filing their tax return during the pandemic. If you need to file prior year returns, there is free in-person tax filing help available: https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/individuals/Pages/get-free-tax-help.aspx)
• You may be required to file an Oregon return. The income requirements for filing a state return Oregon are much lower than for the federal Internal Revenue Service. For single person with no dependents in Oregon it is $7,710. Check your Oregon filing requirements: https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/individuals/Pages/file-requirements.aspx#fullyear.

• You missed the April 15 tax day deadline and think it’s too late. If you are due a refund, there is no penalty for late filing. Free tax filing help is available through mid-October.

The Tax Infrastructure Grant Program funds culturally relevant or culturally specific organizations, Tribal governments and rural community organizations to help educate and provide free tax filing help for people with low incomes. Help is available in multiple languages. The grant money is also used to increase the number of certified tax preparers in Oregon.

Where to get free help filing taxes

• 211Info: Call 2-1-1 or email help@211info.org for a list of all the free tax filing help.

• Oregon State University; vita@oregonstate.edu; 541-737-3371; Corvallis, Bend, Eugene OSU VITA website: https://business.oregonstate.edu/volunteer-income-tax-assistance  
• Western Oregon University; wouvita@wou.edu; 503-751-4132; Monmouth, Independence, Falls City; WOU VITA website: https://wou.edu/business-economics/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita/.
• CASH Oregon: info@Cashoregon.org; 503-243-7765; Portland, Beaverton, Gresham
• Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO); TAX@irco.org; 971-427-3993; Portland, Ontario       
• Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos; biec@Centrodspc.org">debbiec@Centrodspc.org; 503-982-0243; Woodburn        
• Latino Community Association; info@latinocommunityassociation.org;

541-382-4366; Bend, Redmond               

• Moneywise Oregon; dan@moneywiseoregon.org; 541-670-5054; Coos Bay, Roseburg

Salem, Ore. – Oregonians investing in the Cultural Tax Credit contributed more than $5.2 million to support arts, heritage and humanities nonprofits in 2024, the Oregon Cultural Trust announced today. The total, which represents a 3.2 percent increase over calendar year 2023, will fund grant awards to cultural organizations across the state this summer and continue to build the Cultural Trust’s permanent fund, now valued at $41.8 million.

“Oregonians continue to show up for culture in a big way!” said Cultural Trust Chair Sean Andries. “In a time when arts and cultural organizations across the country are facing challenges, it’s inspiring to see our communities step up and invest in the creative heartbeat of our state.

“The Cultural Tax Credit is an incredible tool that allows us to sustain and grow the vibrant arts, heritage and humanities that make Oregon unique,” Andries added. “This year’s donations will directly impact cultural nonprofits across the state, ensuring they can continue to create, preserve, educate and inspire. We’re building something lasting together, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead!"

The $5.2 million fundraising total represents 10,570 donations and 1,138 donors new to the Cultural Trust. It also includes $552,349 raised through an ongoing partnership with the Willamette Week Give!Guide.

One of the highlights of the 2024 campaign was the creation of the Cultural Ambassador Network, a group of dedicated and passionate individuals across Oregon who champion the work of arts, heritage and humanities nonprofits by promoting the Cultural Tax Credit to increase available grant funding.

More than half of the money raised will be distributed directly to Oregon’s nonprofit cultural community this summer; the remainder will grow the Cultural Trust permanent fund. Cultural Trust grants are distributed to the five Statewide Core Agency Partners – Oregon Arts Commission, Oregon Heritage Commission, the Oregon Historical Society, Oregon Humanities and the State Office of Historic Preservation – as well as to 45 County/Tribal Cultural Coalitions, who regrant the funds in their communities, and directly to cultural nonprofits via the Cultural Trust’s Cultural Development grants.

The 98 Cultural Development projects funded for FY2025 include:

• Advance Gender Equity in the Arts, Portland: $9,645

To support the residency of award-winning Black female playwright Reneé Flemings at Portland State University to workshop her new play “empty spaces.”

• Ashland Parks Foundation, Ashland: $21,143

To support the restoration, repair and upgrade of the historic Butler-Perozzi Fountain and site (terrace, stairs, light posts) in Lithia Park, Ashland. The fountain was given to the city in 1915 by two local businessman and has been the jewel of Lithia Park since that time.

• Corvallis Multicultural Literacy Center, Corvallis: $30,409

To support access to cultural exchange for immigrant, refugee and international communities in the Willamette Valley.

• Elkton Community Education Center, Elkton: $5,110

To increase access to high-quality arts education for rural youth and adults by creating a series of after-school and weekend classes with experienced arts educators.

• Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, Joseph: $34,713

To support Phase II of the Building Our Future capital campaign to expand the building and increase ADA access to the second-floor library and programs. The $1.6 million project will support the Center’s mission to advance access to the arts, heritage and the humanities by enabling JCAC to serve a greater number of residents and visitors, provide a wider variety of programs and further promote awareness and understanding of the legacy and culture of the Nez Perce.

• Linn County Lamb and Wool Association, Scio: $24,662

To support the preservation of the culturally historic 100-year-old ZCBJ Hall by replacing a failing roof while the building is still in good condition. The price of roofing goes up by about $8,000 a year according to quotes, which also adds expediency to the project.

• North Pole Studio, Portland: $19,358

To support a six-month printmaking residency for five North Pole Studio (NPS) artists with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities culminating in an exhibition, limited edition publication and run of fine art prints.

• The Museum at Warm Springs, Warm Springs: $25,899

To support “Tł’aawxmamiyai - For Everyone - The Knowledge from Long Ago” featuring Warm Springs’ and other Indigenous master artists as traditional arts workshop teachers and exhibitors, emerging Warm Springs artists as workshop participants and exhibitors, and young Warm Springs Tribal members as exhibitors in the 2024 Youth Art Show, as well as the non-Tribal public as Museum visitors.

• The National Neon Sign Museum, The Dalles: $19,644

To support the restoration and preservation of the historic 1921 C. W. Parker Jantzen Beach Carousel horses. In October of 2023, the Museum was unanimously selected by Restore Oregon to receive and restore the historic carousel. The team will work with classically trained woodworking artists to train and inspire a new generation of artisans to restore the 82 horses to their original glory.

• North Bend Public Library Foundation, North Bend: $34,421

To support capital improvements to the North Bend Public Library Children’s Room that will enhance its ability to provide a safe and welcoming library space in which to provide essential community services.

• Tananawit, Warm Springs: $16,858

To support the development and self-sufficiency of Tananawit and its Warm Springs artists by providing culturally specific art-focused business classes. Artists will complete a bootcamp program, as well as professional practices and artist statement sessions.

• Ten Fifteen Productions, Astoria: $10,186

To support efforts to convert an antiquated stage lighting system to a new, energy efficient LED system.

View the full list of FY2025 grant awards.

The contracted partners for the Cultural Trust’s 2024 fundraising campaign were Watson Creative of Portland and Turell Group of Eugene.

The comparison removes a one-time bequest of $369,145 received in calendar year 2023.

# # #

The Oregon Cultural Trust was established by the Oregon Legislature in 2001 as a unique means to reward Oregonians who invest in culture. Oregonians who donate to a cultural nonprofit and then make a matching gift to the Cultural Trust receive a 100% state tax credit for their gift to the Trust.

Winter weather forced the closure Sunday night of a 33-mile stretch of OR 58, between Oakridge in the west and Crescent Lake in the East. ODOT crews report spinouts, trees down and snowy conditions and we do not have an estimate for when the road will reopen.Travelers should use caution Sunday night and Monday along the many Oregon roads experiencing stormy conditions. 

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Brenton Daniel Schaumann, died the evening of March 15, 2025. Schaumann was incarcerated at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI) in Umatilla and passed away at the facility. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Schaumann entered DOC custody on August 30, 2022, from Deschutes County and with an anticipated release date of February 2, 2045. Schaumann was 35 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of 12,000 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

TRCI is a multi-custody prison in Umatilla that houses approximately 1,800 adults in custody. TRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including institution and industrial laundry, mattress manufacturing, and sewing. Other institution work programs include reparation and cleaning of irrigation ditches, maintenance of local baseball fields, and work with local cities and the Hermiston School District. The facility provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, religious services, and behavioral health services. TRCI opened in 2000.

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Linn County, Ore. 14 Mar 2025- On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 8:25 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 20, at the intersection with Knox Butte Road, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Hyundai Santa Fe, operated by Loren Duane Soderholm (72) of Albany, failed to stop at the intersection and entered the path of a westbound Volvo XC9, operated by Jayden Loren Viars (19) of Menasha (WI), causing a side impact collision.

The operator of the Hyundai (Soderholm) was transported to an area hospital and later declared deceased.

The operator of the Volvo (Viars) suffered reported minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Albany Fire Department.

# # #

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.

Klamath County, Ore. 14 Mar 2025- On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 9:42 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus bicycle crash on Crater Lake Parkway (Highway 97 Business), at the intersection with Shasta Way, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound electric bicycle, operated by Douglas Duane Robinson (48) of Klamath Falls, entered the intersection against a red light and was struck by a southbound Subaru Outback, operated by Mary Jane Richardson (64) of Chiloquin.

The bicyclist (Robinson) was transported and later declared deceased at an area hospital.

The operator of the Subaru (Richardson) was not physically injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Klamath County Sheriff's Office, Klamath County Fire 1, 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.

SALEM, Ore. — The Committee for Family Forestlands will meet virtually on Wednesday, March 19 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. 

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Forest Resources Division update

• Reforestation report results

• LandMapper presentation

• Meet and greet – Forest Resources Division Chief

• Board of Forestry update

• Legislative update

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. 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 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member committee researches policies that affect family forests, natural resources and forestry benefits. Based on its findings, the committee recommends actions to the Oregon Board of Forestry and the State Forester. View more information on the CFF webpage.

Released By:  Lt. Bryan Husband

Release Date:  March 14th, 2025

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, with the assistance of Republic Services, will be providing a free shred event tomorrow, 03/15/25, 10am-12pm, at our main office in Bend, 63333 Hwy 20 West. This information can also be located on the DCSO website (sheriff.deschutes.org) under the Community/Public Notices tab.

This is a residential free shred event and is not intended for business/commercial shredding. We can accept paper clips and staples but cannot take plastic bags or three ring binders. We are asking that people limit the number of documents to be shredded to no more than four boxes. If you have more than four boxes of material to be shredded, we are asking that you contact Republic Services at 541-352-2263 to determine how to dispose of your items.

 
Medications accepted are prescription, patches, ointments, over the counter, vitamins, samples, and medications for pets.

NO SHARPS, THERMOMETERS, INHALERS, ETC.
 
This event also provides an opportunity for flag disposal. If anyone has an old tattered American flag, they would like properly disposed of it can be done at these events.  
Food donations are also accepted during the event, which will go to a local foodbank.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with five K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff Kent van der Kamp, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Jordan Holterback.

Jordan Holterback, age 14, is a child who went missing from Newberg on March 8. He was found March 13.

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

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

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SALEM, Oregon— Oregon State Parks experienced its busiest day-use year in history last year with more than 53.85 million estimated visits, outpacing the previous record in 2021 by about 200,000 visits.

Day-use visits increased overall by more than 3 percent last year due to visitors seeking out coastal parks in greater numbers. Other regions saw slight decreases.

Visitors also logged 2.83 million camper nights, which is down slightly due in part to construction closures at popular state parks including Beverly Beach, Bullards Beach and Nehalem Bay state parks.

The record number of day-use visits follows several other record-breaking years at Oregon State Parks. The rise in popularity does have an impact, including an increase in costs and wear and tear on an aging park system.

• One busy park needs nearly a semi-truck load of toilet paper per year for visitors.
• More than one third of restroom facilities are 50 years old or older, which require more care and maintenance with higher use. The cost to replace a restroom/shower building is now more than $1 million each.
• Parks serve as many as 17,000 campers per night in the busy season, which means moving a city roughly the size of Canby in and out of campgrounds almost daily.

At the same time, the rising cost of operations and maintenance have outpaced revenue by more than 30%. Oregon State Parks increased visitor fees this year and will continue to look at fees over the next two years to help balance the budget.

“Raising fees is not a long-term solution. We need to talk about what Oregonians want for the future of Oregon State Parks and how do we, as a state, make sure they’re sustainably funded for current and future generations” said Director Lisa Sumption.

Oregon State Parks does not receive general fund tax dollars for operations. The system is funded by recreational vehicle fees, the state lottery and revenue earned by serving visitors.

The increased visitation also underscores the need for rangers and support staff statewide. Last month, Oregon State Parks started its 2025 seasonal recruitment to hire more than 200 seasonal rangers and ranger assistants with the goal of filling all those roles this year.

Rangers and support staff work hard to keep the parks clean and safe while providing educational and recreational opportunities.

Visitors can help reduce the impact at their favorite parks by following park rules, staying on trail and leaving no trace. They might also consider visiting some of the hidden gems in the park system to find a new favorite place to explore.

The overnight camping figure is derived by taking the total number occupied sites and applying a multiplier to estimate the number of camper nights. The day-use figure is derived by taking car counts and applying a multiplier to estimate the number of visits. Car counters sometimes require maintenance and replacement, which can impact individual numbers. The overall results are OPRD’s best estimate for tracking trends over time.

Salem, OR - People around Oregon and the world now have free access to search over one million digitized photographs, letters, documents, and more from around the Pacific Northwest. These historic and cultural materials are available in Northwest Digital Heritage, a website that searches the collections of over 300 regional libraries, museums, and cultural heritage organizations.
 

Northwest Digital Heritage is an online search portal that gathers records from the online collections of libraries, museums, universities, historical societies, and other organizations in Oregon, Washington and Idaho. The site was created in 2021 through a partnership between the Oregon Heritage Commission, State Library of Oregon, and Washington State Library.
 

Items available through Northwest Digital Heritage span topics, from football and women’s suffrage to Tribal treaties, Black history and culture, Crater Lake, and much more. The content has proven valuable to educators and students doing classroom projects, genealogists researching family connections, scholarly researchers, historians, cultural heritage organizations making exhibits, and other lifelong learners.
 

The over one million materials include over 60,000 photos from Oregon State Archives’ Oregon Scenic Images Collection, 20,000 items from the Oregon Historical Society Research Library, 5,000 records from the Harney County Library, 13,000 images from the Salem Public Library, and nearly 2,000 materials from the Five Oaks Museum in Washington County.
 

The collections in Northwest Digital Heritage are also included in the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA), which helps bring this unique and local Northwest content to a national audience. More than 5,000 institutions throughout the nation have contributed over 50 million records to the DPLA to date.
 

“Being able to search one million records for primary sources documenting the human experience in the Pacific Northwest is an incredible opportunity for those interested in history,” says Katie Henry, Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator. “The three Northwest Digital Heritage partners know these are only a fraction of cultural materials held by hundreds of organizations across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. We look forward to working with existing and new partners to continue growing this incredible resource.”
 

In addition to helping make this resource available, the Oregon Heritage Commission, State Library of Oregon, and Washington State Library assist heritage organizations across the Pacific Northwest. Such assistance includes:

• Training, resources, information, and guidance on digitizing and making collections accessible online;

• Grants and funding opportunities; and

• Hosting organizations’ online collections.

Northwest Digital Heritage is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the State Library of Oregon and Washington State Library. To learn more visit https://www.northwestdigitalheritage.org.

Salem, Ore. – It’s time to check your tickets - Oregon’s annual Raffle numbers have been drawn.

Winning $1 Million Top Prize Number: 073672

Prizes for the Raffle include:

• $1 million top prize
• 300 prizes of $500
• 1,500 prizes of $100

To check the winning Raffle numbers for all 1,801 prizes, players can use the Lottery’s mobile app, go to www.oregonlottery.org, or visit a participating Oregon Lottery retail location.

The $500 and $100 prize winners can claim their prizes at any Oregon Lottery retail location. In addition, players can claim their prize by mail – visit oregonlottery.org/about/claim-prizes for instructions. The $1 million Raffle prize winner will need to make an appointment with the Oregon Lottery office in Salem or Wilsonville. For assistance, call 1-800-766-6789.

The Raffle offers the best odds of any Oregon Lottery game of winning $1 million – 1 in 250,000. Overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 138.8. The Oregon Lottery’s Raffle game went on sale December 29, 2024 with 250,000 tickets available, and all tickets were sold out by March 7, 2025.

The Oregon Lottery reminds players to always sign the back of their Lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

JOHN DAY, Oregon— Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site Interpretive Center will open its doors during the week of spring break before reopening for the full season.

The Interpretive Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 24 and March 27-30. The Kam Wah Chung building and museum will remain closed due to nearby construction. 

Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the home and businesses of two Chinese immigrants, Ing "Doc" Hay and Lung On. For more than 60 years the building was a social, medical and religious center for Oregon's Chinese community and the region.

“While visitors might not be able to experience the museum itself this spring break, they can learn about this incredible heritage site through exhibits at the Interpretive Center,” said OPRD Eastern District Manager Kirk Barham.

The center will also host information about the new visitor center, which is slated to break ground in Spring 2026. The Kam Wah Chung Interpretive Center is at 125 NW Canton Street in John Day. For more information visit the park webpage or call 541-575-2800.

Portland, OR — The Oregon Historical Society (OHS) is delighted to announce the 2025 Oregon History Maker honorees. First celebrated in 2009, the annual Oregon History Makers Awards & Dinner recognizes contemporary individuals and organizations that are positively shaping the history, culture, and landscape of Oregon. The event also supports the Oregon Historical Society’s important work to collect, preserve, and interpret Oregon’s past.

The 2025 Oregon History Makers are:

Mike and Sue Hollern

Few have contributed more energy and talent to making Central Oregon thrive than Mike and Sue Hollern. As chair of Brooks Resources, Mike Hollern was instrumental in developing Black Butte Ranch, Awbrey Butte, Mt. Bachelor Village Resort, the OSU Cascades Campus, and even the famous Bend roundabouts. Sue Hollern has dedicated her time to growing Central Oregon arts, culture, and social services, co-founding the nonprofit Art in Public Places and lending her leadership and expertise to causes and organizations such as Cascade Child & Family Center, SMART, Family Access Network, and the Oregon Community Foundation.

Tony Hopson, Sr.

Tony Hopson, Sr. founded Self Enhancement Inc. (SEI) in 1981, and over the course of four decades, grew it from a youth summer program to one of the most respected human service organizations in Oregon. SEI now supports over 17,000 youth and families per year with “wraparound” services, which improve every aspect of a student’s life, from their home environment, family support, school experience, and opportunities outside of school. Hopson is part of the founding board of the 1803 Fund and was instrumental in securing its initial $400 million investment with the purpose of rebuilding and strengthening the historic Black community in north and northeast Portland.

Patricia “Pat” Reser

A lifelong learner and teacher, Patricia “Pat” Reser has always found ways to make a difference, whether teaching students with special needs, training humanitarian workers, or leading boards and initiatives. Reser oversees one of the state’s most respected companies, Reser’s Fine Foods, as board chair, as well as the Reser Family Foundation, which she created to support Oregon nonprofits. Reser’s philanthropy and leadership at Oregon State University (OSU) was instrumental to the university’s growth and success, and her passion for the transformative power of the arts led to the creation of flourishing performing arts centers in downtown Beaverton and OSU’s campus in Corvallis.

Jordan Schnitzer

As the owner of one of the world’s most notable art collections, Jordan Schnitzer was dubbed “The People’s Collector” by Artnet for his passion for sharing art with audiences across the globe. As the president and CEO of Schnitzer Properties, Schnitzer grew his family commercial real estate company into one of the Top 10 private real estate owners in the Western United States. A local business leader who still lives and works in his hometown, Schnitzer demonstrates his dedication to Portland every day through his business, civic, and philanthropic endeavors.

“For 16 years, the Oregon Historical Society has celebrated Oregon’s living leaders, highlighting individuals and businesses who work tirelessly to make our state, and our world, a better place,” said OHS Boyle Family Executive Director Kerry Tymchuk. “This year’s honorees all exemplify the best of what our state has to offer, and the OHS Board of Trustees will be delighted to present Mike and Sue Hollern, Tony Hopson, Sr., Pat Reser, and Jordan Schnitzer with the Oregon History Makers Award this year.”

The Oregon Historical Society will celebrate the 2025 Oregon History Makers Awards & Dinner on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the Portland Art Museum. Table sponsorships and individual tickets are available. For more information, please visit ohs.org/historymakers. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ally Huffman at 503.306.5226 or ally.huffman@ohs.org.

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.

Oregon’s K-12 public schools will receive a record $76.8 million from the Common School Fund in 2025, state officials announced today.

“Across the country, school districts are facing budget shortages caused by the expiration of federal pandemic relief dollars, declining enrollment, increasing costs due to inflation, and many other factors,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “Here in Oregon, we are lucky to have the Common School Fund – a critical and reliable resource in our shared goal to give students the best shot to succeed.”

Every one of Oregon’s 197 school districts receives money from the Common School Fund, which has supported public education since statehood, every year. How much each district receives depends on the number of students served. Portland Public Schools, the state’s largest district, will receive $6.6 million in 2025. Redmond School District will receive $974,288. Coos Bay School District will receive $382,092.

The average 2025 distribution is $389,607. Bethel School District in Eugene, with about 5,000 students, will receive $806,193 in 2025. See how much every Oregon school district will receive from the Common School Fund in 2025 (PDF). 

“The Common School Fund is consistent and can be used for anything, from keeping the lights on to providing instruction,” said Benjamin Dodds, teacher at Bethel School District’s Willamette High School. “That’s what makes it such a helpful funding source for schools across Oregon.”

The Common School Fund has contributed to schools since Oregon became a state, when the federal government granted nearly 3.4 million acres "for the use of schools." The State Land Board – Oregon’s Governor, Secretary of State, and State Treasurer – was established to oversee these school lands dedicated to generating revenue for the Common School Fund.

Valued at $2.38 billion as of February 2025, the Common School Fund is managed by the Oregon State Treasury, with oversight from the Oregon Investment Council. The Fund achieved a 9.7 percent return in 2024.
 

Annually, 3.5 percent of the Fund is distributed to schools. The 2025 distribution of $76.6 million is $2.4 million more than the 2024 distribution of $74.2 million and $4.4 million more than the 2023 distribution of $72.2 million.

“Schools are the foundation of healthy families and communities,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. “We’re committed to safeguarding the Common School Fund and ensuring that our responsible investment strategies continue to generate returns that put more educators, counselors and other staff in front of students across Oregon.”
 

Today, about 681,000 acres of school lands in all 36 Oregon counties are managed by the Department of State Lands on behalf of the State Land Board. Ranchers and farmers, Tribal governments, businesses, and more work with DSL to lease and buy lands, plan for future community needs, and keep lands healthy. School lands generated $7.2 million in revenue during fiscal year 2024.
 

“This is a historic investment and a smart one,” said Secretary of State Tobias Read. “Oregonians value education because we know our tomorrow depends on the students and teachers in classrooms today. We must continue to manage these lands wisely so Oregonians can keep benefitting from this valuable resource for generations to come.”
 

About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State Tobias Read, and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands and resources that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.

March 13, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA urges people to get vaccinated during ongoing significant influenza activity

PORTLAND, Ore.— The state’s 2024-2025 influenza season is the worst since Oregon Health Authority began tracking the virus 15 years ago, with people continuing to be hospitalized at a time of the year when statewide influenza activity traditionally begins winding down, health officials say.  

That means it’s still not too late for people to get the influenza vaccine, particularly as Oregon could see a late-season uptick in flu incidence of the virus as it has in recent years. 

“This has been a year of very high flu activity,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “We want to remind people that there is still a lot of flu out there and to get their flu shots. Spread of flu can be unpredictable, and we often see another peak late in winter.”    

Influenza is a contagious, respiratory tract infection caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms of influenza may include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy and runny nose, muscle aches, headache and fatigue. Influenza can cause mild to severe illness, including hospitalization and death.   

OHA releases weekly information on the flu season in FluBites, and information can also be found on Oregon’s Respiratory Virus Data dashboard. 

OHA data show that fewer people are getting flu shots. Vaccinations are down 4% from last year and it has been steadily dropping since 2022. “We would like 100% of people to be vaccinated to prevent the risk of severe disease, but we’ve seen the vaccination rate slip,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division. 

Certain groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant people and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk for serious complications from influenza. The hospitalization rate is highest for people 65 and older.  

In recent years, the agency has bolstered its tracking of communicable diseases, including influenza, with the development and modernization of data reporting tools, such as an interactive, web-based dashboard that visualizes data on COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The dashboard’s data are organized by community transmission, hospitalizations, hospital capacity, deaths and vaccination. 

Increasing awareness and education about primary prevention, public health risks and preventive health services are among actions OHA is taking as part of its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. The plan further supports expanding access to vaccines and other health resources for children, parents and families in all communities in Oregon.  

To learn more about getting vaccinated against the flu, click here for English and click here for Spanish.  

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OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Spring Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, March 22 through Sunday, March 30.

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers and rangers will be stationed at 14 sites along the Oregon Coast to help visitors spot whales and their calves and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily March 22-30. The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast.  Cape Foulweather will not be included this year because it is closed due to construction.

“Spring is a great time for whale watching because the gray whales are usually closer to shore on their return trip, typically around a mile or so out, and they might have calves in tow,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.

An estimated 19,260 gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores from late winter through June as part of their annual migration back to Alaska.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales in 2023. Since then, the estimated population has increased by roughly 30% from 14,530 in 2023 to 19,260 last year, according to NOAA. The numbers are on the rise overall, but the calf count is still low as the population continues to rebound.

Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and rangers.

A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online on the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 22-30. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and keeping an eye on the surf at all times. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit stateparks.oregon.gov.

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Spring Whale Watch on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch.

Media Resources: photos available at this link.

JOHN DAY, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting an open house 4 to 6 p.m. March 19 to share information about the Kam Wah Chung Visitor Center project, which is slated to break ground in spring 2026.

OPRD is finalizing construction documents for the new visitor center and will put the project out for bid this fall. Construction will start as soon as spring 2026.

You’re invited to learn more about the project during an open house 4 to 6 p.m. March 19 at the Kam Wah Chung Interpretative Center, 125 NW Canton Street in John Day.

“The new visitor center will enhance the visitor experience, help preserve the museum collection and provide additional education space,” said Eastern District Manager Kirk Barham.

The new visitor center is anticipated to include:

• Expanded interpretive areas 
• Classroom which may double as a community meeting space
• Restrooms
• Collection processing and archive storage
• Office space for staff

The visitor’s center will open as soon as spring 2028. OPRD will post information about the project and visitor impacts on the park webpage and GO Bond page.

Salem, OR – Today, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) released details of its safety action plan for oversight of providers who serve older adults and people with disabilities who live in facilities and adult foster homes.

The plan follows the preliminary report from a third-party consultant hired to conduct an external assessment of state oversight of licensed long-term care providers.

“Safety is essential to the well-being of the people we serve and is our program’s number one priority,” said Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, Ph.D., director of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD). “A&M’s independent perspective is valuable as we work to better meet people’s needs and prepare to keep pace with demand in coming decades.”

Consultant Alvarez and Marsal (A&M) issued a preliminary report on its findings and recommendations as part of a contract with ODHS to conduct an external assessment of state oversight of licensed long-term care providers. The external consultant began its work at Governor Tina Kotek’s direction following a report released in April 2024 by the Oregon Long-Term Care Ombudsman’s office.

This is all part of the agency’s proactive work to reform the licensing and oversight unit to better align resources with state and federal requirements and strengthen operations.

In 2024, ODHS developed a short- and long-term safety action plan.  ODHS added to that plan with additional 30-, 60- and 90-day goals that build upon this work and align with specific A&M recommendations. Some of these improvements are: 

Improve protocol for responding to serious safety violations

• Action plan: In 30 days update the protocol for an Immediate Jeopardy finding in facilities and adult foster homes with serious safety breaches.

• Already underway: Twice-a-week huddles added in 2024 to give staff additional guidance in responding to serious safety incidents.
   

Clarify Letters of Agreement policy

• Action plan: Update the policy in 30 days for agreements that address provider performance issues that could result in regulatory action. In 60 days, provide training and update the Compliance Framework Guide. In 90 days, convene a Rules Advisory Committee to update Oregon Administrative Rules.

• Already underway: In 2024, APD developed more detailed manager guidance on when a Letter of Agreement would be allowed.
   

Add workshops on statutory requirements

• Action plan: Compile in 30 days a list of statutes by license type to serve as a training tool. In 60 days, managers will complete a refresher review. In 90 days, staff will renew training.

• Already underway: APD leadership identified areas of statute in 2024 to provide additional guidance for managers. 
   

Improve morale and add support for managers

• Action plan: Identify resources within 30 days to develop an employee engagement program. In 60 days, finalize the plan.

• Already underway: Managers in February 2025 began developing staff support strategies in response to an employee survey and feedback.  
   

Address resource shortages in the unit

• Action plan: In 60 days, use results of a second A&M analysis underway to evaluate distribution of resources. 

• Already underway: APD’s budget request included in the Governor's Recommended Budget​ calls for 19​ ​new positions. In 2024,  APD issued a Request for Application for contractors to provide temporary staffing.

When complete by June 2025, A&M’s full assessment will include an evaluation of resources needed to meet current and future demand. ODHS hired A&M through a competitive Request for Proposal process.

Updates on APD’s safety initiatives are provided on the ODHS website.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Jordan Holterback, age 14, a child in foster care who went missing from Newberg on March 8. Jordan is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Jordan and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see him.

Jordan is known to frequent Yamhill County, Marion County, the Portland Metro Area and Seaside.

Name: Jordan Holterback
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: Aug. 6, 2010
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 143 pounds
Hair: Light brown
Eye color: Brown
Other identifying information: Jordan has braces, a nose ring and pierced ears.
Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office case #25-005567
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2045217

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

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

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Current date: March 12th, 2025

Date of incident: March 11th, 2025

Case #: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office – 25-12873

Arrested:

Wally John Wise, 39-year-old Bend resident

Deserae Dawn Barclay, 45-year-old Bend resident

Charges:

Wise - PCS Methamphetamine – Felony, DCS Methamphetamine – Felony, Felon in Possession of a firearm - Felony

Barclay - PCS Methamphetamine – Felony, DCS Methamphetamine - Felony

Press Release Information:

On March 11th, 2025, at approximately 1030 AM, the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team, in collaboration with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, arrested Wally Wise and Deserae Barclay for possession and delivery of methamphetamine.  During the investigation, Wally Wise was also found to be in possession of a handgun.

On March 11th, 2025, Drug Agents and Deschutes County Sheriff Deputies conducted a surveillance operation involving the illegal possession and distribution of illegal narcotics.  Drug Agents identified a vehicle, a purple 2017 Kia Optima, believed to be transporting illegal narcotics.  Drug Agents identified the driver as Wally Wise and initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle in the area of Kiowa Dr./ Old Bend Redmond Hwy.  Drug Detection K9, Keira, and her handler, responded to the traffic stop and Keira alerted to the odor of drugs in the vehicle.  Drug Agents applied for and were granted a search warrant for the vehicle.

During a search of the vehicle, Drug Agents located a large quantity of methamphetamine, a handgun, cash, and other drug related items.  The handgun was found in a backpack in the backseat with documents belonging to Wise.

Wally Wise and Deserae Barclay were both transported and lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail. 

CODE Detectives were assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office during this investigation.

The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and the following Central Oregon law enforcement agencies:  Bend Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Redmond Police Department,  Prineville Police Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Madras Police Department, Oregon State Police, Sunriver Police Department, Black Butte Police Department, United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Warm Springs Tribal Police Department, Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson County District Attorney’s, and the Oregon National Guard.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement task forces to disrupt or dismantle local, multi-state and international drug trafficking organizations.

Hermiston, OR – March 2025 – The Hermiston Lions Club is proud to host its annual Easter Egg Hunt for Kids Experiencing Disabilities on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Hermiston Riverfront Park. This special event is designed to provide an inclusive and enjoyable Easter celebration for children in the community who experience disabilities.
Thanks to the generosity of private donors in the name of the Hermiston Lions Club, this cherished tradition continues to grow each year. In 2024, the event welcomed 50 participants, and even more families are expected to attend this year.
“This Easter Egg Hunt is a heartwarming event that brings joy to children and families in our community,” said Bill Kuhn, event organizer. “It’s an opportunity for every child to participate in an Easter tradition in a supportive and accessible environment.”
The event will feature adapted egg hunts designed to accommodate children with various disabilities, ensuring a fun and rewarding experience for all participants. Families are encouraged to attend and enjoy a morning of community, celebration, and Easter fun!
For more information about the event, or to learn how you can support this initiative, please contact Bill Kuhn at WJK@kunlawoffices.com.
?? Join us for an unforgettable Easter celebration! ??

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Lion Neely McKay

Email: neely.mckay@hermistonsd.org

Mo’s Chowder Sale Pick-Up Day Set for March 13 in Hermiston – Proceeds Benefit OLSHF’s Charitable Programs

Hermiston, OR – March 2024 – The much-anticipated Mo’s Chowder Sale returns to Hermiston on Thursday, March 13th, as the official pick-up day for pre-ordered items. This beloved community event offers a chance to enjoy Mo’s famous clam chowder, fresh sourdough bread, Parmesan cheese butter, and homemade Marionberry cobbler—all while supporting a great cause.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) and its charitable programs, which provide critical vision and hearing healthcare services to individuals in need across Oregon.
“We’re excited to bring the flavors of the Oregon coast to Hermiston while supporting a cause that makes a real difference in people’s lives,” said Lion Neely McKay, event coordinator. “Every purchase helps fund vital programs that improve sight and hearing for those who need it most.”

Community members who placed pre-orders can pick up their delicious meals on March 13th. For more information about the event, please contact Lion Neely McKay at neely.mckay@hermistonsd.org.

Enjoy Great Food & Support a Great Cause!

(Portland, Ore.) — The Trump administration's reckless decision to slash the U.S. Department of Education's workforce by nearly 50% is a direct attack on Oregon's healthcare system and workforce. These drastic cuts will undermine education and training for nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and a wide range of other healthcare professionals, saddle future health workers with crushing debt, and block efforts to build a stronger, more diverse healthcare workforce in Oregon. This is not just an attack on education—it is an attack on the health and well-being of every Oregonian.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) calls on the Trump administration to immediately reverse these irresponsible and dangerous cuts. Congress and the public must oppose these cuts and protect programs that support healthcare education and student aid. We cannot afford to let Oregon's healthcare system be collateral damage in Trump’s reckless political agenda. Investing in healthcare education is investing in every Oregonians' health and safety.

Oregon’s healthcare education programs are already stretched beyond capacity. Nursing programs, for example, are only able to accept 1 in 4 qualified applicants and need a 70% increase in enrollment, about 1,000 additional graduates per year, to meet the state’s needs, according to the Oregon Employment Department (2024). Federal cuts will choke off critical support for all healthcare education programs, stalling efforts to expand capacity and worsening Oregon’s dangerous healthcare workforce shortage. 

The Department of Education plays a vital role in overseeing and distributing federal funding to higher education institutions, including grants that support programs for nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and other healthcare professionals. Cuts to staffing and threats to dismantle the department will delay processing of federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, subsidized loans, and support for low-income students pursuing nursing and medical degrees. This will block access to education and contribute to Oregon's growing shortage of healthcare professionals.

Additionally, federal programs supporting Graduate Medical Education (GME), though primarily funded through Medicare, rely on federal student loans to support medical residents and fellows. Disruptions to federal loan processing due to Education Department staffing cuts will make it harder for medical graduates to afford or complete residencies, particularly in rural Oregon where care access is already fragile.

According to a recent article in the Washington Post (2025), the administration’s proposal to eliminate Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) represents an attack on healthcare workers who dedicate their careers to public service. Oregon nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, and other health professionals who serve in nonprofits, public hospitals, and rural clinics rely on PSLF to make education affordable. Eliminating PSLF will leave thousands of Oregon healthcare workers drowning in debt, reducing incentives to work in public or rural sectors and worsening care shortages. The Department of Education oversees $1.6 trillion in federal student loan debt, according to the Education Data Initiative (2024). Gutting the workforce responsible for managing these loans will result in processing delays, errors, and confusion, adding stress and financial insecurity for Oregon’s future healthcare professionals.

Oregon hospitals and clinics are already facing a staffing disaster. A 2023 survey by ONA found that 99% of Oregon healthcare professionals report that their units are sometimes or never adequately staffed. The Department of Education cuts threaten to disrupt the pipeline of future healthcare workers by reducing funding and slowing down the processing of financial aid and education grants. This will make it harder for students to access education programs and complete their training, especially for nurse practitioners and physicians who face higher educational costs and longer timelines to certification. This will, in turn, leave Oregon's healthcare facilities struggling to fill vacancies. Fewer new health professionals entering the workforce means existing staff will continue to shoulder unsustainable workloads, increasing burnout and turnover. 

This is not just a policy choice; it’s a choice to risk patient lives. When healthcare units are short-staffed, patients suffer. The same survey found that 78% of respondents reported delayed response times to patient calls, 76% reported medication delays, and 71% reported delays in pain management. Trump's education cuts will only make these delays worse, putting Oregon patients' health and safety at even greater risk.

This is a direct assault on Oregon’s healthcare system and on every healthcare worker striving to protect our communities. Slashing the Department of Education isn't cutting red tape—it's cutting the lifeline for Oregon's patients and healthcare workforce. Oregon health professionals are standing up and saying: enough is enough. 

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Wasco County, Ore. 12 Mar 2025- On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 1:43 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 216, near milepost 23, in Wasco County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Ford F150, operated by Samuel Timothy Crafard (72) of Maupin, left the roadway into the westbound ditch, struck a culvert, and flipped onto its roof. 

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

A passenger of the Ford, Carol Ann Workman (78) of Maupin, suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Juniper Flat Rural Fire District, Wasco County Sheriff's Office, 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.

Multnomah County, Ore. 12 Mar 2025- On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 8:01 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 127, near milepost 4, in Multnomah County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Subaru WRX, operated by Douglas Robert Huard (68) of Portland, was negotiating a curve when it entered the northbound lane and struck a Kia Sportage, operated by Cindy Ann Crandall (67) of St Helens, sending the KIA over the guardrail and down an embankment. A northbound Toyota Corolla, operated by Derek Wilbert Richman (55) of Beaverton, was behind the Kia and struck debris from the primary crash.

The operator of the Subaru (Huard) was reportedly seriously injured and transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the KIA (Crandall) was declared deceased at the scene. A passenger in the KIA, a male juvenile (2), was reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Toyota (Richman) was reportedly uninjured.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Portland Police Bureau, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, 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.

Lincoln County, Ore. 12 Mar 2025- On Monday, March 10, 2025, at 4:41 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 34, near milepost 27, in Lincoln County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Honda Civic, operated by Brandy Amber Damm-Winningham (42) of Corvallis, lost control, left the roadway and rolled approximately 300 feet down a steep embankment. The operated was ejected from the vehicle during the roll event.

The operator of the Honda (Damm-Winningham), who was not believed to be wearing a seatbelt, was declared deceased at the scene.

A passenger in the Honda, Becky Jean Damm (62) of Corvallis, suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Benton County Sheriff's Office, Alsea Fire Department, Central Lincoln Fire Department, and Yachats Fire Department. 

# # #

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.

Clackams County, Ore. 12 Mar 2025- On Monday, March 3, 2025, at 4:50 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 44, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Chevrolet Malibu, operated by Selena Mae Brust (27) of Portland, left the roadway for unknown reasons and struck a rock before rolling off the northern side of the roadway. The vehicle had been reported as stolen prior to the collision to the Gresham Police Department.

The operator of the vehicle (Brust) was transported to an area hospital for evaluation before being lodged at the Clackamas County Jail for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangerment, and Manslaughter II. 

A passenger in the vehicle, Nathan Andrew Bergstrom (45) of Beaverton, was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately seven hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Hoodland Fire, 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.

BEND, Ore. — March 11, 2025 – On the afternoon of March 11, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) responded to a call about two skiers stranded on South Sister—one of them injured. Attempts to contact the skiers by phone were unsuccessful, so SAR teams began coordinating a rescue.

By 2:38 p.m., the Sheriff's Office SAR Incident Management Team was activated to help plan the mission. At 4:51 p.m., two SAR members were flown to the mountain by a AirLink helicopter, and by 5:12 p.m., they had spotted the skiers and were searching for a place to land.

SAR members had reached the skiers, both men (ages 19 & 20) from Salt Lake City, UT. Moments later, the Oregon Army National Guard HH-60 Black Hawk helicopter arrived overhead. The Army National Guard helicopter successfully picked up both the injured skier and their companion and transported them to St. Charles Medical Center in Bend.

Meanwhile, the two rescueing SAR members remained near the south edge of the Lewis Glacier. They skied down South Sister to another SAR team on snowmobiles who delivered back to Dutchman Sno-Park.

This rescue was a team effort, and we appreciate the help from AirLink and the Oregon Army National Guard in getting these skiers to safety.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Tuesday, March 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. (PT). This public meeting will be conducted via teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/boardagenda_3_25_2025.pdf

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy, oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years. The Board meets at least quarterly. As active members of their communities, Board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI’s mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

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Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 6 at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.

The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations. 

Corvallis, Ore., March 13, 2025 – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Siuslaw National Forest remind visitors to the Oregon coast that it is plover nesting season ­— beachgoers can help recovery efforts for the threatened western snowy plover March 15 to Sept. 15.

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

Recreation restrictions occur in designated plover management areas: stretches of beach along the coastline where plovers nest or might nest. These areas combined make up about 40 miles of Oregon's 362 miles of shoreline.

Seasonal recreation restrictions have helped protect these small birds that nest on open sand along Oregon’s beaches. Nests, and especially chicks, are well-camouflaged. During the nesting season, human disturbances can flush adult plovers away from their nests as they attempt to defend their young. Left alone too long, or too often, eggs or chicks can die from exposure, predators or people.

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

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

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

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed western snowy plovers as a threatened species in 1993, when officials counted only 45 breeding adults. The numbers of breeding adults have steadily increased since then due to ongoing efforts. Officials counted 440 during the breeding season survey in 2024.

“We appreciate visitors' support in keeping these shorebirds safe in the combined 40 miles of protected area along the coast. We invite visitors to enjoy permitted recreation in those areas or to recreate without seasonal restrictions on the hundreds of miles of beaches not designated as plover nesting areas,” said Laurel Hillmann, ocean shore specialist for Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

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

New plover activity   

Plovers have been found nesting in new or historical nesting sites. For example, plover nests have been identified at the Sand Lake Recreation Area, near the lake’s inlet, every year the last few years. Beachgoers can protect these birds by recreating on the wet sand areas, avoiding roped off nesting areas, observing trail kiosks and signs, packing all trash out and keeping dogs on leash.

Background on plover protections

Several land managers oversee beach activity for plover protection, primarily the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFW).

Habitat loss from invasive plants — as well as human disturbances, including litter and discarded food scraps that attract predators — have contributed to the birds’ decline. The Oregon Dunes Restoration Collaborative, saveoregondunes.org, is working with land managers on a restoration strategy and to raise public awareness about the need to restore the dunes ecosystem for western snowy plovers, rare plants and animals and the unique recreation opportunities offered here.

Editors: photos are available at this link.

Salem, OR—Taxpayers who want to check the status of their Oregon state income tax refund will find more information available this year when they use the Department of Revenue’s Where’s My Refund? tool.

For the 2025 tax season, Where’s My Refund? has been upgraded to provide:

• Additional detail about refund status. 
• Added functionality to see when the agency is requesting additional information to complete processing a return. 
• Website enhancements for improved customer experience.

To have the benefit of the enhancements, however, taxpayers need to be 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 can still use the Where’s My Refund? tool without being signed into Revenue Online account, 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.

Most taxpayers can expect to receive their refunds within two weeks of the date their return is filed. Some returns, however, require additional information and review and can take up to 20 weeks before a refund is issued. The Where’s My Refund? tool can help taxpayers identify if more information is needed to complete processing their return and, in most cases, provide that information electronically through Revenue Online.

Through March 11, the Oregon Department of Revenue has received and processed nearly 850,000 returns and has issued more than 640,000 refunds. That leaves a little more than 60 percent of the expected 2.2 million Oregon income tax returns to be filed in the final 34 days before the April 15 deadline.

"If you haven't filed your taxes yet, take care of them this month and beat the April rush," said Megan Denison, administrator of DOR's Personal Tax and Compliance Division.

Besides the high volume of returns filed at the end of tax season, there are other common things that can make it take longer for Oregonians to get their refunds.

Five common reasons refunds take longer and what to do about it.

• Filing a paper return. Paper returns take longer to process and, as a result, it takes longer to issue related refunds. File electronically instead.
• Filing electronically and requesting to receive a refund via a check takes longer. Request direct deposit instead.
• Filing more than once. Sending a duplicate paper return through the mail after e-filing will a delay a refund. Taxpayers should file just once unless they need to amend their return to make changes.
• Refunds for taxpayers that are new to filing returns may be delayed so we can verify your identity. Taxpayers who receive a letter requesting identity verification are urged to respond promptly through Revenue Online to speed the processing of their return.
• Refunds can also be delayed when errors are identified on returns. Taxpayers who receive a letter requesting additional information are urged to respond promptly through Revenue Online to speed the processing of their return.

Taxpayers who are not logged into Revenue Online and want to check the status of their refund with the Where’s My Refund? tool on Revenue Online will need their:

• Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN);
• Filing status; and
• The exact refund amount shown on:
  • Line 47 of their Form OR-40, or
  • Line 72 of their Form OR-40-N, or
  • Line 71 of their Form OR-40-P

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.

Filing electronically is the fastest way for taxpayers to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.

All Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own returns in 2024 can file electronically at no cost using one of the free file options that can be found on the Department of Revenue website.

Taxpayers can check the status of their federal tax refunds on the IRS website.

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APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.

To view the Applicant Review Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Committee Chair Appointment

3. Approve January 22, 2024, Meeting Minutes

4. Carl Biggs, DPSST No. 65857; Yamhill County Department of Community Justice

    Presented by Cindy Park

5. Lane Staley, DPSST No. 65900; DOC/ Columbia River Correctional Institution

    Presented by Cindy Park

6. Inquiry Closure Memos – Informational Only

7. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – April 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 11, 2025
 

Contact:
son@employ.or.gov">jack.h.patterson@employ.or.gov
 

Paid Leave Oregon Surpasses $1 Billion in Benefits Paid to Oregon Workers
 

March 11, 2025 (Salem, OR) — As of March 11, Paid Leave Oregon has delivered more than $1 billion in benefits to Oregon workers, marking a significant milestone in supporting people and families across the state. To date, over 150,000 people have received Paid Leave benefits.

"This milestone is a measure of the state's commitment to supporting Oregon's workforce," said David Gerstenfeld, Director of the Oregon Employment Department. "$1 billion in benefits demonstrates the significant impact this program has had, not only on employees and their families, but also on Oregon businesses and the broader economy. By providing financial security during critical times, Paid Leave Oregon helps employers retain workers, reduce turnover costs, and strengthen the economic stability of communities across the state." 

"Paid Leave Oregon makes our state healthier, happier, and more prosperous by ensuring people don't have to choose between their health, their families, and their paychecks," said Karen Madden Humelbaugh, Director of Paid Leave Oregon. "Reaching the $1 billion mark shows that we've built something stable and strong. Whether they are recovering from an illness, welcoming a new child, or caring for a loved one, Oregonians can count on Paid Leave Oregon to be there for them during life's most important moments." 

Paid Leave Oregon continues to be a national model for state-administered paid leave programs, ensuring equitable access to benefits for workers. The program is funded through contributions from employers and employees, ensuring a sustainable and robust support system for Oregonians who take paid leave. 

Every dollar goes to someone facing a serious health condition, caring for a family member, bonding with a new child, or dealing with the impacts of domestic violence, stalking, harassment, or sexual assault.

Since its launch in January 2023, Paid Leave has paid benefits to more than 150,000 Oregonians. Of the approved applications, 45% have been for medical leave, 28% for bonding with a new child, 14% to care for a family member with a serious health condition, 12% for leave due to pregnancy, and 1% for safe leave. 

Paid Leave Oregon continues to expand its outreach and services to ensure more workers and businesses understand and use the program when they need it. For more information, visit paidleave.oregon.gov.  

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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.

Oregon has received approval from the U.S Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) to extend the 10 day deadline for households to report food losses and request replacement benefits from the February 24, 2025, storm. The waiver allows 30 days to report food losses for households affected by the storm.

New deadline for SNAP replacement benefits

Households in the approved counties now have until March 26, 2025, to report food losses and ask for replacement benefits.

Approved Counties for the waiver:

People in the following counties can request SNAP replacement benefits by March 26, 2025:

• Benton
• Clackamas
• Clatsop
• Coos
• Deschutes
• Douglas
• Hood River
• Jackson
• Josephine
• Klamath
• Lane
• Lincoln
• Linn
• Marion
• Multnomah
• Polk
• Tillamook
• Washington

What about other counties?

If you live in a county not listed above, the regular 10 day rule applies. You must report food loss within 10 days and provide proof.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits:

You can submit a request to replace the SNAP benefits over the phone, in person, by email, by mail or your ONE online portal:

• Over the phone:

1-800-699-9075 or 711 (TTY)

• In person: (find a local office): Oregon.gov
• Mail: (must be received by the due date) ONE Customer Service Center

PO Box 14015 Salem, OR 97309

• Email: egon.Benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov">Oregon.Benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov

The information required to replace the SNAP benefits may be found in the form 347D found here: https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/de0349d.pdf

When does the waiver end?

The waiver to extend the reporting deadline will last until March 26, 2025. After that, requests for replacement will follow the normal 10 day rule.

About SNAP
SNAP helps low income households buy food. If you qualify, you get benefits that can be used to buy groceries at authorized stores. For more information or to request SNAP replacement benefits, contact your local office or visit the Oregon SNAP benefit website or call 800-699-9075.

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is funding the creation of 112 new affordable homes in Eugene and Portland. Some of these homes will be near affordable childcare, feature energy-efficient heat pumps and appliances, and provide permanent supportive services.

“As Oregon’s housing agency, boosting housing supply is directly connected to people’s livelihoods,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “Investing in the building of homes with innovative technology and services that make life easier for people who are struggling to make ends meet every month is what this collective work is all about. Whether it’s installing energy-efficient heat pumps to keep people warm in the winter and cool in the summer without soaring energy bills or providing working families with access to affordable childcare services and nearby recreational sites to support their well-being, these efforts make a meaningful impact.”

OHCS works with local partners like Cascade Housing Association (CHA) to fund affordable housing developments that help meet the needs of their communities. CHA is developing the River Road Apartments in Eugene with three full Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-certified units and 13 adaptable units. All 48 homes will include energy-efficient appliances and heat pumps. The development will be located less than a mile away from the Parkside Community Preschool, which offers affordable care and childcare services. It’s also close to several parks and recreational opportunities.

In Portland, 73Foster will create 64 new homes in a pedestrian-transit friendly area. Twenty-two of the homes will be dedicated as Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) units featuring tenancy support services and project-based rent assistance for households experiencing chronic homelessness. REACH Community Development is leading the project and will provide resident services and case management at the property. REACH plans to work with the Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon (APANO), El Programa Hispano Católico (EPHC), and Community Vision to support residents in the lease-up process and continue providing services after move-in.

Find more information about each affordable housing development in the Housing Stability Council meeting packet.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)

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

11 de marzo de 2025

El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios otorga fondos a mas de 100 viviendas a precio asequible que incluyen funciones de eficiencia energética y servicios de apoyo permanentes

SALEM, Ore. — El Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios (OHCS, por sus siglas en inglés) otorga fondos hacia la creación de 112 nuevas viviendas a precio asequible en Eugene y Portland. Algunas de estas viviendas estarán ubicadas cerca de cuidado de niños a precio económico, incluyen bombas de calor y electrodomésticos de eficiencia energética.

“Como la agencia de vivienda de Oregón, impulsar la creación de viviendas está directamente relacionado con las condiciones de vida de las personas,” dice la directora ejecutiva de OHCS, Andrea Bell. “Invertir en la construcción de viviendas con tecnología innovadora y servicios que ayudan a hacer la vida más fácil para las personas que luchan por llegar a fin de mes, es de lo que se trata este trabajo colectivo. Ya sea instalando bombas de calor de eficiencia energética para mantener a la gente cómoda en el invierno y fresca en verano sin que se disparen las facturas de la luz, o facilitando a las familias el acceso a servicios de guardería económicos y a espacios recreativos que favorezcan su bienestar, estos esfuerzos tienen un impacto significativo.”

La agencia trabaja con socios locales como Cascade Housing Association (CHA, por sus siglas en inglés) para financiar la construcción de viviendas a precio asequible que ayuden a satisfacer las necesidades de sus comunidades. CHA está construyendo los apartamentos River Road en Eugene, con tres unidades completas certificadas por la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades y 13 unidades adaptables. Las 48 viviendas incluirán electrodomésticos y bombas de calor de bajo consumo de electricidad. El desarrollo se encuentra a menos de una milla de distancia de Comunidad Parkside Preescolar que ofrece servicios de atención y cuidado de niños a precio económico. También está cerca de varios parques y oportunidades recreativas.

En Portland, 73Foster creará 64 nuevas viviendas en una zona peatonal. 22 de las unidades serán viviendas con apoyo permanente y contaran con servicios de ayuda de arrendamiento asistencia para pago de alquiler específicamente para familias que sufren falta de vivienda crónica. REACH Community Development dirige el proyecto y se encargará de los servicios para los residentes y de la gestión de casos en la propiedad. REACH tiene previsto trabajar con la Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon, El Programa Hispano Católico y Community Vision para apoyar a los residentes en el proceso de arrendamiento y seguir prestando servicios después de la mudanza.

Más información sobre cada desarrollo de vivienda a precio asequible se encuentra en el paquete de la reunión del Consejo de Estabilidad de la Vivienda.

Acerca del Departamento de Vivienda y Servicios Comunitarios de Oregon (OHCS)   

OHCS es la agencia de financiación de viviendas de Oregón. La agencia estatal proporciona apoyo financiero y de programas para crear y preservar oportunidades de vivienda a precio asequible y de calidad para los habitantes de Oregón con ingresos bajos y moderados. OHCS administra programas que proporcionan estabilización de la vivienda. OHCS ofrece estos programas principalmente a través de subvenciones, contratos y acuerdos de préstamo con organizaciones locales y proveedores comunitarios. Para obtener más información, visite: oregon.gov/ohcs.

92% of ONA Members Reported Experiencing Workplace Violence Last Year

(Portland, Ore.) - Oregon healthcare workers and elected officials are partnering to protect patients and providers and reverse the disturbing rise in violence against healthcare workers by passing Oregon Senate Bill 537. The bill will better protect patients and providers in hospitals and home health by implementing proven strategies to prevent violence in healthcare, support victims, and increase transparency and accountability.

Healthcare workers injuries from workplace violence increased a shocking 181 percent in hospitals between 2007 and 2022 and 92 percent of ONA members reported experiencing workplace violence last year.

“For too long, we’ve allowed the people who care for us to become victims. It’s time to stand up for them and put a stop to this senseless violence,” said State Representative Travis Nelson, a chief sponsor of the bill and registered nurse. “As a registered nurse for more than two decades, I’ve been punched, kicked, spit on and abused more times than I can count—and nearly every nurse I know has similar stories. We can’t let this cycle of violence continue. Everyone deserves a safe workplace. This bill is a critical step towards protecting healthcare providers and their patients. By passing it, we send a clear message that our caregivers must be safe and supported—not attacked and abused.”

Oregon’s Healthcare Workers are in Danger.

Long shrugged off as ‘just part of the job’, attacks on healthcare workers include verbal and physical threats, stalking, sexual assaults, death threats, punches, kicks and other attacks that can leave workers with concussions, lacerations, permanent physical injuries and PTSD.

Federal data shows healthcare workers are five more likely than other workers to become victims of workplace violence—making a career in healthcare one of the most dangerous jobs in America.

Patients Pay the Price too.

While healthcare workers attempt to shield their patients from violence, they also pay a heavy price. Ninety-seven percent of ONA members reported violent incidents impact patient care by disrupting care, delaying treatments and, in some cases, turning patients into victims.

Escalating violence also leaves fewer providers to care for patients–exacerbating our community’s care crisis. One in five healthcare workers reported missing work last year due to workplace violence injuries and trauma and more than 26 percent of healthcare workers are considering quitting due to workplace violence.

In addition to the physical, mental and emotional damages, violence costs taxpayers, patients, providers and the companies they work for billions. The American Hospital Association estimates workplace violence costs hospitals and health systems $2.7 billion annually in increased staffing costs, insurance losses, healthcare costs for victims and security among other expenses.

“Generations of healthcare workers have been taught that violence and abuse are just ‘part of the job,’” said Jennifer Bevacqua, a nurse practitioner at OHSU and ONA leader. “Recently, a RN colleague of mine was kicked in the face by a patient on a stretcher. This is not OK. Workplace violence is an epidemic that harms healthcare providers and patients. It delays treatments and drives healthcare workers away from the bedside. We must take action to protect workers, support victims, and ensure healthcare is safe for patients and caregivers.”

Senate Bill 537 Makes Healthcare Safer for Patients and Providers.

The rising tide of violence in healthcare is more than a statistic—it is a daily reality that endangers lives, disrupts patient care, and inflicts long-term physical, mental, and financial harm on our communities. In the wake of this growing public health crisis, the Oregon Nurses Association and elected leaders are proud to announce Senate Bill 537, a statewide answer to the daily violence harming patients, providers and our communities. Senate Bill 537 protects patients and providers by incorporating proven safety strategies to prevent violence and better support victims.

Senate Bill 537 prevents workplace violence.  

• Adopts proven safety strategies like annual de-escalation training, initial safety assessments, identity protection, improved information sharing to ensure safe care for patients and providers, emergency alert devices and increased security.
• Strengthens safety committees and provides for root cause analysis and process improvements to prevent future violence. 

Senate Bill 537 supports victims of violence.

• Ensures first aid, trauma counseling and time off are available to victims when needed. 

Senate Bill 537 increases transparency and accountability to prevent future attacks. 

• Helps identify trends and socialize successful strategies by requiring hospitals to report workplace violence info to the state for future study and policymaking. 

“Workplace violence inflicts deep physical, mental and emotional scars. The trauma caregivers endure is real and it’s driving many of our most experienced nurses away from the bedside,” said Patrick Hennessy, a nurse at OHSU and chair of ONA’s Cabinet on Health Policy. “We can’t eliminate every violent incident, but we can do much more to prevent it. Senate Bill 537 gives more nurses and healthcare providers proven tools to safely care for our patients and ourselves. No one should have to work in fear. Preventing workplace violence is a cause we can all support.”

The Senate health care committee is expected to hold a hearing on Senate Bill 537 Thursday, March 20.

More information on ONA’s work to end workplace violence in healthcare can be found online at www.OregonRN.org/WPV.