Benton County To Mark National Crime Victims’ Rights Week With Community Event (Photo) - 04/15/26

The Benton County District Attorney’s Office invites community members and media to attend a public event recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and reaffirming a shared commitment to justice, dignity and healing for all survivors.

The event will take place Monday, April 20, at 2 p.m. at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library.

Observed nationwide, Crime Victims’ Rights Week highlights the importance of supporting victims, raising awareness of available services and strengthening partnerships between communities and those who serve them. The 2026 theme, “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities,” encourages individuals and organizations to take meaningful action in support of survivors.

The Benton County event will include:

• Remarks from community leaders
• A resource fair featuring local service providers
• Recognition of survivors and their resilience
• A proclamation read by Benton County Board Chair Pat Malone

“Benton County is committed to ensuring that survivors are heard, supported and treated with dignity,” said Benton County District Attorney Ryan Joslin. “This event brings our community together to recognize the strength of survivors and the importance of access to services that promote healing and justice.”

Community members, service providers and local partners are encouraged to attend.

Each April, the Benton County District Attorney’s Office places colored flags on the Historic Benton County Courthouse lawn to recongnize local crime victims. Each flag represents a reported victimization in Benton County for the previous year. 

For more information about victim services and National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, residents can contact the Benton County Victim Assistance Program or visit the federal Office for Victims of Crime.

Benton County Invites Community To Vote On Final Fair & Rodeo Logo Designs (Photo) - 04/06/26

Benton County is inviting the public to help select the official logo for the 2026 Benton County Fair & Rodeo by voting on four finalist designs.

The “Design Rodeo” contest, which ran from November through February, called on artists of all ages to submit original designs inspired by the theme “Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights.” After reviewing submissions, the Benton County Fair Board and fair organizers selected four finalists that reflect the creativity and community spirit behind the annual event.

Now, community members are encouraged to weigh in.

Votes are being collected both online and through community outreach, with results combined to determine the winning design.

The winning design will become the official logo for the 2026 Benton County Fair & Rodeo and will be featured on posters, social media, merchandise and other promotional materials.

The selected artist will receive a share of proceeds from commemorative items, along with an “Ultimate Fair Experience” package. Find out more about the contest and winners' prizes at nape.bentoncountyor.gov/design-rodeo. 

Organizers say opening both the design process and final selection to the community reflects the collaborative spirit of the fair.

Community members can view the finalist designs and cast their vote at benton360.my.canva.site/design-rodeo-2026.

The Benton County Fair & Rodeo is held annually in Corvallis and draws thousands of visitors each summer for a mix of agricultural exhibits, entertainment and rodeo events. Fair ticket sales will open May 15 this year.