The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Monday, March 17, 2025
Willamette Valley Weather
Stay updated with the National Weather Service and NOAA for the latest information on evolving conditions.
Wild Weather Over the Weekend
Wind and rain and snow impacted our region. Now is a good time to check on your neighbors too.
𝐅𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐃 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 –Flooding caused by heavy rains is affecting several areas of Lane County. Information is available at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/2025Flood
There are currently 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝟏 (𝐁𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲) evacuation notices in effect for:
All areas on Sunderman Road, which will be closed except for local access by residents. All areas south of Silk Creek to Bryant Avenue, between Gowdyville Road and S. River Road Riverstone RV Park at S. 6th Avenue and Latham Road Level 1 means you should be aware of the danger that exists in your area, monitor local media outlets and telephone devices to receive further information.
There is a 𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐭𝐞𝐫-𝐢𝐧-𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 in Cottage Grove for:
All areas north of Silk Creek Road accessed by Cemetery Bridge Road, including Buttercup Loop, Bluebird Street, Ash Avenue, and Pond Turtle Way. People should monitor river conditions and be prepared to seek higher ground if flooding occurs. Now is the time to make a plan for where you will go, what you will take, and how you will get there if you need to leave your home. You should also be ready to shelter in place if evacuation is not the safest option.
Continue to monitor your phones and local news for updates or another alert if conditions get worse. Get more flood preparedness information, including suggestions for protecting your property, at www.ready.gov/flood
Here is the last informational update regarding the local flooding and emergency response sent out to Steering Committee members of the Lane County Community Organizations Active in Disaster – COAD As of 4 pm on Sunday, March 16th:
Lane County and Cottage Grove have activated their Emergency Operation Centers (EOCs).
Eugene is in the process of activating theirs.
The American Red Cross is presently working to assist some families who have been displaced from a flooded apartment building in Eugene.
Cottage Grove is working with the American Red Cross to open an overnight shelter at the Community Center.
At this point, Lane County Sheriff’s Office is able to handle any dispatch call volume and responses.
Regional Public Health, Public Works, Utilities and First Responders are all monitoring and addressing issues as they arise
Cooperators calls will continue daily as neededLane County has this website for current information: https://www.lanecounty.org/news/march_2025_flooding
We are currently tracking several roadways impacted by water across our region. Please be cautious of high water, washed out roads, mudslides, and debris in roadways today!
If your property has been impacted by flooding, please check out these resources:
After the Flood – State of Oregon:https://apps.oregon.gov/…/Post/after-the-water-retreat
https://www.floodsmart.gov/flood
Some schools face delays and closures due to flooding today. Check the schedules.
Winter weather forces closure Sunday night of OR 58 Oakridge to Crescent Lake
ODOT: PDX, Mt. Hood – 03/16/25 5:17 PM
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.
UPDATE: 3/15/25 – Deceased person found in Fern Ridge Reservoir identified
The deceased person found in Fern Ridge Reservoir has been identified as Tiffany Nicole Hillyer, 42, of Salem. —
LCSO Case #25-1168 – Deputies Recover Deceased Person from Fern Ridge Reservoir
On March 8th at about 4 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to Fern Ridge Reservoir for a report of a deceased person in the lake. Deputies recovered the person and are investigating the incident. The identity of the involved is being withheld pending next of kin notification.
Deputies Recover Missing Person Robert Bennett from Dorena Lake
On December 28, 2024, Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue began looking for Robert Ray Bennett II, of Cottage Grove, after he went missing from a campsite near Brice Creek, which had extremely high water at the time.
On March 2nd, 2025, deputies recovered a deceased subject downstream in Dorena Lake after a boater on the lake located him. The deceased person has since been identified as Robert Ray Bennett II. — 3/12/25 — LCSO Case #24-6811, 25-1052
Original Press Releases
UPDATE – 01/06/25 – LCSO Case #24-6811 Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue Continuing Search for Missing Cottage Grove ManOn December 28th, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office began searching for 61-year-old Robert Ray Bennett II of Cottage Grove. Bennett was last seen standing on the bank of Brice Creek at a campsite east of Cedar Creek Campground on Brice Creek Road, east of Disston. After further investigation, it is believed Bennett fell into Brice Creek, which was running near historically high flow rate at the time. Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue searched the area extensively with drones, K9s, and ground searchers. As water levels drop, Search & Rescue continues to search the Brice Creek, Row River, and Dorena Lake area. Bennett is described as a white male adult, standing approximately 5’10” tall and weighing about 165 pounds. He has white hair, brown eyes, and stubble facial hair. Bennett has a hunched posture and issues walking. He was last seen wearing a maroon coat, black shirt, suspenders, tan wranglers, and cowboy boots. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4141.
–12/28/24 – LCSO Case #24-6811 Camper missing in the Brice Creek area east of Cottage GroveThe Lane County Sheriff’s Office is looking for 61-year-old Robert Ray Bennett II of Cottage Grove. Bennett was last seen on Friday standing on the bank of Brice Creek at a campsite east of Cedar Creek Campground on Brice Creek Road, east of Disston. Bennett is described as a white male adult, standing approximately 5’10” tall and weighing about 165 pounds. He has white hair, brown eyes, and stubble facial hair. Bennet has a hunched posture and issues walking. He was last seen wearing a maroon coat, black shirt, suspenders, tan wranglers, and cowboy boots. Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue has been actively searching for Bennett. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4141.
3/13/25 – LCSO Case #25-1231 Deputies arrest male committing multiple crimes in Hayes Lane area
On March 13th at about 10:30 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies and a Junction City Police officer responded to the 30500 block of Hayes Lane, southeast of Junction City, for a report of a male trespassing in the area. Additional calls came in about the male as he continued across rural properties and entered buildings, including a home with children inside. Deputies spotted the male sprinting across a field and then disappearing into heavy brush.
Another deputy responded with a drone, and soon located the suspect, Jacob Lee Woody, 34, of Eugene. Woody was arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail for: – Burglary in the 1st Degree – Burglary in the 2nd Degree – Theft in the 1st Degree – Theft in the 2nd Degree – 5 counts of Criminal Trespass in the 2nd Degree. Thanks to the Junction City Police for their assistance in this case
Fatal Crash – Highway 20 – Linn County
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.
3/13/25 – LCSO Case #25-1228 – Deputies arrest assault suspect, locate firearm
On March 13th at about 8 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a dispute in the 500 block of Rosewood Avenue, Eugene.
They contacted the involved and after investigating, arrested Brian Christopher Vaughan, 47, of Eugene and lodged him at the Lane County Jail for Strangulation, Assault in the 4th Degree, Menacing, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.
Deputies then applied for and were granted a search warrant to locate the handgun used in the incident. During their search, they located the handgun in the residence.
Benton County Sheriff’s Office 
Community Alert: Help Locate Stephen Michael Lea
Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) needs your help! We’re actively seeking information on the whereabouts of 49-year-old Stephen Michael Lea from Cheshire, OR. He is wanted for multiple felony sex crime offenses.
Lea has a prior conviction for public indecency involving inappropriate conduct in front of children. Our investigators have been unable to find him and are counting on the community’s assistance.
Have You Seen Stephen Michael Lea?
Description:- Age: 49- Last Known Location: Cheshire, OR- Vehicle: 2013 black Dodge 3500 dually pickup (actual vehicle shown)
How You Can Help:- Do not approach or contact him directly. If you have any information, please reach out to us.- Send a direct message to our page or- Call BCSO at 541-766-6858 with any tips or sightings. Your assistance is crucial in ensuring community safety. Let’s work together to bring him to justice. Thank you for your vigilance and support!
Oregon’s Eugene Symphony has announced that Alex Prior will be the New Music Director beginning during the 2025-26 season.
Prior will bring over 19 years of international and critically acclaimed experience to his appointment and his tenure with the Eugene Symphony will begin in fall, 2025.
Prior studied at the St. Petersburg Conservatory and was appointed by the Seattle Symphony as an Assistant Conductor. In 2017, he became the Chief Conductor of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra at just 22 years of age. He is known for conducting the works of Jean Sibelius, Anton Bruckner, Galina Ustvolskaya, John Adams, and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov.
He has also conducted such orchestras as the San Francisco, Detroit, Queensland, and Houston Symphony Orchestras, the German Radio Symphony Orchestra, the German Radio Philharmonic, the Gewandhaus Orchestra, the NDR Symphony Hamburg, the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen, the Calgary Philharmonic, Orquesta Sinfónica de Madrid, and the Brevard Festival Orchestra, amongst numerous others.
Lane County Sheriff’s Office Releases 2024 Annual Report
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is excited to announce the release of our 2024 Annual Report, now available to the public in digital and print form. Designed in a magazine-style format, this year’s report offers an engaging look at our office and work over the past year — highlighting our many different services, impactful stories, and opportunities to help with our mission, “To Conserve the Peace.”
We invite everyone to explore the report to learn about our work, our people, and the many ways we strive to serve our community. The full report is available in our lobby and online at https://bit.ly/LCSO2024Report—http://www.lanecounty.org/…/sheriff_s…/annual_report_
Everyone Village in Eugene accepts cans and bottles with no limit
Typically, BottleDrop redemption centers accept a daily maximum of 350 containers per person, but Everyone Village can accept as many as you have, whether it’s 50 cans or 5,000 cans.
Everyone Village, located at 3825 Janisse St., accepts unlimited cans and bottles three days a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. They will be adding an additional day to the schedule in April.
REEL on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1136451074555235 FOLLOW: https://www.facebook.com/everyonevillage WEBSITE: https://everyonevillage.org
SPRING INTO ACTION: DONATE TO OPERATION REFILL THE STOCKPILE
Call for Donations
Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with First Christian Church, is calling on the community to Spring into Action by donating essential items for those experiencing homelessness. Operation Fill the Stockpile is an effort to collect much-needed clothing and survival gear to help our unhoused neighbors stay safe and warm during the colder months, as well as in the warmer months ahead.
“Spring is a time when many people clean out their homes and refresh their spaces. Instead of discarding unwanted items, consider giving them a second life by donating to those in need,” said Amy Wilson, Lane County Human Services Program Coordinator. “With unpredictable weather this time of year, these donations can be the difference between safety and hardship for those without shelter. Your generosity can make a life-saving difference for someone facing the elements.”
To kick off Operation Fill the Stockpile, First Christian Church will host a one-day donation drive on Friday, March 21st, 2025, from 1 PM to 5 PM, where community members can drop off donations and enjoy refreshments. After the event, donations will be accepted Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to 2 PM at First Christian Church. Items can also be purchased from the Amazon Wish List and shipped directly to 1166 Oak St., Eugene, OR 97401.
Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share
Donated items will be distributed to local homeless outreach providers who directly support unsheltered individuals.
Lane County Government — Part of being prepared for an emergency is knowing how you will receive emergency alerts and life safety information. Lane County uses several tools to alert residents.
Watch the video below to learn more about those tools and decide which ones you will rely on in the event of an emergency or disaster. 
https://vimeo.com/565852770 Sign up to receive Lane Alerts emergency alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org#NationalPreparednessMonth
Eugene Springfield Fire · ESF’s Young Women’s Fire Camp is now accepting applications.
The camp will run from June 23rd – June 27th this year. The deadline for sign up is May 1, 2025. You can sign up on our website at: https://www.eugene-or.gov/2983/Young-Womens-Fire-Camp.
“When It Hits The Fan”: Podcast by Lane County Emergency Management
This month on Lane County Emergency Management’s 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼𝑡 𝐻𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑛, Emergency Manager Tiffany Brown shares essential tips on what to do in an emergency.
Get ready, stay informed, and make sure you’re prepared for anything! 
Listen now: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube
About Lane County Emergency Management – Lane County Emergency Management is committed to preparing the community for emergencies and disasters through education, planning, and response coordination. Listen at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan.
White Bird Clinic – · Crisis intervention is a 24/7 need in our community, and CAHOOTS, as part of White Bird Crisis Intervention programs, responds.
White Bird CAHOOTS Springfield Coverage: 11 am – 11 pm, 7 days a week (541-726-3714) — Eugene Coverage: 24/7 (541-682-5111)
Starting in the new year, White Bird Dental Clinic will offer more walk-in clinic times. Currently, we offer walk-in clinics at 1415 Pearl St. every Monday and Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. In January, we will also add every other Friday at 7:30 a.m. Find more information at whitebirdclinic.org/dental
Youth Empowerment Programs, City of Eugene
Registration open for our FREE programs.
Some programs are drop-in, so no registration is required—just show up and get involved!
For more information and links to register, visit our website: https://www.eugene-or.gov/4888/Youth-Empowerment-Program
Senator Merkley’s Town Halls Packed
Oregonians have been turning out in record-breaking numbers to Senator Merkley’s town halls this year. His office works to find the best venues available, but many venues have reached capacity. He was just in Josephine and Jackson County and more scheduled around the state. Town Hall Schedules: https://www.merkley.senate.gov/connect/town-halls/
Oregon Humane Society Warns about Scam Regarding Medical Bills for Your Lost Pet
Scammers are targeting the owners of lost pets pretending to be the Oregon Humane Society, the real Oregon Humane Society said on Friday.
In a so-called “spoofing” scam, the callers tell pet owners that their missing pet is injured and needs medical care. Then they demand payment.
“This scam preys on vulnerable people who are searching for their lost pet, which makes it particularly cruel,” Laura Klink, public information officer for the Oregon Humane Society said in a news release.
The calls even look like they are coming from the Oregon Humane Society’s main number, Klink said.
The humane society uses online payment portals including ezyVet and PayJunction, Klink said, so it’s a red flag if the caller asks for money through services like Zelle or Venmo.
If pet owners are concerned they’re being targeted by this scam, they should hang up and call the Oregon Humane Society directly at (503) 285-7722, Klink said.
Common School Fund will send record-breaking $76.8 million to Oregon schools in 2025
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.
Avalanche Incident at Mt. Bailey near Diamond Lake Claims Life of Bend Man
DIAMOND LAKE, Ore. – On Thursday, March 13, 2025, a group of skiers experienced an avalanche incident while skiing on the north/northwest side of Mt. Bailey within the motorized closure area. The group, the fourth of the day to enjoy cat skiing at Mt. Bailey, a service through Diamond Lake Resort, encountered unforeseen challenges despite prior avalanche test digs earlier in the day.
The avalanche occurred at approximately 3:45 PM, trapping one member of the party, identified as 50-year-old Brian Thomas Roberts of Bend, Oregon, under the snow. Despite efforts by fellow party members who swiftly dug him out, and attempted lifesaving efforts by two nurses on the scene, Roberts succumbed to his injuries in the remote location.
The group of skiers managed to navigate approximately two miles to the nearest snowmobile trail, where they were met by responders and Diamond Lake Resort staff. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) assessed others with the ski party who were injured at Three Lakes Snow Park. One additional member of the group sustained a laceration or puncture injury during the avalanche, believed to be caused by a branch or ski pole, but declined ambulance transport.
Responding to the incident were Diamond Lake Resort employees, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue, US Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers, and Umpqua Valley Ambulance. The Sheriff’s Office also received support from the Oregon Department of Emergency Management Search and Rescue Coordinator.
Governor Kotek has been saying for months that Oregon’s public schools need more money, and they need to be held accountable for better academic outcomes.
Now Kotek — along with fellow Democrats Senate President Rob Wagner and Speaker of the House Julie Fahey — pushed two complementary bills forward to legislators this week. House Bill 2009 had its first hearing Monday afternoon; Senate Bill 141 is set to have its first hearing on Wednesday.
Both were presented earlier in the session as placeholder bills meant to study the adequacy of public education and school accountability. They now carry amendment proposals that lay out more specifics. This is the latest of several efforts in recent months to give Oregon more teeth when it comes to education.
This week’s bills would set new metrics for public schools, paying more attention to existing markers, like graduation rates, but with some additional measures as well, such as eighth-grade math and early grade attendance rates.
They also aim to fine-tune what the Oregon Department of Education is responsible for. But perhaps the biggest change is that the bills would require districts to take certain steps if they aren’t showing enough improvement.
As it stands now, districts that have been struggling and qualify for state “intensive” support can choose whether to opt in — a measure that was designed and funded through the Student Success Act in 2019. As of this fall, only a fraction of the districts that qualify have taken the state up on their offer.
An Oregon appeals court on Wednesday found that a gun control law approved by voters over two years ago is constitutional, reversing a lower court ruling from a state judge who had kept it on hold.
The law, one of the toughest in the nation, requires people to undergo a criminal background check and complete a gun safety training course in order to obtain a permit to buy a firearm.
It also bans high-capacity magazines holding more than 10 rounds. Measure 114 has been tied up in state and federal court since it was narrowly approved by voters in November 2022. It was among the first gun restrictions to be passed after a major 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling changed the guidance judges are expected to follow when considering Second Amendment cases.
A state judge in rural southeastern Oregon temporarily blocked the law from taking effect after gun owners filed a lawsuit claiming it violated the right to bear arms under the Oregon Constitution. Circuit Court Judge Robert S. Raschio then presided over a 2023 trial in Harney County and ruled that the law violated the state constitution. The Oregon attorney general’s office appealed the ruling.
Homicide Investigation in Coos County after body found near Johnson Mill Pond
On March 12, 2025, at about 0859 hours, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of Johnson Mill Pond located between Coquille, and Myrtle Point Oregon in response to a report of a deceased person at that location. As a result of the call, a homicide investigation is being conducted.
At this point, further details about the decedent will not be released pending next of kin notification. However, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the assistance of the public. If anyone was present at Johnson Mill Pond between the hours of 7 am and 9 am on March 12, 2025, please contact the North Coos Dispatch Center at 541-269-8911 Option 1.
The Coos County Sheriff’s Office or the Coos County District Attorney’s Office will follow up with more information as it becomes available. This is an active and ongoing investigation and any assistance by the public is appreciated.
Lincoln Co. District Attorney’s Office Requests Help Solving Kelly Disney Homicide
WE NEED YOUR HELP! 17-year-old Kelly Disney was last seen in the early morning hours on March 9, 1984, walking eastbound on Highway 20 near U.S. 101 in Newport, Oregon. Kelly was observed on Highway 20 by several witnesses before disappearing and never being seen alive again.
In July 1994, Kelly’s skull was found in an abandoned vehicle near Big Creek Reservoir outside of Newport, Oregon. It appeared her skull had recently been placed at that location and her death was ruled a homicide. Kelly’s disappearance and homicide remain unsolved.
The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Cold Case Team is seeking information from the community in an effort to solve the 40-year-old disappearance and homicide of Kelly Disney. We believe there are individuals in our community who may have information that could assist in this investigation.
If you knew Kelly or heard about her disappearance, we want to hear from you. Whether you experienced something firsthand or heard information thirdhand, that information is valuable. No matter how insignificant you feel the information might be, we still want to hear from you.
It is never too late to come forward and share information. If you do not want to reveal the circumstances in which you obtained the information, you can report information anonymously.
SUBMIT A TIP: CALL: (541) 265-0669 —- EMAIL: FindKellyDisney@co.lincoln.or.us
Spring Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon coast for spring break 2025
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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.
Oregon State Parks to hire more than 200 seasonal Rangers, Ranger Assistants
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Oregon State Parks will hire more than 200 seasonal Rangers and Ranger Assistants for positions across the state for the 2025 season.
Hiring starts as soon as this month and runs through about June with new positions listed on a rolling basis on the website. The positions last anywhere from four to nine months. Most seasonal staff work April through September, but some start as early as this month or work as late as December.
Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.
Salaries start at $19.78 per hour for seasonal assistants and $23.21 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, start at $19.77 or more per hour depending on experience.
“We believe in growing leadership from within. We invest in our staff and provide pathways for advancement whether you’re here for a season or your entire career,” said Director Lisa Sumption.
Seasonal staff gain valuable skills working with experienced Rangers at parks around the state. The first wave of openings include positions along the coast from Washburne to Cape Lookout; the Willamette Valley including Silver Falls and Detroit Lake; the Columbia River Gorge and Eastern Oregon including Wallowa Lake and Lake Owyhee.
For more information about current openings, visit stateparks.oregon.gov. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Recruiting D.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity and pay equity.
ODF proposes revised state forest implementation plans, opens 30-day comment period
SALEM, Ore.–The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) opens a 30-day comment period on proposed Implementation Plan revisions for the Astoria, Forest Grove, Tillamook, North Cascade, West Oregon, and Western Lane (including the Veneta and Southwest units) state forest districts. Implementation plans describe forest management activities such as timber harvest targets, road construction and maintenance, reforestation and young stand management, recreation, aquatic habitat restoration and protection strategies for species of concern.
The comment period begins Feb. 20 and ends March 21 at 5 p.m. The implementation plans are available on ODF’s website. Comments can be submitted online by using this form, emailing ODF.SFComments@oregon.gov, or mailing comments to ODF Public Affairs, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310.
State forests by law must provide social, economic, and environmental benefits to Oregonians, and are managed under long-range forest management plans, mid-range implementation plans, and annual operations plans.
At the direction of the Board of Forestry, ODF is continuing the development of a draft Western Oregon State Forests Habitat Conservation Plan and Forest Management Plan for Western Oregon State Forests. The draft Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) is currently going through the National Environmental Policy Act process. Finalization of this process and issuance of Incidental Take Permits is expected to occur within fiscal year 2026. Revising the current implementation plans allows the agency to continue operations during this time of transition and further align with the draft HCP while focusing resources on developing a new forest management plan and accompanying implementation plans required to implement the draft HCP.
The revisions to the current Implementation Plans include new information on the district land base and forest resources, updated Species of Concern strategies and associated Forest Land Management Classification map, clarified timber harvest target descriptions, and changes to the mapped landscape design of the desired future condition. These changes align with Division policy, current Forest Management Plans and draft HCP objectives. In order to cover the HCP approval timeline, the new Forest Management Plan and new Implementation Plan development timelines, the revised Implementation Plans have been extended through June 30, 2027.
The Chief Executive Officer of Waterfall Community Health Center in North Bend has resigned. The former Gresham pastor is accused of sexually abusing teenagers.
According to a notice of proposed disciplinary action from the Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists, between roughly 1998 and 2001, Lance Nelson engaged in sexual misconduct with two minors. The board says Nelson remained in contact with the minors through his connections with Springwater Church of the Nazarene in Gresham. It also says he continued the sexual misconduct with the two minors while he pursued a counseling degree and offered the two individuals counseling services.
The board says it did not learn of the alleged conduct until 2023.
On Tuesday, the Waterfall Health Center announced in a Facebook post that Nelson had resigned effective immediately.
Ten men formerly incarcerated at Oregon’s MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn have filed a $51 million lawsuit against the state’s juvenile justice agency, the Oregon Health Authority (OYA), alleging that they were all sexually abused by a single OYA doctor, and that several of them were also sexually abused by various other OYA staff.
The lawsuit seeks $100,000 in economic damages and $5 million in noneconomic damages for each plaintiff. It follows a series of other youth sexual abuse lawsuits filed last year that have put intense scrutiny on OYA’s handling of youth sexual abuse cases.
The latest lawsuit, filed Wednesday in Multnomah County Circuit Court, accuses OYA of negligence, civil rights violations and sexual battery of a child. In addition to the agency and the State of Oregon, it lists 20 staff, five directors and five superintendents as defendants, alleging that they either committed sexual abuse or failed to report it.
The complaint states that the plaintiffs do not know the full identities of many of the defendants. The plaintiffs are all listed by initials; although they are all now in their 30s, the lawsuit states that they are seeking to use pseudonyms during the proceedings due to the sensitive nature of the allegations.
Northwest Digital Heritage reaches one million digital records of cultural heritage collections available to view online
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.
OREGON DIVISION OF FINANCIAL REGULATION CREATES COMMERCIAL INSURANCE GUIDES FOR BUSINESSES AND NONPROFITS
Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) recently released a series of new consumer guides focused on commercial property and casualty insurance. The five new guides can be found on DFR’s website:
- Guides to commercial property and casualty insurance
- Shelters – Guide to commercial property and casualty insurance
- Nonprofits – Guide to commercial property and casualty insurance
- Child care providers – Guide to commercial property and casualty insurance
- Restaurants – Guide to commercial property and casualty insurance
These guides explain key features of commercial insurance policies, how to plan for and purchase coverage, and what to do if you are having difficulty finding insurance for your business. It also includes useful descriptions of different types of coverage and what factors insurers use to determine what premium you pay. Individual guides are also available that define special considerations for shelters, nonprofits, child care facilities, and restaurants. These provide tips for overcoming distinct challenges encountered with these types of organizations and businesses.
“By taking proactive measures, business owners and nonprofits can better manage their risks and ensure they have the necessary protection in place,” said Andrew Stolfi, Oregon’s insurance commissioner and director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “We are hopeful these guides can help people navigate the intricacies of insurance and better understand terminology, technicalities, and how to get coverage if a commercial entity is struggling to obtain coverage in traditional markets.”
DFR has a variety of other publications to help consumers with auto insurance, health and life insurance, disaster resources, student loans, managing your finances, and more on its website.
If you have questions about your insurance, contact your insurance company or agent, or you can contact one of DFR’s consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or at dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.
Registration is closing soon for the Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K
Oregon Parks Forever — Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests. Registration is now open for the 2025 Run for the Trees at www.orparksforever.org.
Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests. You must register by April 1st in order to get your shirts and medal before the event.
Participants can walk, run, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 19 and 27 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day). Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15.
For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks. Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration. This year, the trees will be planted in the Santiam Canyon.
Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.
As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its fifth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include eleven other states. Together, Michigan, Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Maryland, Virginia and Tennessee will “lock arms” as they help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.
“We are thrilled to partner with Bob Ross, Inc. and these other eleven states on the Happy Little 5K concept as a way to honor the late Bob Ross and create a legacy event to plant trees,” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.”
Oregon Parks Forever is joining this event as an expansion of our efforts to fund the replanting of trees killed by wildfires, heat domes and invasive insects. Over the past two years, Oregon Parks Forever has been able to fund the replanting of more than 800,000 trees across Oregon.
“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”
Learn more about the program at www.orparksforever.org.
Oregon’s Missing Persons
Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.
Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced
Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline.
It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com
