Willamette Valley News, Friday 4/11 – International Students at 3 Oregon Universities Have Visas Revoked in Federal Crackdown, Eugene Public Library GIANT BOOK SALE this Weekend & Other Local and Statewide News…

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

Friday, April 11, 2025

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International Students at 3 Oregon Universities Have Visas Revoked in Federal Crackdown

Officials at other public and private universities across the state say they’re monitoring the situation.

Nineteen international students attending Oregon’s three largest universities have had their visas revoked by the Department of Homeland Security, according to university officials.

They include 13 students from Oregon State University, four from University of Oregon, and two at Portland State University. In addition, one recent PSU graduate has lost visa eligibility, according to university officials.

Portland State University President Ann Cudd called the situation “deeply troubling.”

“International students are vital contributors to Portland State’s campus life and have been for decades,” Cudd shared in a Thursday afternoon message.

“We will continue to support international students and protect their ability to study here.”

According to KLCC, visas for the four UO students were revoked based on “unspecified criminal charges.” KLCC reports UO is providing guidance to students on how to proceed.

Hundreds of student visas have been revoked nationally from over 100 colleges and universities as the Trump administration targets higher education and its constituents. An Inside Higher Ed map shows colleges across the country have been affected, with federal officials investigating several students for activism efforts or criminal charges.

On Thursday, a group of 86 universities signed on to an amicus brief from the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration in support of American Association of University Professors v. Rubio, a lawsuit against the federal government’s arrests and deportations of students based on their political views. Oregon State, Reed College, Western Oregon University and Eastern Oregon University all signed in support.

Lewis & Clark College, Reed College and University of Portland are among private colleges in Oregon with significant international student numbers. Officials at the Lewis & Clark and Reed colleges say they have not had any student visas revoked, but that they are monitoring the situation.

“We continue to provide support to international students, recognizing the impact of the current political climate on their physical and mental wellbeing,” said Reed chief communications officer Sheena McFarland in an email to OPB.

Citing student privacy protections, University of Portland, who has 139 international students enrolled this semester, declined to provide information about whether any students have been affected.

At Lewis & Clark College in Portland, international undergraduate students make up 7.4% of the student population, coming to the school from 83 countries. Officials there report that none of their 158 international students have had any visas canceled, though students are concerned due to national reports.

“A number of Lewis & Clark students remained on campus during spring break rather than leave the country and risk not being able to return,” Lewis & Clark officials said in an email. (SOURCE)

Eugene Public Library – GIANT BOOK SALE this Weekend!

Coming up Sat., April 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sun., April 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Lane Events Center (Fairgrounds). See you there!.Shop for fun and a good cause with thousands of gently-used and like-new books for all ages and interests, most at the bargain price of only $2.

Find fiction and nonfiction in paperback and hardcover, all genres, recent bestsellers, and rare and specialty books. Plus DVDs, audio books, music CDs, novelties and a large selection of children’s books, DVDs and CDs.

The book sale is a project of the all-volunteer Friends of Eugene Public Library. Proceeds help support library activities and events including Summer Reading books and programs for children and teens. For more information, to volunteer or to join the Friends: visit friendseugenelibrary.org

Bushnell University School of Music and Performing Arts Spring Performances and Events

EUGENE – Bushnell University’s School of Music and Performing Arts is pleased to invite the community to spring performances and events offered by the students in University Choir, Bushnell Chorale, and Bushnell Jazz Ensemble.

On April 11th at 12 p.m., Spring Performance Hour will showcase the music of students enrolled in private lessons and feature a variety of repertoire from lyrical classical arias to contemporary popular favorites.

Then join us as we close the season with our energizing Spring Concert, April 26 at 7 p.m., at First Baptist Church in Eugene, bringing all the music students together in a program of exciting gospel music, cultural celebrations, utilizing a selection of classic and contemporary jazz repertoire.

At the end of April, we will announce the winner of ‘Song of the Year’—chosen from the five featured songs of Bushnell University’s 2024-25 Songwriters Contest. A professionally recorded EP of these fantastic songs will be released later in the year.

See more at bushnell.edu/events. The Bushnell events are free to the public and open to all ages.

Program subject to change. LOCATIONS: Bushnell’s Ross Evans Chapel and First Baptist Church of Eugene —- Tickets: Free

 Car Drives Through the Front Door of Vape Shop in Eugene

The Eugene Police Department reports a black Volvo is reported to have driven straight through the Nephos Vape Shop in Eugene at 2750 W. 11th just before 2 pm Thursday.

Workers cleaned up the store and boarding up its windows shortly afterwards. No injuries were reported. An investigation is ongoing.

Oregon Nurses Association –  “Patients at one of the Eugene-Springfield area’s two hospitals are being treated in a former call center and a former vending machine room. ”

Yeah. You read that right. A vending machine room. Unsuprisingly, since the closure of University District hospital in Eugene nearby Riverbend Medical Center has had an overwhelming number of patients.

Ever since the University District closure was announced nurses, doctors and other healthcare workers have anticipated these needs and have called on PeaceHealth to hire additional caregivers and restore or add care spaces. Read more https://ow.ly/xqt150Vv7fi

Junction City Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Repeatedly Possessing and Distributing Child Pornography

—A Junction City, Oregon man with two prior child pornography convictions was sentenced to federal prison today for repeatedly possessing and distributing child pornography online.  

Christopher Lyn Sparks, 59, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison and a lifetime term of supervised release.

According to court documents, in 2006 and 2013, Sparks was convicted of federal child pornography charges and violating the terms of his supervised release. In November 2023, following his second release from prison, Sparks was required to serve a lifetime term of supervised release.

In May 2024, officers with the Portland Police Bureau alerted Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents to a series of CyberTipline reports related to child sex abuse material from several online social media and messaging platforms including Google, X (formerly Twitter), Tumblr, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, Telegram, and TikTok.

Investigators traced multiple accounts from those CyberTips to Sparks and learned he had resumed distributing child sexual abuse material online through these platforms while still under federal supervision. An HSI agent, posing as a person interested in these materials, contacted Sparks through his Telegram account. Sparks exchanged messages with the agent and discussed sexually exploiting children. The agent discovered that Sparks was openly offering to trade and advertising child pornography using his Telegram account.  On June 11, 2024, Sparks was arrested after agents executed a federal search warrant and seized his phone, which contained child pornography.

On July 9, 2024, Sparks was charged by criminal information with possessing and distributing child pornography. On December 11, 2024, he pleaded guilty to both charges.

This case was investigated by HSI with assistance from the FBI and the Portland Police Bureau. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Eugene Police Drone as First Responder granted FAA waiver for 200’ Beyond Visual Line of Sight, expanding coverage area and effectiveness

A clear and complete view makes a critical difference when you are trying to find a lost child or locate a fleeing bank robbery suspect. Eugene Police Drones as First Responder (DFR) program has just received a Certificate of Waiver for 200’ Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. This unlocks coverage to 40% more of the city and will allow EPD DFR to cover far more shifts with a single operator.

The use of DFR is helping EPD respond faster to many public calls for service and made more efficient use of patrol staff. BVLOS operations will allow EPD DFR to cover more ground quicker, view places that may be more hazardous or difficult to get to, and perform tasks that would be impossible with the visual line of sight. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is in charge of reviewing waivers for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS). This waiver exempts drone pilots from keeping drones within their physical view during missions. With the waiver, EPD pilots can now operate their drones remotely and will have less travel time to incident sites.

To gain the FAA BVLOS 200’ waiver, EPD DFR:• submitted an application outlining the planned operations, safety measures, and technology EPD will be using• demonstrated the ability to safely conduct BVLOS flights, with risk assessments and mitigation strategies• ensured its pilots are well trained and certified in BVLOS operations• provided proof of meeting technology requirements, including using reliable communication systems, detect-and-avoid technologies, and robust navigation systems

Eugene Police DFR 2024 year-end statistics show the drones are 76% first on scene, 27% cleared without patrol, with 17 captures. So far in 2025 drones have been first on scene 83% of the time. And 40% of the drone calls are cleared without patrol, with 11 captures so far. Eugene Police first added drones to service in April 2018 during a pilot project. The Eugene Springfield Metro Drone Team was formed on October 31, 2022, and is currently comprised of sixteen officers and three sergeants between the two agencies. In June, 2024, EPD added Live911 to the DFR operator’s toolbox. This allows drone operators to hear the call live, as it is being handled by a 911 call taker. Prior to this, operators would have to wait until the call was dispatched and read through the information. Live911 allows us to launch faster, and arrive on scene sooner to emergency calls.

The EPD Drone Team which operates the DFR program is comprised of 13 operators, including a supervising sergeant. The team’s operators are drawn from sworn and professional staff (non-sworn operators).The DFR program is funded by the Community Safety Payroll Tax. The tax was passed to provide funds to support the Community Safety System. Funding will help provide faster, more efficient safety responses, deter crime, connect people to services, engage and help at-risk youth, support more investigations, and court services, and hold those who commit crimes accountable. https://www.eugene-or.gov/3946/Community-Safety-Initiative

CAHOOTS Services No Longer Available in Eugene Due to Funding

Monday, CAHOOTS and the City of Eugene issued a joint press release announcing they didn’t have the financial sources to continue providing CAHOOTS in Eugene, and that service were ending immediately. CAHOOTS, which stands for Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets, will continue to be available in Springfield from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

The announcement is a stunning development for a service that’s been recognized nationally, especially in the wake of the social justice protests that followed the 2020 murder of George Floyd, which renewed the national conversation about the role of armed officers in responding to mental health crises.

CAHOOTS (Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets) will still provide mobile crisis intervention in Springfield, 7 days a week from 11:00 am–11:00 pm. CAHOOTS is dispatched within the Springfield urban growth boundary, dispatched through the Springfield non-emergency number. Each team consists of a medic and a crisis worker.

CAHOOTS provides immediate stabilization in case of urgent medical need or psychological crisis, assessment, information, referral, advocacy and, in some cases, transportation to the next step in treatment. Any person who reports a crime in progress, violence, or a life-threatening emergency may receive a response from the police or emergency medical services instead of or in addition to CAHOOTS.

31 years ago the City of Eugene, Oregon developed an innovative community-based public safety system to provide mental health first response for crises involving mental illness, homelessness, and addiction. White Bird Clinic launched CAHOOTS (Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets) as a community policing initiative in 1989.

The CAHOOTS model has been in the spotlight as our nation struggles to re-imagine public safety. The program mobilizes two-person teams consisting of a medic (a nurse, paramedic, or EMT) and a crisis worker who has substantial training and experience in the mental health field. The CAHOOTS teams deal with a wide range of mental health related crises, including conflict resolution, welfare checks, substance abuse, suicide threats, and more, relying on trauma-informed de-escalation and harm reduction techniques. CAHOOTS staff are not law enforcement officers and do not carry weapons; their training and experience are the tools they use to ensure a non-violent resolution of crisis situations. They also handle nonemergent medical issues, avoiding costly ambulance transport and emergency room treatment.

CAHOOTS offers a broad range of services, including but not limited to:

• Crisis Counseling
• Suicide Prevention, Assessment, and Intervention
• Conflict Resolution and Mediation
• Grief and loss
• Substance Abuse
• Housing Crisis
• First Aid and Non-Emergency Medical Care
• Resource Connection and Referrals
• Transportation to Services

The power of White Bird’s CAHOOTS program lies in its community relationships and the ability of first responders to simply ask, ‘How can I support you today?’ White Bird Clinic is proud to be a part of spreading this type of response across Oregon and the rest of the United States.

Contact for Services — Phone: CAHOOTS is dispatched within the Springfield urban growth boundary through the non-emergency number, 541-726-3714.

Please Note: Services are only provided through the dispatch numbers, not the main clinic line or email.

Eugene Man Sentenced to 5 Years’ Probation for Posting Violent Threats on Facebook

—A Eugene man was sentenced to federal probation Wednesday for posting violent threats on Facebook.

Jeffrey Alan Voss, 31, was sentenced to a five-year term of probation in addition to the six months in custody he served prior to sentencing.

According to court documents, between September 24 and 27, 2024, Voss posted several videos of himself online making violent threats, including two in which he was holding a firearm. In another video, Voss discussed becoming the next Kip Kinkel, referring to a school shooter who, in 1998, murdered his parents and then opened fire at a Springfield, Oregon high school, killing two of his classmates and injuring twenty-five others.

Following those videos, on September 27, 2024, a concerned citizen called 911 to report a Facebook Live video Voss posted in which he claimed he was minutes from a specific high school and made violent threats. The Eugene Police Department located and arrested Voss the same day.

On October 1, 2024, the FBI executed a search warrant on Voss’s Eugene residence. Agents located and seized two firearms, one replica firearm, ammunition, body armor, and a handwritten note outlining his desires for vengeance and specifying individuals Voss wished to harm. The same day, upon learning his residence would be searched, Voss attempted to persuade an individual to conceal or remove evidence from his home.

On November 5, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene indicted Voss. He made his initial appearance the following day and was ordered detained. On March 6, 2025, Voss pleaded guilty.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Eugene Police Department. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, in coordination with the Lane County District Attorney’s Office.

Fatal Crash – Highway 99 S- Lane County

Lane County, Ore. 9 April 2025- On Monday, April 7, 2025, at 3:28 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 99 S, near milepost 1.5, in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Kenworth logtruck, operated by Christian James Gossett (52) of Cottage Grove, slowed to make a left turn when it was rear-ended by a southbound Toyota Matrix, operated by Josef Alexander Ward (29) of Creswell. 

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

The operator of the Kenworth (Gossett) was reportedly uninjured. The highway was impacted for approximately 2.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and ODOT.

LCSO Case #25-1547 Lane County Sheriff’s deputies serve search warrants at illegal marijuana grows and planned dispensary

On the morning of April 3rd, Lane County Sheriff’s detectives and deputies served search warrants at: – A greenhouse and residence in the 40300 block of Reuben Leigh, north of Lowell – A warehouse in the 1400 block of N. 32nd Street, Springfield – A warehouse in the 4200 block of W. 7th Avenue, Eugene – A warehouse in the 600 block of Commercial Street, Eugene – A warehouse in the 200 block of E. Palmer Avenue, Cottage Grove – A planned dispensary in the 1600 block of Main Street, Springfield

The investigation began recently when OLCC discovered the business, named Agricola, was operating far outside of the legal requirements regarding plant tracking, product location, and growing at unlicensed locations. A few of the locations were licensed, but not following legal requirements to operate. The Lane County Code Compliance Program and Oregon Watermaster will be following up with code violations discovered on the properties.

During the service of the search warrants, detectives located and seized 10,700 plants growing at several locations, as well as several hundred pounds of processed marijuana and marijuana products. Several people were contacted during the service of the search warrants. Their charges will be referred to the Lane County District Attorney’s Office for consideration.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on this case by the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team (DINT), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), OLCC, the Oregon Watermaster, and the Lane County Code Compliance Program. This investigation would not have been possible without the ongoing grant funding from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission’s Illegal Marijuana Market Grant (IMMEG).

This grant was created in 2018 by the Oregon Legislature to assist local law enforcement agencies and district attorneys’ offices in their efforts to address the illegal marijuana market in Oregon. This is an ongoing investigation. Further details may be provided at a later time. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact LCSO at 541-682-4141 and reference case #25-1547.

LCSO Case #21-2172 – Lane County man sentenced to prison for shooting

On April 16th, 2021, Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded shooting at a 2-acre property near Eugene where elderly owners allowed numerous people to live.  

Lane County Sheriff’s detectives then responded along with Oregon State Troopers and Eugene Police officers. Initial investigation determined the suspect, Darren Woods, had shot the victim two times with a handgun as the victim was returning home. Video surveillance corroborated victim and witness statements that this shooting was completely unprovoked. It was determined that Woods, who had only lived at the location for a few days, had never met and did not know victim, who had lived at the location for years.

After shooting the victim, Woods fled the location in his pickup after ramming the victim’s vehicle to escape.   Probable Cause was established and an arrest warrant for Woods along with an Attempt to Locate for his vehicle were issued. On April 25th, 2021, Woods was stopped in a different vehicle by a California Highway Patrol (CHP) Officer in Susanville, California, for speeding, and he was arrested on the warrant. The following day, the pickup Woods had been driving at the time of the incident was recovered.  

Over the course of the next four years, this case was postponed numerous times due to COVID court schedules, Woods cutting his ankle monitor and fleeing supervision, and other court proceedings.   Finally, on March 13th, 2025, trial began. As a result of the Lane Count District Attorney’s Office prosecution, Woods was found guilty by a jury of Assault in the First Degree, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

On March 28th, 2025, Woods was sentenced to 90 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections.   The victim survived, but sustained permanent disabilities from his injuries.   Woods’ still faces criminal charges in Benton County stemming from a vehicle pursuit that occurred after Woods cut his ankle monitor in the summer of 2024.   The Lane County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the many agencies that assisted on this case over the past several years.

Oregon Housing and Community Services to help fund 168 new affordable homes in Albany and Hood River

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services is helping fund the creation of 168 affordable homes in Albany and Hood River. The homes will offer a variety of services including support for veterans, education and skills programs, and assistance with the application process to farmworkers.

“We have an opportunity and an obligation to shape housing progress that truly delivers for people,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “That means supporting city and county leaders, developers, service providers, and others who are working to preserve the uniqueness and diversity of our communities—and tackling our state’s most pressing housing challenges with the urgency this issue demands.” 

Mid-Willamette Family YMCA (MWFY) is developing the Albany Veterans Apartments with 38 homes, a community space, an outdoor plaza, plus solar and electric vehicle charging stations. The housing community is designed with a veteran-specific, trauma-informed lens, including noise-reduction strategies, supports for companion animals, and accessible and adaptable living spaces. 

In Hood River, Mariposa Village will bring 130 housing units to the community. Columbia Cascade Housing Corporation and Community Development Partners started engaging with the community in 2021 to identify needs for communities of color in the Columbia River Gorge. The development team will work with Nch-i Wana Housing, a Hood River Native housing nonprofit that will support residents in the lease-up process.  

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. 

Church vandalized, police seeking tips

Eugene Police is seeking tips to identify a person of interest in a burglary and the extensive vandalization of the Wesley United Methodist Church, 1385 Oakway Road.

Overnight the church was broken into and thousands of dollars of music equipment and religious items were destroyed, and excrement was left in the worship area. Church belongings were recovered on Oakway Road near St Andrews Drive just to the south of the church.

The church’s camera system caught a person exiting at about 5:30 a.m. today, April 1, and would like to identify them. Police are asking neighbors along Oakway Road please check home camera systems for footage of the pictured individual. If you have tips in this case, please contact Officer Brandon Rathje, 541.359.6423, or Brathje@eugene-or.gov.Case 25-05163

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

LCSO Case #25-1277 Search continues for Eugene man missing in the Hall Road area west of Cheshire

Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue continues to search for Jonathan Allen House west of Cheshire. Yesterday, SAR K9 Mercy and her people searched additional areas.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue (SAR) continues looking for 63-year-old Jonathan Allen House of Eugene. House was last known to be in the 25600 block of Hall Road, west of Cheshire, as recently as March 15th.

Search efforts over the past 9 days have included: – 5 days of drone aerial search by deputies – 4 days of K9 searches by SAR K9 volunteers – 6 days of ground searches by SAR volunteers – 1 day of Eugene Mountain Rescue assisting in steep areas

The search has spanned a large, rugged area complicated by steep terrain and dense vegetation: – 50 miles of roadways – About 500 acres by ground – Far more area by drones Deputies and detectives have also spent about 40 hours analyzing cell phone data and combing through area security and game camera photos and videos.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the FBI and MMIW Search & Hope Alliance for their assistance on this case. Thanks also to Lane Fire Authority for allowing SAR to use their area fire station as a base of operations during ongoing searches, and to area landowners for their cooperation.

House is described as a white male adult, standing approximately 5’10” tall and weighing about 150 pounds. He has gray hair, blue eyes, and a mustache and stubble. He was last seen wearing glasses, a black or brown hooded coat, t-shirt, blue jeans, and work boots. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4141.

Re-Imagine Earth Day: A Collaborative Celebration of Sustainability in Eugene

A coalition of organizations and agencies dedicated to sustainability–with major financial support from the City of Eugene Cultural Services Downtown Program Fund Grant–is proud to announce Re-Imagine Earth Day, an inspiring, action-oriented community event.

Join community members on Sunday, April 13, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Farmers Market Pavilion (85 E. 8th Ave., Eugene) for a unique celebration designed to empower individuals and communities to live more sustainably.

This dynamic indoor/outdoor event, hosted by the Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts (MECCA), BRING, Shift Community Cycles, City of Eugene Waste Prevention, and Waste Wise Lane County–a part of Lane County Waste Management–will foster tangible behavior change and provide opportunities to engage, learn, and take meaningful steps toward a healthier planet.

What to Expect at Re-Imagine Earth Day

Re-Imagine Earth Day is more than just a gathering—it’s a call to action. Attendees will have the chance to:

• Connect with organizations, nonprofits, agencies, and businesses promoting sustainable behaviors, programs, products, and services.
• Explore eco-friendly products and services from local vendors.
• Discover artisans who incorporate recycled, upcycled, or sustainable materials into their work.
• Enjoy performances by artists whose creations inspire environmentally responsible themes.

Event Details

• When: Sunday, April 13, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Where: Farmers Market Pavilion, Downtown Eugene

For questions, please contact Mitra Gruwell, Community Engagement Coordinator at MECCA, at a@materials-exchange.org“>mitra@materials-exchange.org, or visit www.wastewiselane.org/earth.

About the Organizers:
This event is brought to you by a coalition of sustainability-focused organizations, including MECCA, BRING, Shift Community Cycles, City of Eugene Waste Prevention, and Waste Wise Lane County, with funding provided from a City of Eugene Cultural Services Downtown Program Fund Grant and the Lane Council of Governments.

Early registration ticket pricing for Oregon’s largest Urban and Community Forestry Conference has been extended to midnight on Sunday, April 13.

The one-day conference will be held again this year on Thursday, May 15 at Venue 252 in downtown Eugene.  It is put on by the non-profit organization Oregon Community Trees in partnership with the Oregon Department of Forestry and USDA Forest Service. Co-presenting sponsors are OUR Community Forestry and Portland Urban Forestry.

The conference’s theme – Growing Together: Collaboration and Diverse Voices in Urban Forestry – will feature speakers and panelists providing insights into:

• How those working to extend the many benefits of shade-tree canopy more widely can do so in a more equitable manner by collaborating with communities.
• How people currently under-represented in urban forestry and arboriculture can be recruited into the profession and helped to flourish within it.

Keynote speaker Christine Carmichael, PhD, will be flying in from Michigan to share historic, current, and future trends in diversity, equity, and inclusion in the urban forestry field.

There will also be panels discussing workforce development and collaborating with diverse communities, including Oregon’s Tribal nations. OUR Community Forestry, which is co-sponsoring this year’s conference, will also share its experience working with communities in southern Oregon, including Talent, a large portion of which was destroyed by the 2020 Almeda Fire. Continuing education credits are being sought for the conference.

Early registration is $150 until April 13 and $180 after that date ($170 if the person registering lives or works in a Tree City USA community). Students can register for $80 at any time before registration ends May 8. Price includes a boxed lunch and a social hour beverage and snacks following the conference. To register, go to Growing Together: Collaboration and Diverse Voices in Urban Forestry

About Oregon Community Trees – The mission of this non-profit, Oregon-based organization is to promote healthy urban and community forests through leadership, education, awareness and advocacy.

Lane County Government 

Our friends at Eugene Water & Electric Board are hosting an in-person and online Financial Preparedness for Disasters Seminar in April. Learn more about how to document your home, review your insurance coverage, and be better prepared to recover financially from a natural disaster.

EWEB and the City of Eugene are working together to enhance community resilience by helping residents “Be 2 Weeks Ready”—not just with emergency supplies, but financially, too.Whether you attend in person or online, this free seminar is an opportunity to take control of your financial future and gain peace of mind.Now is the time to take action and be financially prepared for disaster. The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation will share simple steps to help you recover more quickly and completely from disaster.

Learn how to create a home inventory, organize financial records, review your insurance coverage, and get the most out of the claims process.Planning ahead can minimize stress, reduce financial hardship, and make recovery smoother and more manageable. Take advantage of this opportunity to protect your financial future.

Join the event in person at:
EWEB Roosevelt Operations Center
4200 Roosevelt BLVD
Eugene, OR 97402Or register to attend virtually at:
https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/…/6c5e9c79-a82b…

Presented by the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation. Hosted by Eugene Water & Electric Board

Catholic Community Services of Lane County is seeking donations of new men’s underwear and gently used pants for men and women to support our neighbors in need.

Your generosity can make a real difference in someone’s life. If you have items to give, please consider donating today! Drop-off Location: 1025 G Street | Springfield, OR Hours: M-F 9a-12pThank you for helping us serve our community with dignity and care!

Mark your calendars! We’re collecting essential items to help restore dignity to local families in need:• Razors & shaving supplies • New socks • Feminine hygiene products • Toothbrushes, toothpaste & floss • Shampoo & conditioner • Soap & body wash • Cleaning supplies • Tissues • Diapers & baby wipesFind a complete list of needed items and all drop-off sites at http://www.ccslc.org/squeaky-clean-hygiene-driveYour donations create ripple effects of hope throughout our community. Get your items ready now—together, we’ll make a real difference for our neighbors in need.

SPRING INTO ACTION: DONATE TO OPERATION REFILL THE STOCKPILE

Operation Fill the Stockpile at First Christian Church- where community members can drop off donations and enjoy refreshments.

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.

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.”

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.

Eugene Springfield Fire  · Eugene Springfield Fire is now a regional training center in EMS.

We will be hosting several opportunities for continuing education and certification in a wide array of EMS disciplines. The upcoming NAEMT courses available at ESF are listed in the graphic. Contact Scott Edinger at sedinger@eugene-or.gov or (541)682-7100 to learn more and sign up.

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

First Sundays – Native American Arts & Crafts Makers

First Sundays – Native American Arts & Crafts Makers 

1st Sundays of the month 10am to 4pm

Farmers Market Pavilion 85 E. 8th Ave, Downtown Eugene

Free & open to the public

Authentically made Native American arts & crafts makes this event unique. We transform the Pavilion into an event of Native American & Indigenous cultural sharing and a gallery of Fine Art, beadwork, Navajo made jewelry, crafts, beautiful wood carvings, and more. Featuring: Native American Cultural Performance at 1pm — www.naacm.org

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)

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

America 250 Oregon Commission Encourages Participation in Two Lights for Tomorrow – Oregon Historical Society 

— On the night of April 18, 1775, Paul Revere, William Dawes, and others rode to Lexington, Massachusetts, warning minutemen and households about the approach of British forces. Behind him, lanterns in the steeple of the Old North Church were shining the agreed upon code made famous by poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, “One if by land, and two if by sea.” The next day, April 19, were the battles of Lexington and Concord — and the colonists were well prepared.

As part of the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the America 250 Oregon Commission joins semiquincentennial commissions across the country in Two Lights for Tomorrow, a multi-state initiative that reminds citizens everywhere that our shared history is grounded in coming together to build a more perfect union.

Oregonians are called to participate by shining two lights on April 18, 2025, in their homes and community spaces.

“The America 250 Oregon Commission hopes that communities across the state will join us in Two Lights for Tomorrow to kick off the semiquincentennial commemorations,” said Kerry Tymchuk, Executive Director of the Oregon Historical Society and Chairman of the America 250 Oregon Commission. “Any kind of light can be used in any size building, be it a home, office, museum, community center, or government building. Using the imagery of shining lights as a uniting call to action, Two Lights for Tomorrow reminds us of the importance of working together for a promising future.”

If you or your organization is interested in getting involved with the America 250 Oregon commemoration, please contact egon.250@ohs.org“>oregon.250@ohs.org or sign up for the official America 250 Oregon email list.

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About the America 250 Oregon Commission – The mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

Another Missing Woman in Oregon Who’s Car Has Been Found But She is Still Missing

Search and rescue teams are looking for a 29-year-old Klamath Falls woman reported missing out of Harney County last week. The Harney County Sheriff’s Office says Kaylee Birt was last seen leaving The Fields Station in Fields, Oregon around 8:30 a.m. on Friday.

Reports indicate Kaylee was on a trip from Klamath Falls headed to Iowa, driving a golden colored 2008 Chevy Malibu with Oregon whale license plate #GW21073.

According to an update from the sheriff’s office, her car was found in a remote part of Harney County on Sunday, but she has not yet been located.

Search efforts are resuming Monday morning with the assistance of Lake County Search & Rescue, local ranchers on horseback, side-by-sides and four wheelers, as well as Oregon State Police and Grant County Search & Rescue with K-9s.  

Kaylee is described as 5 feet 2 inches and 120 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes. She has green and brown glasses and was last seen wearing a long-sleeve green shirt and white sweatpants with a Christmas tree design on them. She has a tattoo on her right wrist of a lighthouse and another one on her foot of a Christian fish and cross with Romans 8:31 Bible verse.

Anyone who has seen Kaylee or knows where she might be is asked to call 911 or contact the Harney County Sheriff’s Office at 541-573-6156.

There are a string of these cases in Oregon where the missing women’s vehicles are found, but they are still missing to this day.

Oregon GOP chair resigns after ‘deeply troubling’ revelations

The newly minted chair of the Oregon Republican Party stepped down Wednesday, amid revelations of ongoing personal financial woes and troubling allegations from a 16-year-old divorce.

Jerry Cummings, a pastor from Columbia County, said in a letter to party members Wednesday that the negative publicity from those matters would undercut his ability to help his party win back ground in the state.

“My position as chairman is not more important than my position as a dad,” Cummings wrote. “Given the choice between resuming a heated battle of mudslinging with the mother of my children in order to ‘hold on to the gavel’ or stepping down from party leadership to protect my children: that’s not even a hard call.”

The quick fall from party influence comes less than two months into Cummings’s tenure atop the Oregon GOP. It follows a story from the Oregon Journalism Project on Tuesday that detailed a litany of court proceedings that cast him in a negative light.

One of those is a 2009 divorce case that contains allegations Cummings’ ex-wife used to obtain a restraining order against him. They include claims of sexual violence, among other things.

Cummings has denied the allegations and wrote Wednesday that he has been “on record defending against these things for a decade and a half.” Court records show he was never charged with a crime based on his ex-wife’s account.

More recent legal troubles involve two 2024 civil filings that call Cummings’ fiscal responsibility into question. One case suggests he deposited invalid checks at OnPoint Community Credit Union, then withdrew more than $17,000 that didn’t actually exist. The other accuses Cummings of taking out $93,000 in business loans that he failed to make payments on.

The financial cases present a significant concern for a person at the helm of a political party. Cummings’ responsibilities as GOP chair included fundraising, and donors were unlikely to trust him with their checks after the lawsuits came to light.

With his departure, Oregon GOP Vice Chair Connie Whelchel has been elevated to the role of chair. In a statement, Whelchel called the new information about Cummings “deeply troubling.”

“These revelations were not known to the Executive Committee or Party leadership prior to their publication, and they are in no way reflective of the values or standards we hold,” said Whelchel, who lives in Deschutes County. “While these developments are deeply unfortunate, they will not derail our mission.”

The state GOP has churned through party leaders in the last five years, and Cummings’ resignation comes with a familiar twist: He blames his demise on fellow party members.

“I can’t honestly say that stepping down as chairman will be what is best for the party as it may embolden enemies from within and without to keep doing this to us,” Cummings wrote. “It was a Republican who called [reporter Nigel] Jaquiss with the story.”

Whelchel is now the sixth person to helm the Oregon GOP since 2021. That year, then-state Sen. Dallas Heard won election to the role, toppling long-time chair Bill Currier.

But Heard’s time as chair was short-lived. A year into his term, he stepped down, complaining of “communist psychological warfare tactics” within the party.

In Heard’s place, party vice-chair Herman Baertschiger assumed the leadership role, but he stepped away after roughly three months. That elevated Justin Hwang, who was the GOP’s vice-chair under Baertschiger.

Hwang became the party’s first-ever Korean American leader, and offered a measure of stability. He decided against running for re-election at the last minute this year, following an election where Republicans gave up supermajorities in the Oregon House and Senate and lost a congressional seat in the state.

Cummings won election to the chair role in February, in a competitive race that also featured current party secretary, Jo Rae Perkins; Gabriel Buehler, chair of the Washington County GOP; Angelita Sanchez, a city councilor in Sweet Home; and Ben Edtl, a recent state House candidate. (SOURCE)

Oregon Delegation Urges Reversal of Cuts, Planned Layoffs at Social Security That Hurt State’s Seniors

Letter from Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Hoyle, Salinas, Bynum, Dexter cites disastrous decisions in Social Security field offices in Warrenton, La Grande and The Dalles

Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today led his Democratic colleagues in the Oregon delegation – Senator Jeff Merkley and U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Janelle Bynum (OR-05) and Maxine Dexter (OR-03) – in urging the Social Security Administration to reverse its severe layoffs and threats of worse to come for services to the state’s seniors and people with disabilities.

In their letter to the Social Security Administration’s Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek, the Oregon lawmakers cited agency data showing staff in the Warrenton and La Grande field offices declined by at least 25 percent as a result of agency decisions to reduce its workforce. They also noted the field office in The Dalles has experienced a substantial drop in workers.

“These three rural field offices already faced staffing shortages before these cuts, with just twenty combined employees serving more than 232,000 Oregonians in ten counties and parts of Washington and Idaho,” the lawmakers wrote, noting how nearly every American interacts with the agency at pivotal moments in their lives.

“Access to in-person services is especially important for each of those moments, especially for people who have difficulty speaking by phone, who lack reliable internet access, and who have difficulty understanding program rules,” they wrote. “Any disruption in service, especially interruption of benefit payments, can be financially devastating for families. For many of these Oregonians, field offices are often their only channel of service. These field offices are located in predominantly rural areas, with the nearest field office more than 50 miles away from many users.”

“Additionally, more than 400,000 Oregonians lack internet access at home because the state’s size and rugged terrain make it costly and difficult to build broadband infrastructure,” the lawmakers continued.  “Without in-person services, if those Oregonians have difficulty using a phone they are 100 percent cut off from their benefits.”

Nearly 1 million Oregonians collect Social Security benefits, and the lawmakers’ letter noted that the agency’s reckless actions have already inflicted a devastating toll on those Oregon beneficiaries and tens of millions more across America.

“Simply put, your decisions jeopardize Oregonians’ access to their Social Security benefits without providing any substantive plans to provide quality service to these communities,” they wrote. “We urge you to immediately reverse these changes and work to rebuild SSA’s workforce so it can serve the millions of Oregonians and Americans who depend on Social Security.”

A copy of the entire letter is here.

Central Oregon cultural events canceled over safety concerns

In Central Oregon, cultural groups are pulling back from organizing large public events due to concerns of participants being detained or deported by the Trump administration, with community organizers citing fears of violence against Black, Latino and Asian people.

This week, organizers announced separately that two marquee cultural events have been canceled. Press releases for both Latino Fest and Juneteenth cited concerns over safety for participants.

“There is heightened fear among immigrant community members due to recent immigration enforcement actions, anti-immigrant rhetoric, or rumors of raids or targeting,” Latino Community Association Executive Director Catalina Sánchez Frank said in a statement.

The nonprofit organizes Latino Fest in Madras every September, except for 2020 and 2021, when COVID paused nearly all community events.

The Father’s Group released a separate statement announcing Juneteenth would also not take place this year. The Black cultural event usually takes place in Bend’s Drake Park.

“In today’s increasingly volatile political climate, with rising incidents of racial aggression and threats—particularly toward Black and Latino communities—safety must come first,” according to a statement from the group.

Central Oregon has been dealing with a steady drip of high-profile racist incidents in recent years, from racial slurs being screamed repeatedly during a Bend public meeting to rocks being thrown at a mariachi band in Redmond.

Bend Equity and Inclusion Director Andrés Portela III said he’s grateful LCA “decided to just pivot for this year and think about what does the future look like,” calling the cancellation a step toward community preservation and healing.

In late January, LCA said a man was detained by ICE in Central Oregon. Sánchez Frank told OPB at the time that the organization was rethinking holding Central Oregon’s biggest Latino cultural heritage festival, which typically draws thousands of people from across the state.

“Do we want to have that? Do we want to have the community gather at one place at one time? I don’t know,” she said.

That was about the time Ana Bueno said she started getting calls from people asking about Latino Fest. Bueno is a client services manager for LCA in Madras and the event committee lead.

Last month, the organization internally decided to cancel the event. Latino people in Madras reported feeling fearful of leaving their homes to go to work or go shopping, Bueno said, and organizations were starting to pull out of the event.

Like Juneteenth, Latino Fest is held at a city park. Bueno said moving the event to a more secure location is not possible. There’s nowhere else in Madras able to accommodate the crowds.

She said moving the event to a different town has been discussed in the past, however, she said the event belongs to the Latino community of Madras who have helped put it on.

In previous years, she said, people have protested the event while waving Trump flags, and nothing major has happened. But, she said, this year feels different.

This isn’t the only time a cultural event has been canceled due to fears of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In 2019, a Latino music festival was canceled in Jerome, Idaho after speculation about potential ICE activity.

This year, just a short drive away in Twin Falls, Idaho, that community’s Latino Fest is expected to take place. Other Latino cultural events are still scheduled to happen in both urban and rural Pacific Northwest areas.

Organizers confirmed Latino Cultural Festival in Hillsboro, Fiesta Mexicana in Woodburn and Fiestas Mexicanas in Wenatchee, Washington, are still on track to take place.

“We believe that our people need, more than ever, to relate in diverse events that can unite our community,” said Martha Zaldivar with Fiestas Mexicanas.

Large events like Cinco de Mayo and El Grito in Portland and MEXAMNW Festival in Seattle are moving forward, according to organizers.

“It’s always disheartening to hear about other cultural celebrations being canceled — these events play such a vital role in honoring and uplifting our communities,” said Karla Nahmmacher with the MEXAMNW Festival.

Last year, the Asian Pacific Islanders Collective in Central Oregon made the decision to make their Spring Festival event by invitation only.

APIC Co-founder huong tran said the decision was made after some attendees disrespected and mocked authentic cultural dances and regalia during a previous event.

This year, the February celebration took place in a house of worship and was not widely publicized.

Just weeks before the event, President Donald Trump had signed an executive order lifting a ban on federal agents entering houses of worship and schools in order to make arrests.

At the beginning of the APIC event in Bend, tran asked for people to volunteer to interact first with any federal immigration officers, should they arrive.

One by one, people stood to volunteer. A round of applause followed.

Kenneth Adams, executive director of the Father’s Group, said it’s not possible to move Juneteenth to a secure private place. An average of 15,000 people have attended the free weekend event in past years, Adams said, which makes it hard to find a suitable alternative venue.

Adams said in addition to safety concerns, the national political climate informed the decision to cancel Juneteenth in Bend.

Like Bueno, Adams also said part of the decision came from a gut feeling.

“It’s better to be safe than sorry,” he said. “I literally have witnessed people being accosted just for walking down the street, and getting yelled at because they look a certain way, or they come from a certain country.”

Last weekend, protests against the Trump administration took place across the county. Local media outlets reported more than 1,000 people turned out in Bend. OPB documented the moment as hundreds of people crowded a downtown intersection. It was the largest protest some attendees said they’ve ever seen in Bend, including Sisters resident Annemarie Crosier.

Born in the Netherlands, she said showing up to the event was important to her because her Dutch grandmother had told her stories about people being disappeared by the Nazis.

Crosier noted the high number or white people attending the Bend protest.

“Black people have been putting their bodies on the sidewalk, so to speak, for decades, and it’s really time for white people to show up in force,” she said. (SOURCE)

Oregon rejects Trump administration’s school funding threat over DEI policies

Top officials in Oregon are refusing to sign off on a demand from the U.S. Department of Education that requires states to abandon policies related to diversity, equity and inclusion if they want to keep receiving federal funding for schools.

The four-page letter from the federal education department says “the continued use of illegal DEI practices may subject the individual or entity using such practices to serious consequences,” such as eliminating federal funding for state education departments or school districts.

Earlier this week, Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal pushed back against the letter. Now, Gov. Tina Kotek and Director of the Oregon Department of Education Charlene Williams are doing the same.

“The Trump Administration’s threat to shortchange Oregon students hurts children and families and undermines the dedication and work of our educators,” Kotek wrote in a statement Thursday. “We will not tolerate this unwarranted and unlawful attempt to take away resources promised to Oregon students and paid for by the tax dollars we send to the federal government.”

In its letter demanding an abandonment of DEI policies, the U.S. Department of Education cites the Supreme Court ruling in SFFA v. Harvard. While that case involves race-conscious admissions policies at colleges and universities, leaders in the Trump Administration are using the decision as a basis for outlawing diversity policies “more broadly.”

Both Oregon and Washington officials argue that the states have already submitted the certifications and affirmations as required by federal law. In Oregon’s response letter, Williams argues that the demands in the April 4 letter from the U.S. Department of Education are “duplicative, unnecessary, and unduly burdensome.”

Williams’ response continues: “Oregon remains fiercely committed to its values of diversity, equity and inclusion, and we celebrate our differences and common humanity.” The letter claims a “moral and ethical obligation” to defend public education, and to ensure “children can learn and thrive in safe, welcoming, and supportive environments.”

Oregon’s response cites a handful of court cases that officials say suggest the need for regulatory processes to validate the sudden shift in education policy implied by the federal government’s letter. The state’s letter also says the demand from the federal government is “unclear” because terms such as “illegal DEI” are not defined.

In emphasizing the abrupt change underway since President Donald Trump returned to office, ODE’s letter noted a different attitude from education leaders during Trump’s first term. The letter said “former Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos informed USDOE staff in 2020 that ‘[d]iversity and inclusion are the cornerstones of high organizational performance.‘”

Last month, Trump initiated an effort to close the education department entirely, on the heels of starting the process of firing numerous federal education staff.

The response from state leaders comes as local school officials in Oregon have been reaching out to parents and staff. In a message to the North Clackamas School District community Thursday, Superintendent Shay James reinforced support for values that “build relationships with students that honor their cultural heritage, foster their well-being, and engage each student to reach their full potential.”

James encouraged teachers to “continue focusing on what we can control: building trusting relationships with students and families, providing excellent instruction, and modeling calm and care.” (SOURCE)

Oregon could lose millions in childhood vaccine funding

Federal funds for childhood vaccines in Oregon could be cut by nearly $9 million, part of more than $2 billion in broader cancellations of pandemic-era federal public health spending, per government data.

Why it matters: Federal money helps fight preventable and sometimes deadly diseases like measles, which is now spreading in several parts of the country.

Zoom in: The cuts would amount to $8.9 million out of nearly $53 million total in public health grants awarded to the state by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

What they’re saying: “We’re talking about contractors losing their contracts and not being able to get paid, people who were working on vaccination programs not there anymore, and all of the supporting infrastructure that these funds provided evaporated in an instant,” says Josh Michaud, associate director for global health policy at health policy research and news organization KFF.

• States also get separate federal money for immunization efforts through programs like Vaccines for Children, Michaud notes — though many were counting on these grants as well.

Yes, but: A federal judge temporarily blocked the cuts last week after nearly two dozen states, including Oregon, filed a lawsuit against HHS. (SOURCE)

OHA empowering communities to reduce tobacco harms statewide 

New report chronicles more than 25 years of progress — though work remains 

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority is making steady progress in reducing harmful effects of tobacco use through education and community partnerships, according to a new report. 

The 2023-25 Tobacco Prevention and Education Program (TPEP) annual report shows gains have been made in lowering tobacco use over more than a quarter century, through ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting public health.  

However, tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in Oregon, claiming more than 8,000 lives each year and contributing to chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.

“Our commitment to reducing tobacco use is unwavering,” said Naomi Adeline-Biggs, director of the OHA Public Health Division. “Through the Tobacco Prevention and Education Program, we have made significant strides in protecting the health of Oregonians, and we will continue to build on this legacy.”

The report shows that the tobacco industry “focuses its ads, offers and store displays toward specific groups.”

For example, about one in five people targeted in this strategy have household incomes of less than $20,000 per year. An identical percentage of targeted tobacco users report being in poor mental health.

Widespread evidence shows that tobacco marketing causes youth tobacco use and makes it harder for people who are addicted to nicotine to quit.

Another marketing strategy involves the addition of menthol – a flavor additive in cigarettes — that creates a cooling sensation in the throat when the user inhales, making cigarettes feel less harsh, more appealing and easier to smoke, especially for youth and young adults. Tobacco companies manufacture menthol cigarettes to attract potential smokers, especially among communities of color and youth.

Menthol cigarettes contribute to greater nicotine dependence in youth and young adults than non-menthol cigarettes. About 61% of African Americans in Oregon who smoke report using menthol cigarettes, compared to 17% of White residents.

The tobacco industry has been marketing menthol products to African Americans through targeted campaigns since the 1970s. They advertise and promote menthol-flavored tobacco in African American neighborhoods and use campaigns that exploit cultural hallmarks and stereotypes.

For example, Newport, a menthol-flavored cigarette brand, is commonly cheaper to buy in areas with more African American residents.

Youth and teenagers are especially attracted to the flavored products. Roughly 75% of eighth graders and 11th graders who use these tobacco products report using flavored tobacco or vaping products.

Other report findings include:

• Sustained reduction in tobacco use—Oregon has experienced a 46% decrease in adult smoking rates and a 70% reduction in per-capita cigarette sales since TPEP’s inception in 1996.
• Community-centered solutions—TPEP has focused on addressing health inequities by investing more than 65% of its funding directly into local communities, supporting culturally relevant prevention and cessation programs.
• Youth-focused initiatives—The program has implemented strategies to reduce youth tobacco use, including anti-vaping education, mentorship programs and alternatives to suspension for nicotine use.

In 2021, the Oregon Legislature created the Tobacco Retail License Program to ensure compliance with sales laws. Since its inception, youth tobacco use has dropped from 26% in 2022 to 14% in 2024.

This video shows how Youth Adult Inspectors with OHA’s Tobacco Retail Licensing Program are getting involved in reducing retail sales to minors.

OHA’s Tobacco Prevention and Education Program has further implemented initiatives that have significantly decreased tobacco use among Oregonians.

This latest report underscores the program’s achievements and outlines ongoing initiatives aimed at improving health.

Key to the momentum behind the state’s tobacco reduction efforts has been the development of collaborative efforts with community partners to further reduce tobacco-related harm and promote health equity across the state.

One such partner, AntFarm, a community-based organization in rural Clackamas County, has a robust mentorship program to help youth quit tobacco. It does this by creating spaces and projects that give youth a sense of belonging.

Youth-created videos highlight the organization’s work.  

Kim Wheeler, director of Youth and Family Services at AntFarm, emphasized the importance of these efforts: “We empower youth and families to breathe freely, live strong and healthy lives while building a future without tobacco or vaping through bringing awareness and education to our communities,” she said. 

Quitting tobacco makes a difference – and quitting is different for everyone. That’s why there are a variety of free options across Oregon. 

• You can get free counseling with a coach by visiting the Oregon Tobacco Quitline, or by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW, or texting “READY” to 34191.
• You can visit a pharmacist near you who will work with you to build a personalized treatment plan and provide follow up to see how the treatment plan is working.
• You can also learn how to quit in your own way, with or without the help of a coach or pharmacist, by visiting this

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.  

For more information about tobacco prevention visit the OHA website. 

Oregon completes post-pandemic Medicaid renewals; 83% maintained benefits  

Renewals were largely equitable across different groups, with some exceptions

SALEM, Ore. — Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic upended the world, concerted state efforts to keep people covered have helped about 83% of Oregon Medicaid members maintain public health benefits, according to a new analysis of Oregon’s COVID-19 Federal Public Health Emergency Unwinding Project from Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). The years-long project wrapped up at the end of February and its final results were recently presented to the Oregon Health Policy Board.

“Over two years, OHA and ODHS teamed up to help a significant number of Oregonians maintain their essential health benefits following the pandemic,” said OHA Interim Director Kris Kautz. “Our thoughtful collaboration has made it possible for more people to receive the care they need to live healthy, full lives. I am tremendously proud of OHA and ODHS staff for this monumental accomplishment.” 

Jointly funded by states and the federal government, Medicaid provides no-cost health coverage to low-income adults, children, pregnant women, older adults, people with disabilities and others. Oregon Health Plan (OHP) is the state’s Medicaid program, and it covers nearly 1.5 million people — including a third of Oregon’s adults and half of its children. OHA manages OHP. ODHS helps people apply for benefits, determines applicant eligibility and provides maintenance of benefits through redeterminations.

“Access to health care is critical for people to take care of themselves, their families and our communities,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht. “By combining our efforts into one project, ODHS and OHA were far more effective in guiding people through the Medicaid renewals process, especially for those groups at higher risk of losing essential health care such as people with disabilities and older Oregonians.” 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, states were required to keep nearly all Medicaid members continuously enrolled between 2020 and 2023. Starting in the spring of 2023, federal legislation required states to resume normal processes to verify that enrolled members met Medicaid eligibility criteria. Oregon concluded its Medicaid renewal process last month.

Between April 1, 2023, and Feb. 28, 2025: 

• 1,169,042 Medicaid members in Oregon (80.3%) kept their full benefits.
• 40,563 people (2.8%) had benefits reduced. While these members lost full OHP coverage, they were able to continue Medicare Savings Programs, which help pay Medicare costs, or a dental-only Medicaid benefit.
• 247,104 people (16.9%) were found ineligible and ended benefits.
• 130,000 individuals who lost OHP coverage were referred to the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace to obtain private health insurance. During the same period, 32,363 consumers made Marketplace plan selections. It is important to note that not all Marketplace enrollment is attributable to OHP renewal determinations.

Oregon achieved largely equitable outcomes during the Medicaid renewal process, although some populations had renewal rates that were slightly below the statewide average of 83.1%.

For example, 82% of people who identified as non-binary renewed their OHP benefits, as did 81% of Asians, Middle Easterners or North Africans, and 80% of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.

Renewal and response rates for age and disability-based Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs exceeded overall averages.

High renewal rates

Oregon’s efforts resulted in one of the highest Medicaid renewal rates in the nation. Reasons for the state’s high Medicaid renewal rate included:  

• OHP Bridge, a new category of OHP with higher income limits, launched July 1, 2024. About 34,000 people are currently enrolled in OHP Bridge.
• During the unwinding process, Oregonians had up to 90 days to respond and 60 days’ advance notice of any closure. Oregon gave members longer to respond than any other state.
• A robust, statewide network of community partners, combined with tools like earned media and paid advertising, helped spread awareness of the renewal process.

After having their Medicaid benefits renewed during the pandemic unwinding process, most adults have two years of continuous eligibility for Medicaid benefits. While this does not directly affect Oregon’s renewal rate, it prevents the churn of on-and-off benefits between renewals and allowed staff to provide more support to people during the unwinding process. Oregon is the only state to give most adults two years of continuous eligibility for Medicaid benefits. Oregon also offers young children benefits until their sixth birthday.

“Achieving Oregon’s high renewal rate was a team effort among Oregon’s executive and legislative leadership, our policy staff, our eligibility staff and partners who supported Oregonians during the unwinding period,” said Pakseresht, the ODHS director.

For more information about the outcomes of Oregon’s COVID-19 Federal Public Health Emergency Unwinding Project, check out the project’s final information sheet and slidedeck.

Need help managing your OHP benefits?

1. Learn more about OHP.
2. Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075. All relay calls are accepted, and help is available in multiple languages.
3. Visit or call a local Oregon Department of Human Services office. People can find their local office at https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/Pages/office-finder.aspx.
4. Visit an expert for free, in-person help. To find one near you visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp (English) or orhim.info/ayuda (Spanish).
5. Log into your ONE Online account at benefits.oregon.gov or download the Oregon ONE Mobile app via the app store on your smartphone.

Don’t qualify for OHP and need medical coverage? Learn which insurance coverage options are available to you at OregonHealthCare.gov (English) or orhim.info/comprar (Spanish).

The 72nd annual Medford Pear Blossom Festival kicks off on Friday!

This longstanding Rogue Valley tradition features a multitude of events, including the parade, street fair, tournaments, and more! For event details and street closures https://www.medfordoregon.gov/…/72nd-Annual-Pear…

State and Federal Taxes are due April 15, but if you still haven’t filed your 2024 returns, the state of Oregon is sharing some options to submit them for free The Oregon Department of Revenue is encouraging taxpayers to submit their returns as soon as possible.

Nearly 1.2 million Oregonians have already filed their state personal income tax returns this year, but more than 1 million Oregonians have yet to submit their tax year 2024 returns.  E-filing is the fastest way for taxpayers to get their tax refund.

The Department also says electronically filing(e-filing) your taxes and requesting a refund through direct deposit is a quicker way to get your return. Anyone looking to track their return in Oregon can use the Department’s Where’s My Refund? tool to check Taxpayers can file their federal return directly with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) using their Direct File software, and file their state return using Direct File Oregon.

Both programs are free. Other services offering free tax preparation assistance can be found on the Revenue website.

The Oregon Department of Revenue has added features to the “Where’s My Refund” tool.

Users can learn more about the status of their refund, they can see when additional information is needed, and the website is easier to navigate. To use the tool, taxpayers need to create a login at Revenue Online. https://revenueonline.dor.oregon.gov/tap/_/

Oregon Employment Department Fixing Tax Document Problem — A mistake by the Oregon Employment Department means up to 12-thousand people who received unemployment last year might need to file updated tax forms.

The problem happened during the switch from the old computer system to Frances Online. Incorrect 1099-G forms were sent to some people who received unemployment benefits last year.

The Oregon Employment Department reports a review of approximately 12,000 tax forms containing inaccurate information is complete. Those 1099-G tax forms were sent out to people who received unemployment benefits in 2024 and were to be used in state and federal tax returns. OED said the errors impacted about five percent of all the 1099-G forms issued by the department.

“We’ve had more than 100 OED staff working through an intensive process of validating and reissuing forms in order to complete this work,” said OED Director David Gerstenfeld. “I appreciate all of the staff who are working on this for impacted Oregonians. We apologize for the inconvenience this has caused some of our customers.”

The department is going through a process to identify all errors, validate tax forms and contact affected customers. The Oregon Employment Department has details on its website: https://www.oregon.gov/employ/NewsAndMedia/Press%20Releases%20Archives/2025-03-27-Errors-to-Unemployment-Insurance-Tax-Forms.pdf

Oregon AG Rayfield will host town halls about federal oversight in Eugene, Portland, Bend

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield plans to travel the state throughout the spring and summer hosting town halls about federal oversight, his office announced Tuesday. 

Rayfield has sued the Trump administration at least 10 times since taking office, including a lawsuit filed Tuesday against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for abruptly stopping $12 billion in public health grants to states.

“In my first three months in office, we’ve established clear priorities: challenging federal overreach, fighting back against corporate greed, and standing up for veterans, students, and working families,” Rayfield said in a statement. “These forums will create an ongoing dialogue with Oregonians about federal accountability and how we’re working to protect their rights.”

He also has joined Democratic members of Oregon’s congressional delegation and Legislature at their own town halls. In March, he traveled to Arizona to gather stories with three other Democratic attorneys general at a town hall in Phoenix. 

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes will join Rayfield at his second planned forum, on his 100th day in office on April 10. They’ll participate in an event at 6 p.m. in Portland, at a yet-to-be-announced location.

House Speaker Julie Fahey, D-Eugene, will join Rayfield at 6:30 p.m. April 9 at the University of Oregon’s Prince Lucien Campbell building.

And he’ll host a meeting at 10 a.m. in Bend on May 3, with no location announced yet. Rayfield plans to host additional meetings throughout the summer, according to the Department of Justice. 

Easter Bunny Express, April 19th! Get your tickets now

It’s spring, the flowers are blooming and the bunnies are hopping—time for a delightful spring train ride behind a steam locomotive!

Polson #2 is coming out of the Enginehouse to pull all three runs of the Easter Bunny Express Saturday, April 19. Trains leave at 1pm, 2:30pm and 4 pm. Come along to smell the flowers and take selfies with our Easter Bunny. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute ride along the Willamette River in Portland to Oaks Park and back.

Hop aboard the first ride of the season! Get your tickets at https://orhf.org/saturday-train-rides/.

Looking to swim or take a boat tour at Crater Lake National Park? This summer is your last chance to do so for a while.

The National Park Service announced that the Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only allowed access to the lakeshore, is undergoing maintenance until summer 2029.  The NPS said the project “proposes to rehabilitate the trail and related infrastructure to ensure safe access to the lake, provide needed visitor services, and to protect the environment.  

Every year, thousands of park visitors hike this trail to gain access to lakeshore. The Cleetwood Cove Marina is the launch point for the concession-provided boat tours of Crater Lake and the park’s boats. This project proposes to rehabilitate the trail and related infrastructure to ensure safe access to the lake, provide needed visitor services, and to protect the environment. This project will address critical safety issues with the Cleetwood Cove Trail and Marina.

Work proposed includes, rehabilitation of the entire 1.1 mile trail including improvements to trail tread and retaining walls.  Rockfall scaling and mitigation along identified high risk zones. Removal and replacement of the failed bulkhead/dock with a structurally stable marina.  Replacing the outdated and undersized composting toilets located near the marina.

The planning, design, and compliance are completed for this project. The next step is solicitation of the construction contract. Construction is set to start in 2026, with trail closures planned for the duration of the 2027 and 2028 summer seasons. The NPS says boat tours will not be provided during this time. The renovated trail has a slated reopening of summer 2029.

The Oregon House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill on Thursday to change the eviction process of squatters by homeowners.

House Bill 3522 allows the removal of squatters using the standard eviction process, known in Oregon as Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED), without any proof of forced entry or an existing landlord-tenant relationship. If the bill passes, a lease doesn’t need to be in place for homeowners to follow the standard eviction process.

“Our homes are our citadels and we need to protect what is rightfully ours,” Rep. Boomer Wright, a Republican representing Coos Bay and the chief co-sponsor of the bill, said in a statement.

Without HB 3522, state law requires property owners to take civil legal action against the squatter in a process known as ejectment, which chief co-sponsor Rep. Hai Pham said “costs individual homeowners thousands of dollars in costs and often takes months to process.”

“We need to give immediate relief to property owners and more tools to remove unauthorized occupants,” Pham, a Democrat representing South Hillsboro and West Beaverton, said. The bill is now moving to the Senate for consideration.

Seeking public comment on proposed changes to day-use parking permits

SALEM, Oregon—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public comment on a proposal to expand the 25% out-of-state camping surcharge to parking permit fees and eliminate the two-year parking permit.

The out-of-state camping surcharge was enacted by state law in 2022 for RV campsites, and OPRD expanded it to all site types for out-of-state campers for stays beginning July 1, 2025.

The proposed rule change would add the 25% out-of-state surcharge to parking permit fees. Based on current rates, out-of-state visitors would pay $12.50 per day or $37.50 for an annual parking permit. If approved, the change would begin July 1, 2025.

Oregon residents would continue to pay the same parking permit rate of $10 per day or $30 for an annual permit.

The proposed rule change would also eliminate the sales of 24-month parking permits starting in 2026. Existing permits would be honored until they expire. The 12-month annual permit will continue to be sold.

These changes would help parks more consistently implement the surcharge as well as track annual revenue and budgets for parks in the future. It’s part of an ongoing effort to help keep pace with rising costs while continuing to provide exceptional outdoor experiences.

Public comments on the proposed rule change will be accepted through 5 p.m. April 30, 2025:

• Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx
• Mail: OPRD Department, attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
• Email: D.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov

A public hearing will also be held 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24, 2025:

• Register to attend the virtual hearing at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__1Zw_JurTy-PYpxWhGra2w#/registration

Once the public comment period ends, the proposal with any incorporated updates is slated to go to Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission in June for possible adoption.

Fraud Fighter Summit and Resource Fair set for April 12 in Medford

– The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) and Oregon AARP are hosting the Fraud Fighter Summit and Resource Fair on Saturday, April 12, in Medford.

The free event, which runs from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., will be at the Smullin Health Education Center, 2825 E. Barnett Road, in Medford. Doors open at 9 a.m. Parking is available on site and a light lunch will be provided.

Joining DFR and AARP will be representatives from the Federal Trade Commission and the Construction Contractors Board, who will provide insights on current scams. Attendees will learn tips on how to protect themselves against fraud.

They will hear from DFR Administrator TK Keen; Oregon AARP State Director Bandana Shrestha; Oregon AARP Director of Advocacy and Outreach Carmel Snyder; Construction Contractors Board Communications and Outreach Coordinator Tori Garcia; Federal Trade Commission Regional Director Chuck Harwood; and Doug Shadel, a national expert, author, and columnist on fraud prevention.

Keen will be speaking about spotting and recovering from scams and steps to follow while working with your insurance company. This information, which will accompany Garcia’s presentation, will provide consumers with tips and resources for scam and fraud avoidance, resources for recovery, and how to report.

“It is important for people to do their due diligence so that they do not become a victim of scams and fraud,” Keen said. “This is especially true when they are in a vulnerable position, including after a natural disaster. Unfortunately, not everyone who rushes in after a flood or fire is there to help.”

If you believe you may have been scammed related to an insurance or financial product or claim, DFR has resources to help you. Consumer advocates are available by calling 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or emailing .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov or .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. More information is also available at dfr.oregon.gov/help.

Registration Now Open for the Annual Oregon Spring Cleanup

– Registration is live for the annual Oregon Spring Cleanup presented by Portland General Electric! With over 100 events already posted on the SOLVE website, now is the time to get involved. Litter cleanups and habitat restoration projects span Portland and SW Washington, the entire Oregon Coast from Astoria to Brookings, the Willamette National Forest, Southern Oregon—including Medford—and all the way to Baker City in Eastern Oregon.

The Oregon Spring Cleanup, celebrating Earth Month, takes place from April 12 to 22, 2025, culminating on Saturday, April 19. Individuals, families, community and corporate groups are encouraged to participate in this collective effort to keep our region clean and beautiful. Volunteers can sign up for existing projects or host their own events with support from SOLVE.

Longtime community partner, Portland General Electric continues to champion environmental volunteerism through SOLVE. As part of PGE’s commitment to environmental stewardship, they partner with SOLVE to bring communities together to provide clean and healthy environments for all.

“Earth Month is great reminder to take action and continue to enhance our communities,” said PGE’s vice president of policy and resource planning, Kristen Sheeran. “This Earth Month, we’re ready to roll up our sleeves with SOLVE and all of the volunteer partners to make a lasting impact on Oregon’s natural spaces.”

How to Get Involved

• Sign up: Find a volunteer event near you and register yourself or a group at volunteer.solveoregon.org/
• Lead your own event: SOLVE provides all the necessary resources, including supplies and disposal funds, to make hosting a project easy for you.
• Join the challenge: Rally your school, company, or community group to take part in the Trash Bag Challenge. Participants challenge others to either join an existing SOLVE cleanup or lead their own, sparking friendly competition and community pride – solveoregon.org/challenge

Supply Hubs: Making Coastal Cleanups More Sustainable

At SOLVE, we make it easy to lead a cleanup event. This year, new coastal supply hubs provide an additional way to access event materials, making it even easier to host litter cleanups along the Oregon Coast.

Through a partnership with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and generous support from Knife River, SOLVE has established seven supply hubs along the Oregon Coast. These hubs—located at Cape Lookout, Fort Stevens, Port Orford Heads, South Beach, and Sunset Bay within OPRD parks, along with Heart of Cartm in Nehalem and Washed Ashore in Bandon—are stocked with supplies to support cleanups of up to 20 volunteers, reducing the shipment of single-use plastics to these areas.

Join the Trash Bag Challenge

New this year, SOLVE is also launching the Trash Bag Challenge, inviting schools, businesses, community groups, and organizations to challenge others to either join an existing cleanup or lead their own. This initiative is designed to spark friendly competition and community pride while making a tangible difference in local areas.

The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2025 is made possible by the generous support of Portland General Electric and other event sponsors, including AAA, CareOregon, Clean Water Services, Fred Meyer, Holman Enterprises, KOIN 6, The Oregonian, Lam Research Corporation, Metro, Lithia Driveway, Intel, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Swire Coca-Cola, The Standard, and PepsiCo.

For more information and to sign up, visit www.solveoregon.org/oregon-spring and be part of the collective effort to create a cleaner, greener Oregon.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state.

The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability.

In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs.

If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

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 6th 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.

Registration will close on April 15 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 1^st 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.

Indigenous Speakers Series Returns to the Museum in April with Three Inspiring Events

BEND, OR — This coming April, explore identity, cultures and how to live the good life when the High Desert Museum’s Indigenous Speaker Series returns. Promising a vibrant showcase of Indigenous voices, the series features an array of Indigenous artists, storytellers, scholars and more who share their unique perspectives with the community.

“We are honored to once again collaborate with Indigenous knowledge holders to bring vital conversations to our visitors,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “The April events are a continuation of an effort to elevate Indigenous voices to share the issues and cultures of the High Desert.”

The three April events explore topics such as identity, creativity, community and portraiture. Two of the events are connected to an exhibition open now at the Museum, Frank S. Matsura: Portraits from the Borderland. Featuring 20-plus enlarged portraits taken by Matsura of Native peoples in the early 1900s, the exhibition provides visitors a unique look at life in Okanogan County in Washington state during a time of transition. The exhibition originated at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture in Spokane, Wash.

On April 1, Michael Holloman (Colville Confederated Tribes), a Washington State University associate professor and a curator of the original exhibition, will lead a panel discussion that looks deeper into Matsura’s life. “Frank S. Matsura: His Life and Portraits” also includes film and media scholar Glen Mimura and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Beth Harrington. The event will consider Matsura’s experiences as a Japanese-born photographer and his nuanced imagery of Native communities. Tickets are $5, with a 20% discount for Museum members and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/matsura-portraits. 

Then, on April 25, the Museum will host LaRonn Katchia (Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs), the director of Pathfinders, for a discussion of the short film. Katchia, a Warm Springs/Wasco/Paiute filmmaker and storyteller, will be joined by Thyreicia Simtustus, Kahmussa Green and Kiahna Allen (Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs), who are featured in the film. Part of the Matsura exhibition at the Museum, the film explores how the three young leaders are finding their own paths in balancing Native and non-Native worlds. Tickets are $5, with Members receiving a 20% discount and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/pathfinders. 

In between those two events, on April 17, the Museum will host Chris La Tray, Métis storyteller and award-winning author of Becoming Little Shell. La Tray will discuss the Anishinaabe word Mino-bimaadiziwin, meaning “the good life.” The concept emphasizes the importance of community well-being and living in harmony with the world around us. At its simplest, it is living a life in balance, but how?

Montana’s Poet Laureate from 2023-2025, La Tray is a descendent of the Pembina Band of the mighty Red River of the North and a member of the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians. His first book, One-Sentence Journal: Short Poems and Essays from the World at Large, won the 2018 Montana Book Award and a 2019 High Plains Book Award. The event includes light refreshment and a no-host bar. Tickets are $12, with members receiving a 20% discount and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/the-good-life.

The Indigenous Speakers Series is made possible by The Roundhouse Foundation, with additional support from Author’s Unbound for the April 17 Chris La Tray event. For more information and to purchase tickets for Indigenous Speakers Series events, visit highdesertmuseum.org/indigenous-speakers-series.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

The long-delayed deadline for REAL ID is now less than 2 months away. There’s a chance that full enforcement may get gradually rolled out, but May 7, 2025, is the changeover deadline.

Starting then, state-level ID cards, such as driver’s licenses, won’t be accepted for federal purposes, namely getting through airport security, unless it’s REAL ID-compliant.

If you plan to catch a domestic flight on or after May 7, you will be required to use a REAL ID. A little gold or black star in the upper right-hand corner is one of the easiest ways to know you’re holding a REAL ID.

In Oregon, it’s a black star. A REAL ID is an identification card that serves all of the same purposes of a standard drivers’ license or state-issued identification card. A federally-mandated switch to REAL ID for federal purposes, such as flying domestically, was originally signed into law by Congress in 2005.

The purpose is to establish “minimum security standards for license issuance and production,” according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website. The law, established four years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, came in response to federal calls for higher security standards in the U.S. Originally, the law mandated the switch to REAL ID by 2008, but it has been pushed back for various reasons due to logistical hurdles and later the COVID-19 pandemic.

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