Three Rivers Foundation
The Three Rivers Foundation, the charitable arm of Three Rivers Casino Resort, has awarded $720,000 in grants to 60 nonprofits across Oregon in 2025. The Foundation—established by the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians—supports vital community programs with revenue generated from casino operations. Among this year’s recipients is Siuslaw Outreach Services, which received $76,000 to help establish the Siuslaw Area Resource Center. Executive Director Bob Teter said the funding brings their five-year vision of a multi-agency hub closer to reality, supporting financial literacy, safety planning, tenant education, and cultural programming that honors the Siuslaw Tribe. Other Florence-area grantees include the Florence Police Department, awarded $33,250 for Flock security cameras, and Florence Food Share, receiving $10,000 to fight hunger. Additional local recipients were Mapleton School District – $15,500, Mapleton Food Share – $10,000, Safe Shelter for Siuslaw Students – $15,000, Western Lane Ambulance for a child safety seat program – $5,000, and the Florence United Methodist Free Lunch Program – $6,500. The grants were presented at a June 3 luncheon at the casino in Florence.
BLM Sale
The Bureau of Land Management is preparing to sell up to 17 million board feet of timber from 662 acres of public land near Holley in Linn County. The Farm Team and Brushback timber sales will involve thinning and variable retention harvests, each expected to produce about 8.5 million board feet. Timber from these public lands supports Oregon’s construction industry and helps sustain local economies. BLM Northwest Oregon District Manager Dennis Teitzel said the agency is focused on sustainable timber production that supports jobs and strengthens communities. Bobby King of R&R King Logging in West Lane County says that while his company isn’t involved in this specific sale, it benefits the mills they work with. He noted the importance of harvesting in overgrown forests to reduce fire risk and prevent bug infestations. According to King, 17 million board feet may sound like a lot, but for his five crews, it represents just about three months of work. BLM timber sales in Oregon support around 2,000 jobs and generate more than $1 billion annually for local communities.
DMV Scam
Oregon DMV is warning the public about scam texts and emails demanding payment for fake traffic violations. The messages reference bogus legal codes and threaten license suspension or damage to your credit if you don’t pay immediately. “,” spokesperson Chris Crabb says These are not from the DMV. And they never request payment or personal info through unsolicited texts or emails. If you receive one, don’t click any links—delete and block the message. Legitimate DMV transactions are only handled at dmv2u.oregon.gov or in person at a DMV office.