04-22-2026 Commissioners Issue Proclamation For National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day (Photo) - 04/22/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 22, 2026

Commissioners Issue Proclamation for National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Board of Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman were pleased to issue a proclamation in honor of National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day during their weekly business meeting on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.  The proclamation recognized that observing this day offers an important opportunity to express gratitude to childcare educators, teachers, centers, and home-based caregivers in Douglas County, across the United States, and around the world. These professionals are dedicated to creating safe, nurturing, and enriching environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive.  It also highlighted the vital role childcare professionals play in fostering children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development, helping prepare them for success in school and in life. Additionally, they are an essential part of Douglas County’s workforce, economy, and community infrastructure, supporting economic stability by enabling businesses to retain employees and contributing to a productive, resilient local workforce. A copy of the live video from the presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

Established by the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) in 1995, National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day is observed annually on the Friday before Mother’s Day to recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of childcare providers, teachers, and early childhood educators.  In 2026, National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day will be celebrated on Friday, May 8.

Commissioner Kress opened the proclamation presentation by thanking the full room of attendees for their dedication to supporting children, families, and businesses throughout Douglas County and stated, “On behalf of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, it is our pleasure to welcome you to this special gathering in recognition of National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day.  Today, we are here to say thank you, not just in words, but in recognition of the lasting impact you have on our community. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and your contributions truly make Douglas County a stronger, more vibrant place to live and work.  We are honored to celebrate you. Today is about more than recognition—it is about connection. It is about taking a moment, in the midst of busy schedules and long days, to pause and acknowledge the people who make it possible for our families, businesses, and communities to function and thrive. Childcare providers are often the quiet backbone of our local economy—showing up early, staying late, and giving their full attention, care, and heart to the children entrusted to them.”

Commissioner Chris Boice read the official proclamation, followed by Commissioner Freeman recognizing the attending guests with National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day proclamation certificates, honoring their unwavering dedication to the children and families of Douglas County.  Attending the proclamation presentation today was Julie Hurley, Douglas ESD; Heather Freilinger, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral/Care Connection; Nicole Martin, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral; Harrison Bent, Douglas ESD; Danielle McKiddy, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral; Cherry Camonayan, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral; Robin VanWinkle, Douglas ESD Early Learning/Biz4Kids/Douglas County Childcare Coalition; Sarah Wheelock, Douglas ESD Early Learning/Biz4Kids/Douglas County Childcare Coalition; Michelle Bassett, Douglas ESD/Care Connections & Education; Barbara Lynch, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral/ Care Connections & Education; Sarah Pytalski, The Ford Family Foundation; Michelle Martin, The Ford Family Foundation; Kelly Warner, The Ford Family Foundation; Brian Warner, The Ford Family Foundation; Natasha Atchison, Umpqua Homes Inc; Sheila Ullom, CCPT/CPCC/Lily’s Pad Childcare; Rochelle Van Slyke, YMCA of Douglas County; Aimee Tenbrook, UCAN Head Start; Carissa Bent, COBB Children’s Learning Center; Scott Swanson, COBB Children’s Learning Center; Anne-Marie Halloway, Miss Ann’s Kiddie Corner; Dana Garza, Country Kids Christian Learning Academy; Debi Hollander, Umpqua Health Alliance; Joy Whitcomb, Phoenix Early Learning Center; Jennifer Taylor, Phoenix Early Learning Center; Sidnee Hedrick, Adapt Integrated Health Care; Theresa Tucky, Child Care Resource & Referral and Troy Johns, Boys & Girls Club of Umpqua Valley. 

Commissioner Kress then invited guests up to the podium and talk about the work they do in our community.  “I have worked in early learning for over 30 years, and I can say with certainty that childcare and early learning are not peripheral to a community, they are foundational.  I am honored to represent the Child Care Resource & Referral Center here in Douglas County and work alongside Robin VanWinkle whose leadership and collaboration continue to strengthen childcare advocacy in our community.  Across all childcare program types, providers nurture children’s growth, ensure their safety, partner with families, meet licensing and training requirements and manage complex operations – often while navigation staffing challenges and limited resources.  Across all settings, early learning does not just happen, it’s intentionally designed, carefully supported and made possible through ongoing training relationships and experience.  We see how essential it is to invest in this workforce, not only through funding but through respect, visibility and partnership.  Children benefit when providers are supported.  Families benefit when childcare is stable and accessible.  And communities benefit when the early learning system is strong.  Today’s proclamation sends an important message, that childcare and early learning matter in Douglas County.  Commissioners, we are grateful for this proclamation and even more grateful for the people it honors.” - Heather Freilinger, Douglas ESD, Child Care Resource & Referral, and Douglas County Child Care Coalition.

“Today’s proclamation is a powerful reminder that our community sees the value of early childhood education and the people that make it possible.  When we support childcare providers, we are supporting families, strengthening our workforce, and investing in the future of our community.  To our Commissioners, community leaders and partners, thank you for taking the time to recognize this work and for standing with us.  It is truly an honor to be part of this field and this community.” - Aimee Tenbrook, UCAN Head Start Program.

“As a working parent here in Douglas County, childcare isn’t just a convenience for my family, it is essential.  Beyond that, what matters the most to me is not just that care exists, it is the quality of that care.  Every day we bring our son to people that don’t just watch him, they teach him, comfort him, play with him and help him grow.  They are part of his development, his sense of safety, and his early understanding of the world,” – Sidnee Hedrick, ADAPT Integrated Healthcare and the Douglas County Child Care Coalition. 

“When I became HR Director, I wanted to do something for our employees regarding childcare.  We have about 500 employees, and I have always had the idea of opening an on campus childcare facility.  I never got any traction with that idea until this present Board of Commissioners.  This is beyond just a proclamation today, beyond just words this is actually an action they put in place.  Not only did they say this was a good idea, but they also said, ”How can we help and how can we make this happen?”  So, we now have an on-campus Child Care Provider that provides great quality childcare that is affordable, accessible and a great advantage to our employees.” - Michael Kurtz, Douglas County Human Resources Director.

“Thank you Commissioners.  It is with a lot of gratitude that we get to come here today.  The word unbelievable comes up a lot.  But I think when you meet the people who are involved in providing and supporting childcare in this community the word changes to believable.  The passion and the care that the professionals in this room provide through the Douglas County Child Care Coalition is just really incredible and off the charts.  You recognizing this group and bringing attention to this effort is so important.  It is often the first question that people who want to move to our community ask.” – Troy Johns, Boys & Girls Club of Umpqua Valley. 

“When I was leaving the legislature and getting ready to start as a County Commissioner, I had an opportunity to request a State Commission appointment and I requested to be on the State’s Early Learning Council.  I selected that council because I knew that no matter what the importance of the justice system and everything else in our community, if we could not find solutions for families with young children, the rest did not matter.  I was privileged to serve on the Early Learning Council for a while and in that time, I learned a lot, especially the importance of the work you all do every day.  So, I sincerely thank you for doing that work.” – Commissioner Tim Freeman.   

The Commissioners proclaimed Friday, May 8, 2026, as National Child Care Providers Day in Douglas County and encourage all residents to recognize and thank childcare providers for their dedication, professionalism, and the vital role they play in supporting children, strengthening families, and building a brighter future for our community.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Chief Public Affairs Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 |

Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Proclamation and Photo Collage Attached.  Individual photos are available upon request. Photo © K.Rodriguez/Douglas County

04-21-26 Douglas County Commissioners Celebrate National Volunteer Week (Photo) - 04/21/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 21, 2026

Douglas County Commissioners Celebrate National Volunteer Week

(Douglas County, Ore.) — In honor of National Volunteer Week (April 19-26), the Douglas County Board of Commissioners proudly recognize and thank the many volunteers who dedicate their time, talent, and compassion to serving Douglas County government and the broader community. 

Thank you to the more than 100 community volunteers who serve on County advisory boards, committees, and councils—including the Planning Advisory Committees, Fair Board, Budget Committee, Seniors Advisory Council, Parks Advisory Board, Veterans Advisory Council, Dog Control Board, Noxious Weed Advisory Board, Local Public Safety Coordinating Council, Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Committee, Property Values Appeals Board, Committee for Citizen Involvement, and Traffic Safety Commission.  These individuals play a vital role in shaping programs, policies, and services that benefit all Douglas County residents.  The Commissioners also extend appreciation to the many hands-on volunteers who provide direct support for county services across Douglas County, including:

• Douglas County Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining Site volunteers, who prepare and deliver over 80,000 meals annually to seniors in need, helping ensure nutrition and connection for some of our most vulnerable residents.
• Douglas County Search & Rescue volunteers, who work with local law enforcement, train extensively, and respond when residents need help the most.
• Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, the highly trained volunteer honor guard provides dignified recognition and respect for service, sacrifice, and community milestones, especially honoring law enforcement personnel and public service traditions.
• Douglas County Parks Camp Hosts and Adopt-a-Park volunteers, who help maintain and enhance the beauty, safety, and accessibility of our county parks.
• Salmon Harbor - Winchester Bay RV Resort Park Hosts, who help maintain and enhance the beauty, safety, and accessibility of our county assets in Winchester Bay.
• Douglas County Fairgrounds volunteers, who assist with events, judge competitions, and support operations that bring the community together year-round.
• Douglas County Work Crew volunteers help provide structured opportunities for individuals to fulfill their mandated service hours in a meaningful, supervised, and socially beneficial way.
• Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History and Umpqua Lighthouse Museum volunteers, who help preserve, share, and provide tours of the diverse and rich history of our region.
• Douglas County Emergency Management and Disaster Response volunteers, including those serving through CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service), 211, American Red Cross, United Way, Salvation Army, 988, and many others who step up in times of crisis to support our community.

The Commissioners similarly offer special recognition to Courthouse Greeter Bill Crenshaw, whose welcoming presence and helpful smile make a lasting impression on everyone who visits the Douglas County Courthouse. In addition to those serving in official County roles, the Commissioners also extend their sincere appreciation to the countless community volunteers who support local nonprofits, service organizations, fire departments, youth sports programs, schools, councils, faith-based groups, veterans, and neighborhood initiatives. These individuals quietly strengthen the fabric of Douglas County every day lending a helping hand, uplifting those in need, and making our communities more connected, resilient, and compassionate.

Established in 1974 and observed as part of Global Volunteer Month, National Volunteer Week recognizes the significant contributions of volunteers and the essential role they play in meeting community needs through service, personal responsibility, and local action. Volunteers embody the spirit of self-reliance and neighbor helping neighbor ideologies that strengthen communities and support local solutions.  Their stories serve to inspire others to act, to realize their power to make a difference, and be a force that transforms the world.

The Value of Volunteers:  The impact of volunteerism extends far beyond service—it represents a significant economic contribution. According to Independent Sector, as of April 2025, the estimated value of volunteer time in Oregon is $36.44 per hour, surpassing the 2025 national average of $34.79.  This figure reflects the measurable economic impact of volunteer efforts and is an important tool for nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations when evaluating programs and pursuing grant funding. Notably, the value of volunteer time in Oregon has steadily increased from $29.75 in 2020 to $36.44 in 2025.

A Community Effort: “Volunteers are truly the heart of Douglas County,” stated Commissioner Tim Freeman. “Whether they are serving on advisory boards, delivering meals, responding in emergencies, or supporting community events, their dedication makes a real and lasting difference. We are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and compassion they give to help keep our communities strong.”

During National Volunteer Week and throughout the year, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners encourages residents to take time to recognize and support local volunteers, and to consider getting involved in the many service opportunities that strengthen our community.  Visit the Douglas County website at douglascountyor.gov or justserve.org for volunteer opportunities in Douglas County.  These efforts help preserve and enhance Douglas County as a great place to live, work, and enjoy life.

"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart." — Elizabeth Andrew, Author.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Chief Public Affairs Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 |

Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

04-20-26 Party Affiliation & Voter Registration Deadline For The 2026 Primary Election (Photo) - 04/20/26

Office of the Douglas County Clerk - Daniel J. Loomis

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 20, 2026

Party Affiliation & Voter Registration deadline for the 2026 Primary Election

(Douglas County, Ore.) Tuesday, April 28, 2026, is the last day for anyone who wishes to participate in the 2026 Primary Election to register to vote.  Douglas County residents may securely check their party affiliation, voter registration, and/or register to vote by visiting https://sos.oregon.gov/voting-elections/. Voters may also print the downloadable pdf found at https://sos.oregon.gov/elections/Documents/SEL500.pdf, and return their completed forms to the Douglas County Clerk’s Office by utilizing one of the methods listed below:

1. Email – Voters may email their completed voter registration forms to our office at

elections@douglascountyor.gov.

1. Fax – Voters may fax completed voter registration forms to our office at (541) 440-4408.
2. Mail – Voters may also mail completed voter registration forms to our office.

Additionally, voters can also register in-person at the Douglas County Clerk’s Office located at:

Douglas County Courthouse

1036 SE Douglas Ave, Room CH 124

Roseburg, OR 97470

Douglas County Clerk Dan Loomis offered, “I recommend checking and updating your party affiliation and voter registration early to avoid delays.”

Both major political parties have chosen to hold closed primaries, in May. This means that partisan candidates for the two major parties (generally for state offices or higher) are only seen on a voter’s ballot if you are affiliated with one of the two major political parties.  All registered voters who are registered by the deadline, will receive a ballot for the 2026 Primary Election based on their residence address and political party affiliation. You must be a registered Oregon voter and registered with a major political party to be eligible to vote for that party’s nominees for partisan offices that will later be decided during the November General Election. If you are registered with a minor party or not affiliated with any political party, you will only be eligible to vote on nonpartisan offices and measures.

For more information, please visit the Douglas County Clerk’s Office, in Room CH 124 of the Douglas County Courthouse, 1036 SE Douglas Avenue, Roseburg, Oregon, or call (541) 440-4252, or visit our website at https://douglascountyor.gov/elections.

Please note: State Voters’ Pamphlets are compiled and distributed by the Oregon Secretary of State’s office. Once available, an electronic and audio version can be found on the State’s website at: http://sos.oregon.gov/voting/Pages/current-election.aspx.  The Douglas County Clerk’s is a division of Douglas County Government. 

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Contact: Dan Loomis, County Clerk, Douglas County Clerk’s Office - (541) 440-4325 - dan.loomis@douglascountyor.gov

04-10-26 Meeting Notice - Douglas County Veterans Advisory Committee (Photo) - 04/10/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 10, 2026

***MEETING NOTICE***

DOUGLAS COUNTY VETERANS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

(Douglas County, OR) The next meeting of the Douglas County Veterans Advisory Committee will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 3:00 pm in Room 216 of the Douglas County Courthouse located at 1036 SE Douglas Avenue in Roseburg, Oregon.  

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch the meeting. To view the live stream or post meeting recording, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@douglascountyoregongov.

For additional information about this meeting, please contact the Douglas County Veteran Service Office by calling (541) 440-4219 or by email at veterans@douglascountyor.gov. The meeting agenda can be found at https://douglascountyor.gov/.  The Douglas County Veteran Service Office is a division of Douglas County government. 

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Chief Public Affairs Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office |

(541) 670-2804 cell | (541) 957-4896 office  tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

04-08-26 Commissioners Issue Proclamation For Child Abuse Prevention Month (Photo) - 04/08/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 8, 2026

Commissioners Issue Proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Board of Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman were honored to issue a proclamation in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month during their weekly business meeting on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.  The proclamation acknowledges that child abuse and neglect are serious issues impacting every part of our community. It highlights that effective prevention efforts are only possible through strong partnerships and collaboration among local health and social service agencies, law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, public and private schools, the medical community, civic and faith-based organizations, the business sector, volunteer groups, and local families.   A copy of the live video from the presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

Prior to the meeting, attendees gathered with the Douglas County Commissioners on the front lawn of the Douglas County Courthouse to line the walkways with pinwheels, part of a nationwide tradition during Child Abuse Prevention Month. The annual “planting” of pinwheels raises awareness for children who endure abuse and neglect, while honoring the dedicated professionals and community members who work tirelessly to protect them. Introduced in 2008 by Prevent Child Abuse America through their Pinwheels for Prevention® campaign, the pinwheel has become a national symbol of child abuse prevention, representing the joy, playfulness, and spirit of childhood and reminding us that every child deserves a safe and happy upbringing.  Commissioners encourage community members and local businesses to place pinwheels for prevention in their front yards and storefronts as a visible symbol of hope, awareness, and our shared commitment to protecting children. 

Commissioner Kress opened the proclamation presentation thanking the attendees for their commitment to this critical cause and stated, “It is my honor to welcome you today as we recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month here in Douglas County.  Our children are our most valuable resource, and their safety, stability, and well-being must always be a top priority. Today’s proclamation is more than words; it is a call to action. It reminds us that preventing child abuse is not the responsibility of one agency or one individual, but of an entire community working together.  When families are supported, when neighbors look out for one another, and when we invest in services that strengthen and protect children, we build a stronger, healthier future for everyone.”

Commissioner Chris Boice read the official proclamation, followed by Commissioner Kress recognizing the attending local agencies with “National Child Abuse Prevention Month” proclamation certificates, honoring their unwavering dedication to the children and families of Douglas County.  Representatives from the following agencies attended the Proclamation Presentation today: Marion Pearson, Mercy Foundation - Up2UsNow Coalition; Lisa Platt, Mercy Foundation; Russ Wooley, CHI Mercy Health; Bryanna Paradice, UCAN Healthy Families; Hayley Rush, UCAN Healthy Families; Corene Adair, UCAN Healthy Families; Dalita Lara, UCAN Healthy Families; Brennan Cappa, UCAN Healthy Families; Kat Cooper, Umpqua Health Alliance and Family Development Center; Wendy Lang, Douglas County Juvenile Department; Holly O’Dell, Douglas County Juvenile Department; Lindsey Stanton, ODHA Child Welfare; Jessica Hunter, ODHA Child Welfare; Marlena Potter, Cow Creek Tribal Child Welfare; Skylar Moreland, Cow Creek Child Welfare; Shawn, Hopfer, Aviva Health – Child Advocacy Services; Lauren Haddock, Aviva Health – Child Advocacy Services; Sheriff John Hanlin, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office; Chief Gary Klopfenstein, Roseburg Police Department; AC Clough III, Glide Rural Fire Department; Chief Rob Bullock, Central Douglas Fire & Rescue. 

Commissioner Kress invited agency representatives to speak about the work their agency does for this monumental effort to help and protect children. The agencies emphasized the far-reaching impact of child abuse in Douglas County and the importance of a strong, multi-disciplinary agency response. Marion Pearson, Violence Prevention Program Manager at Mercy Foundation in partnership with CHI Mercy Health and Up2US Now Coalition, emphasized the power of community partnerships in addressing abuse and exploitation. “Thank you Commissioners for the proclamation today and for recognizing the valuable work being done in our community to prevent child abuse. Mercy and Mercy Foundation for decades has been dedicated to the health and welfare of Douglas County residents.  It is through that work that our dedication to lift-up and support our community members to address these social determinates of health with value-based care and seeing everyone in our community as a whole person – rather than just as a patient or just a victim or a survivor.  I wanted to recognize that we could not do any of this work without you here supporting us and without the people that are in this room today and those who were unable to attend today.”

Next, Bryanna Paradice, Program Manager for UCAN’s Healthy Families – Home Visiting Program, addressed those gathered in the gallery. “First, I wanted to thank the Commissioners for holding this proclamation meeting today and bringing us all together to talk about child abuse, neglect and abuse prevention.  It shows a strong commitment to kids and families throughout our county.  For me I like promoting child abuse and neglect prevention month not to spook or scare or shame anyone but rather bring attention to all the wonderful support agencies and services we have available to the folks in our county.  When we can connect parents to concrete resources – making sure their basic needs are met – and that they have access to healthcare and behavioral health care – we see stronger outcomes with those families.”

Lindsey Stanton, Program Manager for Oregon Department of Health and Human Services spoke next and stated, “This month reminds us that protecting children is a shared responsibility.  Child welfare goes beyond the work of extending to harm.  We partner with families and support parents in crisis and collaborate with school, law enforcement, and community organizations who are in this room today.  I also want to recognize something critically important.  When Douglas CARES unexpectedly closed their doors, our community faced a potential crisis.  Child advocacy centers are essential for child safety, trauma-informed medical exams and coordinated investigations.  Without this program the impact to our community was immediate and severe.  However, Aviva Health (thank you) stepped in without hesitation.  They mobilized quickly, kept services accessible, and ensured children did not lose that vital support.  We are incredibly fortunate to have Aviva in our community.  Every child we meet we work towards, not just safety, but stability, healing and hope.  We are grateful for continued partnerships and for this support for our communities.”

Concluding the discussion, Sheriff John Hanlin with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office spoke about how thankful he is for the cooperative community collaborations we have here in Douglas County, “I want to let everyone know that thanks to the support from the County Commissioners and local City Governments, we have very active Detectives Divisions and when abuse cases come before us each agency handles those cases as a priority, but when you have major cases we have the ability of pooling our resources together and we do that frequently.  The cooperation and collaboration we share with the other law enforcement agencies in Douglas County is unique and we are very fortunate to have that.  I want to sincerely say thank you to all the agencies that help us raise awareness about child abuse and prevention.”  

The Commissioners proclaimed April 2026 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month in Douglas County and urge all citizens to join in the important work of preventing child abuse and neglect. By raising awareness and standing together to protect children, we can help ensure brighter, safer futures for all.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Chief Public Affairs Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 |

Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Proclamation and Photo Collage Attached.  Individual photos are available upon request. Photo © K.Rodriguez/Douglas County

03-25-26 Commissioners Issue Proclamation For Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day (Photo) - 03/25/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 25, 2026

Commissioners Issue Proclamation for Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman were honored to be asked to be a part of the Roseburg VA Health Care System’s Third Annual Vietnam Veterans of America Welcome Home Event held today, Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the Douglas County Fairgrounds.  A copy of the complete video presentation of the ceremony can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

The Third Annual Roseburg VA Vietnam Veterans of America Welcome Home Event included:

• A reception and luncheon for Vietnam Veterans and their families
• Memorial Veterans Wall, flag, and boot displays
• Welcome by Roseburg VA Health Care System (RVAHCS) Chief CDCE and Master of Ceremonies Traci Palmer
• Opening prayer by Acing Chief RVAHCS Chaplain Patrice Borne
• Presentation of the colors by the Umpqua Valley Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Chapter #805 Honor Guard.
• Opening remarks by RVAHCS Interim Director, Dr. Christina Hansel Cellura.
• Special Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans proclamation presentation by Douglas County Commissioner and Veteran Services Liaison Tim Freeman
• Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA) presentation was presented by ODVA Appeals & Special Advocacy Director, Joe Glover
• Palmer invited VVA Chapter 805 President Bill Duncan to the podium to talk about the veteran Honor Flight program.  Southern Oregon Chapter Director for Honor Flights of Oregon, Ken Wilson was in attendance to talk about the program with veterans. 
• A beautiful patriotic musical medley including God Bless America, The Liberty Bell, Shenandoah, an Armed Forces Hymn Medley, Americana Medley and the Navy Hymn was performed by the Navy Band Northwest (NBN).  NBN also proudly played anthems for each of the United States Military branches while Vietnam Veterans were asked to stand during their respective branch anthem - Army: "The Caisson Song" (also known as "The Army Goes Rolling Along"), Marine Corps: "The Marines' Hymn", Navy: "Anchors Aweigh", Air Force: "The U.S. Air Force", Space Force: "Semper Supra", and Coast Guard: "Semper Paratus"  
• The story behind the significance of the challenge coin was shared by retired United States Marine Corps Major, Dr. Shawn Tyson.
• A special coining ceremony was held, during which each attending Vietnam Veteran received a specially designed commemorative coin in honor of their service. Coin presenters included ODVA Joe Glover, RVAHCS Interim Director Christina Hansel Cellura, Douglas County Commissioner Tom Kress, Douglas County Commissioner Chris Boice, Douglas County Commissioner Tim Freeman, Douglas County Sheriff John Hanlin, Douglas County Undersheriff Brad O’Dell, Douglas County Clerk Dan Loomis, and Dr. Shawn Tyson.
• A ceremonial 21-gun salute was presented by the Umpqua Valley Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Chapter #805 Honor Guard was followed by the playing of taps on the cornet performed by the Navy Band Northwest. 
• Palmer then invited Dennis “Ande” Anderson to the podium.  Ande, a Vietnam Veteran volunteered to provide a statement of response about the Welcome Home event from the Vietnam Veteran Community.  

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners proclamation was presented by Board Chair Commissioner Tim Freeman, on behalf of all three commissioners and proclaimed Sunday, March 29, 2026, as Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day in Douglas County. They continue to honor with somber reflection the United States of America’s 13-year Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War which concluded in 2025.  The proclamation encouraged all citizens to rightfully honor and thank our Vietnam Veterans and their families for their bravery, courageous military service, and sacrifice.  During the reading copies of the proclamation certificates were presented to Vietnam Veterans in attendance.    

"The Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day commemoration is a vow that we as a nation will never again confuse personal disapproval of war with prejudice against those who honorably wear the uniform of our U.S. Armed Forces. With conviction, we pledge our enduring respect, our continuing care, and our everlasting commitment to all Vietnam veterans who were denied a proper welcome home upon returning to U.S. soil more than 50 years ago," stated Commissioner Freeman.

The Vietnam Veterans of America Welcome Home Event concluded with a door prize drawing and a sincere message from Palmer.  The Commissioners truly and sincerely Thank and Welcome Home our Vietnam Veterans.  The Douglas County Commissioners would like to thank the Roseburg VA for inviting them to be part of this amazing ceremony honoring our Vietnam Veterans. 

To learn more about the United States of America’s 13-year Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War visit https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Public Information Officer | Phone: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Proclamation and Photo Collage Attached. Photos © K.Rodriguez/Douglas County.