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Incredible Sunset Last Night 

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Ryan Finlay

Southern Oregon was treated to a spectacular sunset Tuesday evening. 

Josh Gaunt

Moses Finlay

DFPA & Glendale Fire are actively engaged in an aggressive initial attack on an estimated 7–8 acre slash and timber fire near McCollough Creek Rd, northwest of Glendale.

Current DFPA Resources on scene include:

 • 5 engines

• 2 dozers

• 1 water tender

• Overhead command

• Glendale Fire assisting with additional personnel & equipment

At this time, there is no threat to homes or structures.

The cause is under active investigation.

 Please be mindful of increased firefighter traffic in the area.

An official press release will be issued Monday.

via DFPA

DFPA &amp; Glendale Fire are actively engaged in an aggressive initial attack on an estimated 7–8 acre slash and timber fire near McCollough Creek Rd, northwest of Glendale.Current DFPA Resources on scene include: • 5 engines• 2 dozers• 1 water tender• Overhead command• Glendale Fire assisting with additional personnel &amp; equipmentAt this time, there is no threat to homes or structures.The cause is under active investigation. Please be mindful of increased firefighter traffic in the area.An official press release will be issued Monday.via DFPA

Elijah Finlay

Kathy Guentner

DFPA & Glendale Fire are actively engaged in an aggressive initial attack on an estimated 7–8 acre slash and timber fire near McCollough Creek Rd, northwest of Glendale.

• Glendale Fire assisting with additional personnel & equipment

At this time, there is no threat to homes or structures.

 Please be mindful of increased firefighter traffic in the area.

An official press release will be issued Monday.

No Structures Threatened as Crews Fight Lunsbury Fire Near Glendale

The City of Roseburg will host four free outdoor movie nights at Stewart Park's Half Shell on consecutive Friday evenings in June, according to a city announcement released Wednesday.

The series kicks off June 5 with Zootopia 2. Pre-movie entertainment begins at 8 p.m. each Friday, with the featured PG-rated film starting at dusk. All four screenings are free and open to the public.

The full schedule:





June 5: Zootopia 2



June 12: GOAT



June 19: Hoppers



June 26: Frozen Sing-Along

Concessions will be available for purchase, and attendees may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol, tobacco, and pets are not allowed. Children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

The city noted that all movies and entertainment are subject to change and weather dependent.

For more information, visit www.roseburgor.gov.

The City of Roseburg will host four free outdoor movie nights at Stewart Park's Half Shell on consecutive Friday evenings in June, according to a city announcement released Wednesday.The series kicks off June 5 with Zootopia 2. Pre-movie entertainment begins at 8 p.m. each Friday, with the featured PG-rated film starting at dusk. All four screenings are free and open to the public.The full schedule:<ul class="!mt-4 !mb-6"><li class="!-my-2">June 5: Zootopia 2</li><li class="!-my-2">June 12: GOAT</li><li class="!-my-2">June 19: Hoppers</li><li class="!-my-2">June 26: Frozen Sing-Along</li></ul>Concessions will be available for purchase, and attendees may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol, tobacco, and pets are not allowed. Children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.The city noted that all movies and entertainment are subject to change and weather dependent.For more information, visit <a rel="noopener noreferrer" class="!text-blue-600 !cursor-pointer hover:!underline" href="https://www.roseburgor.gov">www.roseburgor.gov</a>.

lisa hunter

The City of Roseburg will host four free outdoor movie nights at Stewart Park's Half Shell on consecutive Friday evenings in June, according to a city announcement released Wednesday.

The series kicks off June 5 with Zootopia 2. Pre-movie entertainment begins at 8 p.m. each Friday, with the featured PG-rated film starting at dusk. All four screenings are free and open to the public.

Concessions will be available for purchase, and attendees may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol, tobacco, and pets are not allowed. Children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

The city noted that all movies and entertainment are subject to change and weather dependent.

Movies in the Park Returns to Stewart Park Halfshell for Summer 2026

The snow up at Crater Lake National Park is almost completely gone. The average snowpack for this point in the season is around seven feet. For perspective, at the beginning of April last year Crater Lake had almost 13 feet of snow, which is 150% of the median. The state officially free from drought for the first time since 2017.

 Currently, Douglas County is in severe drought territory with no rain in sight and temperatures for the next 10 days looking to be in the mid to upper 70s every day.  This is setting up for very concerning fire conditions heading into summer.

The snow up at Crater Lake National Park is almost completely gone. The average snowpack for this point in the season is around seven feet. For perspective, at the beginning of April last year Crater Lake had almost 13 feet of snow, which is 150% of the median. The state officially free from drought for the first time since 2017. Currently, Douglas County is in severe drought territory with no rain in sight and temperatures for the next 10 days looking to be in the mid to upper 70s every day. This is setting up for very concerning fire conditions heading into summer.

The snow up at Crater Lake National Park is almost completely gone. The average snowpack for this point in the season is around seven feet. For perspective, at the beginning of April last year Crater Lake had almost 13 feet of snow, which is 150% of the median. The state officially free from drought for the first time since 2017.

 Currently, Douglas County is in severe drought territory with no rain in sight and temperatures for the next 10 days looking to be in the mid to upper 70s every day.  This is setting up for very concerning fire conditions heading into summer.

Crater Lake Snowpack Almost Gone, 7 Feet Below Average

On April 19, 2026, Sergeant Dingman submitted the following Letter of Commendation recognizing Officers Vanderzanden and Rose for their exceptional courage, initiative, and professionalism during a life-saving vehicle accident and river rescue that occurred on April 18, 2026. Their decisive actions and commitment to protecting others directly contributed to the safe rescue of all occupants involved in the incident.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Officers Vanderzanden and Rose, 

This letter of commendation is in recognition of your actions on April 18, 2026, during a critical incident involving a vehicle that had left the roadway and overturned into a river, with children reported to be screaming from inside the vehicle. 

Although the incident occurred outside of city limits, both of you independently requested to respond due to the urgency of the call. You arrived prior to my arrival and, despite initial confusion regarding the exact location, quickly located the vehicle. Without hesitation, you made your way down a steep embankment and through dense brush to reach a vehicle that was upside down and partially submerged in the water. 

Officer Vanderzanden removed his external vest and duty belt and entered the water to assist. He removed a one-year-old child from the mother's arms, who was clinging to the vehicle, and handed the child to Officer Rose, who coordinated with responding personnel to move the child up the embankment to an awaiting ambulance. This process was repeated with a second child, who was also safely removed. 

You then worked together to provide a life jacket to the driver. As she attempted to climb out using a rope, she was unable to fully make it up the embankment, at which time Officer Rose assisted in pulling her to safety. 

As a direct result of your actions, all occupants were safely rescued and did not sustain any major injuries. 

Throughout the incident, you maintained a calm and controlled demeanor while managing a highly dynamic and emotionally charged situation. Your ability to communicate effectively with the victims and other first responders helped bring order to a chaotic scene and contributed to a successful rescue. 

Following the incident, I received praise from a Douglas County Sheriff's Office supervisor and fire personnel, all of whom recognized your efforts and professionalism. 

Your initiative, teamwork, and willingness to place yourselves in a hazardous environment to protect others reflect greatly upon yourselves and the Roseburg Police Department and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the law enforcement profession. 

Thank you for your dedication to the Roseburg Police Department and the public we serve. 

- Sergeant Ryan Dingman

Via  Roseburg Police.

On April 19, 2026, Sergeant Dingman submitted the following Letter of Commendation recognizing Officers Vanderzanden and Rose for their exceptional courage, initiative, and professionalism during a life-saving vehicle accident and river rescue that occurred on April 18, 2026. Their decisive actions and commitment to protecting others directly contributed to the safe rescue of all occupants involved in the incident.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Officers Vanderzanden and Rose, This letter of commendation is in recognition of your actions on April 18, 2026, during a critical incident involving a vehicle that had left the roadway and overturned into a river, with children reported to be screaming from inside the vehicle. Although the incident occurred outside of city limits, both of you independently requested to respond due to the urgency of the call. You arrived prior to my arrival and, despite initial confusion regarding the exact location, quickly located the vehicle. Without hesitation, you made your way down a steep embankment and through dense brush to reach a vehicle that was upside down and partially submerged in the water. Officer Vanderzanden removed his external vest and duty belt and entered the water to assist. He removed a one-year-old child from the mother's arms, who was clinging to the vehicle, and handed the child to Officer Rose, who coordinated with responding personnel to move the child up the embankment to an awaiting ambulance. This process was repeated with a second child, who was also safely removed. You then worked together to provide a life jacket to the driver. As she attempted to climb out using a rope, she was unable to fully make it up the embankment, at which time Officer Rose assisted in pulling her to safety. As a direct result of your actions, all occupants were safely rescued and did not sustain any major injuries. Throughout the incident, you maintained a calm and controlled demeanor while managing a highly dynamic and emotionally charged situation. Your ability to communicate effectively with the victims and other first responders helped bring order to a chaotic scene and contributed to a successful rescue. Following the incident, I received praise from a Douglas County Sheriff's Office supervisor and fire personnel, all of whom recognized your efforts and professionalism. Your initiative, teamwork, and willingness to place yourselves in a hazardous environment to protect others reflect greatly upon yourselves and the Roseburg Police Department and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the law enforcement profession. Thank you for your dedication to the Roseburg Police Department and the public we serve. - Sergeant Ryan DingmanVia Roseburg Police.

Tricia P

Two officers pulled a family from an overturned, submerged vehicle

On April 19, 2026, Sergeant Dingman submitted the following Letter of Commendation recognizing Officers Vanderzanden and Rose for their exceptional courage, initiative, and professionalism during a life-saving vehicle accident and river rescue that occurred on April 18, 2026. Their decisive actions and commitment to protecting others directly contributed to the safe rescue of all occupants involved in the incident.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This letter of commendation is in recognition of your actions on April 18, 2026, during a critical incident involving a vehicle that had left the roadway and overturned into a river, with children reported to be screaming from inside the vehicle. 

Although the incident occurred outside of city limits, both of you independently requested to respond due to the urgency of the call. You arrived prior to my arrival and, despite initial confusion regarding the exact location, quickly located the vehicle. Without hesitation, you made your way down a steep embankment and through dense brush to reach a vehicle that was upside down and partially submerged in the water. 

Officer Vanderzanden removed his external vest and duty belt and entered the water to assist. He removed a one-year-old child from the mother's arms, who was clinging to the vehicle, and handed the child to Officer Rose, who coordinated with responding personnel to move the child up the embankment to an awaiting ambulance. This process was repeated with a second child, who was also safely removed. 

You then worked together to provide a life jacket to the driver. As she attempted to climb out using a rope, she was unable to fully make it up the embankment, at which time Officer Rose assisted in pulling her to safety. 

As a direct result of your actions, all occupants were safely rescued and did not sustain any major injuries. 

Throughout the incident, you maintained a calm and controlled demeanor while managing a highly dynamic and emotionally charged situation. Your ability to communicate effectively with the victims and other first responders helped bring order to a chaotic scene and contributed to a successful rescue. 

Following the incident, I received praise from a Douglas County Sheriff's Office supervisor and fire personnel, all of whom recognized your efforts and professionalism. 

Your initiative, teamwork, and willingness to place yourselves in a hazardous environment to protect others reflect greatly upon yourselves and the Roseburg Police Department and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the law enforcement profession. 

Thank you for your dedication to the Roseburg Police Department and the public we serve. 

Roseburg Officers Commended for River Rescue of Mother and Two Children

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners approved an emergency drought order on Wednesday, April 29, making Douglas County the tenth in Oregon to formally declare drought conditions in 2026.

Public Works Director Scott Adams requested the declaration at the board's weekly business meeting. Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman determined that extraordinary measures were necessary to protect residents, livestock, and the local economy, and to address an elevated wildfire threat, according to a statement from the county.

The county has submitted a signed copy of the order along with a request letter to Governor Tina Kotek, asking for an official executive order under ORS 526.740. Nine other Oregon counties have already received state drought emergency declarations this year: Baker, Deschutes, Umatilla, Wallowa, Grant, Morrow, Crook, Jackson, and Jefferson.

If the governor issues the executive order, it would grant increased flexibility in how water is managed across the county and authorize state agencies, including the Water Resources Commission, to expedite water management tools for users who would not otherwise have access.

Conditions Behind the Order

The data underpinning the declaration paints a stark picture. As of March 24, 2026, the Oregon Water Resources Department reported that Douglas County stream flows were at 58% of average for the month. Soil moisture levels were described as very low, and the snow water equivalent for the Rogue-Umpqua Basin stood at just 14% of the historical median.

The U.S. Drought Monitor classified the majority of Douglas County as being in Moderate Drought as of March 17, 2026. The most recent three-month outlook from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center projected that conditions would likely persist, with above normal temperatures and below average precipitation expected to continue.

Basin water managers expect to regulate surface water rights earlier than usual and at older priority dates than normal, according to the order. The county warned that the lack of surface water will affect irrigators, industrial users, and domestic users alike, and that groundwater supplies for household wells and springs will also be reduced due to insufficient recharge.

Economic and Agricultural Impact

The order specifically cited hardship across Douglas County's agricultural, livestock, forest products, and vineyard sectors. Officials said the drought would lead to decreased feed and pasture production, a shortened growing season, and diminished water supplies for producers throughout the county.

Years of cumulative drought have also reduced fuel moisture across the landscape, resulting in early onset fire danger, the order stated.

The county noted that the drought declaration has not resulted in any residential water use restrictions at this time. Officials encouraged residents to practice water conservation and remain aware that fire danger in Douglas County is already high.

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners approved an emergency drought order on Wednesday, April 29, making Douglas County the tenth in Oregon to formally declare drought conditions in 2026.Public Works Director Scott Adams requested the declaration at the board's weekly business meeting. Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman determined that extraordinary measures were necessary to protect residents, livestock, and the local economy, and to address an elevated wildfire threat, according to a statement from the county.The county has submitted a signed copy of the order along with a request letter to Governor Tina Kotek, asking for an official executive order under ORS 526.740. Nine other Oregon counties have already received state drought emergency declarations this year: Baker, Deschutes, Umatilla, Wallowa, Grant, Morrow, Crook, Jackson, and Jefferson.If the governor issues the executive order, it would grant increased flexibility in how water is managed across the county and authorize state agencies, including the Water Resources Commission, to expedite water management tools for users who would not otherwise have access.<h2 class="!font-semibold tracking-tight">Conditions Behind the Order</h2>The data underpinning the declaration paints a stark picture. As of March 24, 2026, the Oregon Water Resources Department reported that Douglas County stream flows were at 58% of average for the month. Soil moisture levels were described as very low, and the snow water equivalent for the Rogue-Umpqua Basin stood at just 14% of the historical median.The U.S. Drought Monitor classified the majority of Douglas County as being in Moderate Drought as of March 17, 2026. The most recent three-month outlook from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center projected that conditions would likely persist, with above normal temperatures and below average precipitation expected to continue.Basin water managers expect to regulate surface water rights earlier than usual and at older priority dates than normal, according to the order. The county warned that the lack of surface water will affect irrigators, industrial users, and domestic users alike, and that groundwater supplies for household wells and springs will also be reduced due to insufficient recharge.<h2 class="!font-semibold tracking-tight">Economic and Agricultural Impact</h2>The order specifically cited hardship across Douglas County's agricultural, livestock, forest products, and vineyard sectors. Officials said the drought would lead to decreased feed and pasture production, a shortened growing season, and diminished water supplies for producers throughout the county.Years of cumulative drought have also reduced fuel moisture across the landscape, resulting in early onset fire danger, the order stated.The county noted that the drought declaration has not resulted in any residential water use restrictions at this time. Officials encouraged residents to practice water conservation and remain aware that fire danger in Douglas County is already high.

Esther Finlay

Commissioners cite dangerously low stream flows and early fire danger

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners approved an emergency drought order on Wednesday, April 29, making Douglas County the tenth in Oregon to formally declare drought conditions in 2026.

Public Works Director Scott Adams requested the declaration at the board's weekly business meeting. Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman determined that extraordinary measures were necessary to protect residents, livestock, and the local economy, and to address an elevated wildfire threat, according to a statement from the county.

The county has submitted a signed copy of the order along with a request letter to Governor Tina Kotek, asking for an official executive order under ORS 526.740. Nine other Oregon counties have already received state drought emergency declarations this year: Baker, Deschutes, Umatilla, Wallowa, Grant, Morrow, Crook, Jackson, and Jefferson.

If the governor issues the executive order, it would grant increased flexibility in how water is managed across the county and authorize state agencies, including the Water Resources Commission, to expedite water management tools for users who would not otherwise have access.

The data underpinning the declaration paints a stark picture. As of March 24, 2026, the Oregon Water Resources Department reported that Douglas County stream flows were at 58% of average for the month. Soil moisture levels were described as very low, and the snow water equivalent for the Rogue-Umpqua Basin stood at just 14% of the historical median.

The U.S. Drought Monitor classified the majority of Douglas County as being in Moderate Drought as of March 17, 2026. The most recent three-month outlook from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center projected that conditions would likely persist, with above normal temperatures and below average precipitation expected to continue.

Basin water managers expect to regulate surface water rights earlier than usual and at older priority dates than normal, according to the order. The county warned that the lack of surface water will affect irrigators, industrial users, and domestic users alike, and that groundwater supplies for household wells and springs will also be reduced due to insufficient recharge.

The order specifically cited hardship across Douglas County's agricultural, livestock, forest products, and vineyard sectors. Officials said the drought would lead to decreased feed and pasture production, a shortened growing season, and diminished water supplies for producers throughout the county.

Years of cumulative drought have also reduced fuel moisture across the landscape, resulting in early onset fire danger, the order stated.

The county noted that the drought declaration has not resulted in any residential water use restrictions at this time. Officials encouraged residents to practice water conservation and remain aware that fire danger in Douglas County is already high.

Douglas County Declares Emergency Drought Order, Becomes Tenth Oregon County This Year

The Roseburg Lacrosse Club could put itself in position to chase its first OHSLA Southwest Conference championship in over a decade when it hosts South Eugene in its final home game Friday, May 8, at Finlay Field on the Roseburg High School campus. The night will also honor the program's nine graduating seniors, with senior night activities beginning no later than 7 p.m. and game action set to follow at 7:30 p.m.

The boys team enters the week at 5-1 in conference play and 8-3 overall, ranked 21st in the state by the Oregon High School Lacrosse Association. A win on May 1 would keep the Indians in the hunt heading into Senior Night, which could carry significant Southwest Conference title implications depending on how a few other conference games shake out in the days between.

"We gotta win tonight, and if so, expect to be playing for the SW Conference Championship next Friday," head coach Kyle Dever said, while noting that a couple of intervening games still have to play out before Friday's matchup is locked in as a title-deciding contest. Roseburg last won the Southwest Conference in 2013.

The team built momentum with a come-from-behind 12-7 home victory over Sheldon earlier this week, rallying after falling behind early.

Friday's game will double as Senior Night, honoring nine graduating players. A banner display at the field features each senior, including Corey Kimball, Aiden Nutter, Robbie Ashley, Colby Batchelor, Zeke Lander, Drea Burwell, Cruz Dirksen, Peyton Sharpless Tate, Jaden Kemmerle, according to photos provided by the club.

A Club Built on Community Support

Though the Roseburg Lacrosse Club partners with Roseburg High School, lacrosse is not yet sanctioned by the Oregon School Activities Association. That means the program receives no school funding. Coach stipends, safety equipment, uniforms, tournament fees, referee costs, and away game meals all come from sponsors and fundraising, according to the club.

The club is holding a fundraiser and tailgate event Monday, May 4, at Mountain Mike's Pizza, with music, games, and a chance to meet players and coaches. Community members who mention Roseburg Lacrosse when ordering between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. that day will have 20 percent of their purchase donated to the club.

More Than a Sports Team

For board president Jade Parsons, the club carries deeply personal significance. Her son played goalie for Roseburg from middle school through high school before the family lost him to suicide in January 2024, when he was a senior preparing for his final season.

"Lacrosse was something he loved, and the field is where we saw our quiet kid come to life," Parsons said. "He was dedicated to the sport year-round and led and inspired his team when he was in goal."

Parsons said the lacrosse community across Oregon rallied around her family after their loss. That support motivated her to take on the club presidency. The Oregon High School Lacrosse Association is promoting Mental Health Month and suicide awareness at games and on social media next week, in part because of the Parsons family's experience and others within the lacrosse community, according to Parsons.

"This is more than just a sports team for many of us," she said.

If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text 988.

The Roseburg Lacrosse Club could put itself in position to chase its first OHSLA Southwest Conference championship in over a decade when it hosts South Eugene in its final home game Friday, May 8, at Finlay Field on the Roseburg High School campus. The night will also honor the program's nine graduating seniors, with senior night activities beginning no later than 7 p.m. and game action set to follow at 7:30 p.m.The boys team enters the week at 5-1 in conference play and 8-3 overall, ranked 21st in the state by the Oregon High School Lacrosse Association. A win on May 1 would keep the Indians in the hunt heading into Senior Night, which could carry significant Southwest Conference title implications depending on how a few other conference games shake out in the days between."We gotta win tonight, and if so, expect to be playing for the SW Conference Championship next Friday," head coach Kyle Dever said, while noting that a couple of intervening games still have to play out before Friday's matchup is locked in as a title-deciding contest. Roseburg last won the Southwest Conference in 2013.The team built momentum with a come-from-behind 12-7 home victory over Sheldon earlier this week, rallying after falling behind early.Friday's game will double as Senior Night, honoring nine graduating players. A banner display at the field features each senior, including Corey Kimball, Aiden Nutter, Robbie Ashley, Colby Batchelor, Zeke Lander, Drea Burwell, Cruz Dirksen, Peyton Sharpless Tate, Jaden Kemmerle, according to photos provided by the club.<h2 class="!font-semibold tracking-tight">A Club Built on Community Support</h2>Though the Roseburg Lacrosse Club partners with Roseburg High School, lacrosse is not yet sanctioned by the Oregon School Activities Association. That means the program receives no school funding. Coach stipends, safety equipment, uniforms, tournament fees, referee costs, and away game meals all come from sponsors and fundraising, according to the club.The club is holding a fundraiser and tailgate event Monday, May 4, at Mountain Mike's Pizza, with music, games, and a chance to meet players and coaches. Community members who mention Roseburg Lacrosse when ordering between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. that day will have 20 percent of their purchase donated to the club.<h2 class="!font-semibold tracking-tight">More Than a Sports Team</h2>For board president Jade Parsons, the club carries deeply personal significance. Her son played goalie for Roseburg from middle school through high school before the family lost him to suicide in January 2024, when he was a senior preparing for his final season."Lacrosse was something he loved, and the field is where we saw our quiet kid come to life," Parsons said. "He was dedicated to the sport year-round and led and inspired his team when he was in goal."Parsons said the lacrosse community across Oregon rallied around her family after their loss. That support motivated her to take on the club presidency. The Oregon High School Lacrosse Association is promoting Mental Health Month and suicide awareness at games and on social media next week, in part because of the Parsons family's experience and others within the lacrosse community, according to Parsons."This is more than just a sports team for many of us," she said.If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text 988.

Sophia Gardin

Club team at 8-3 overall heads into final home game Friday at Finlay Field

The Roseburg Lacrosse Club could put itself in position to chase its first OHSLA Southwest Conference championship in over a decade when it hosts South Eugene in its final home game Friday, May 8, at Finlay Field on the Roseburg High School campus. The night will also honor the program's nine graduating seniors, with senior night activities beginning no later than 7 p.m. and game action set to follow at 7:30 p.m.

The boys team enters the week at 5-1 in conference play and 8-3 overall, ranked 21st in the state by the Oregon High School Lacrosse Association. A win on May 1 would keep the Indians in the hunt heading into Senior Night, which could carry significant Southwest Conference title implications depending on how a few other conference games shake out in the days between.

"We gotta win tonight, and if so, expect to be playing for the SW Conference Championship next Friday," head coach Kyle Dever said, while noting that a couple of intervening games still have to play out before Friday's matchup is locked in as a title-deciding contest. Roseburg last won the Southwest Conference in 2013.

The team built momentum with a come-from-behind 12-7 home victory over Sheldon earlier this week, rallying after falling behind early.

Friday's game will double as Senior Night, honoring nine graduating players. A banner display at the field features each senior, including Corey Kimball, Aiden Nutter, Robbie Ashley, Colby Batchelor, Zeke Lander, Drea Burwell, Cruz Dirksen, Peyton Sharpless Tate, Jaden Kemmerle, according to photos provided by the club.

Though the Roseburg Lacrosse Club partners with Roseburg High School, lacrosse is not yet sanctioned by the Oregon School Activities Association. That means the program receives no school funding. Coach stipends, safety equipment, uniforms, tournament fees, referee costs, and away game meals all come from sponsors and fundraising, according to the club.

The club is holding a fundraiser and tailgate event Monday, May 4, at Mountain Mike's Pizza, with music, games, and a chance to meet players and coaches. Community members who mention Roseburg Lacrosse when ordering between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. that day will have 20 percent of their purchase donated to the club.

For board president Jade Parsons, the club carries deeply personal significance. Her son played goalie for Roseburg from middle school through high school before the family lost him to suicide in January 2024, when he was a senior preparing for his final season.

"Lacrosse was something he loved, and the field is where we saw our quiet kid come to life," Parsons said. "He was dedicated to the sport year-round and led and inspired his team when he was in goal."

Parsons said the lacrosse community across Oregon rallied around her family after their loss. That support motivated her to take on the club presidency. The Oregon High School Lacrosse Association is promoting Mental Health Month and suicide awareness at games and on social media next week, in part because of the Parsons family's experience and others within the lacrosse community, according to Parsons.

"This is more than just a sports team for many of us," she said.

If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text 988.

Incredible Sunset Last Night

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