[Heritage] Oregon Heritage News 2026-06-05

[INFO Heritage * OPRD]

Oregon Heritage News 2026-06-05
In this Issue:

  *   Oregon Heritage Webinar: Disaster Planning 101 for Small Heritage Orgs, July 8
  *   Webinar: Using Free Mobile Apps for Accessibility: Practical Digital Tools for Small Museums, July 23 & July 24
  *   City of Monmouth seeks consultant to develop a Cultural Resources Management Plan
  *   Funding opportunities
  *   NPS Underrepresented Communities (URC) Grant Program is now accepting applications
  *   National Survey of Museum Collecting Practices
  *   Intro to Community Archiving online course
  *   Eugene's Prefontaine Classic designated an Oregon Heritage Tradition
  *   Collections Grants from the Registrars Committee - Western Region
  *   Oregon Tourism Commission Announces Travel Oregon Executive Director

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Oregon Heritage Webinar: Disaster Planning 101 for Small Heritage Orgs, July 8
Disaster Planning 101 for Small Heritage Organizations
July 8, 2026, 10am-12pm
Free to attend
Register here!<https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/edzgr_H2RfuyYjHSGAO5Ug>
Planning for disasters of all sizes and shapes is essential to the continuity of small heritage organizations. From the burst water pipe in a collection, to a board or staff retirement leading to mass data or institutional knowledge loss, to a large wildfire threatening the institution - responses and plans can be structured similarly with a systemic approach. While the concept of disaster planning may sound daunting, it is easily broken into small bite-sized pieces that ultimately come together to form a cohesive strategy for success. From knowing who to call for what, to understanding what supplies are available to respond, to knowing your local resources and network - many of these steps are already engrained in how you work. Mapping out the response is just putting these puzzle pieces together so you know where to look when disaster strikes.
Presenter: Jen Cole, Dean of Pacific Northwest College of Art & Oregon Heritage Mentor
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Webinar: Using Free Mobile Apps for Accessibility: Practical Digital Tools for Small Museums, July 23 & July 24
"Using Free Mobile Apps for Accessibility: Practical Digital Tools for Small Museums" explores how museums can leverage free mobile apps to improve visitor accessibility, communication, navigation, and planning. The session is designed specifically for small museums, historic sites, and solo practitioners seeking practical, affordable solutions they can implement immediately.
This webinar originated from a presentation at the 2026 Texas Association of Museums Annual Meeting.
Participants will learn about:
* Navigation and wayfinding tools
* Captioning and communication apps
* Visual interpretation and magnification resources
* Translation supports
* Sensory and cognitive planning tools
* Mobile tools that increase visitor independence

Workshop Details
* Virtual Workshop, July 23 @ 4:30 pm OR July 25 @ 10 am CT
* 90 Minutes
* Free Registration
* Hosted by Kaleidoscope Heritage Focus (Register: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C054AAFAF2AA3FFC25-64393395-using#/ )

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City of Monmouth seeks consultant to develop a Cultural Resources Management Plan
The City of Monmouth is looking to contract with a consultant to develop a Cultural Resources Management Plan. More information about the project as well as the RFP can be found at https://tinyurl.com/MonmouthCRMP.
Goals: The creation and adoption of a document which:
1. Outlines the community's vision and goals for the management of cultural resources;
2. Centralizes information about Monmouth's historical context, prevalent architectural styles, and the condition of existing historic resources;
3. Describes preservation priorities and strategies tailored to support the community's vision and goals.
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Funding opportunities
Pacific Power Community Enhancement Grant | Access Link<https://pacificorpfoundation.fluxx.io/>

  *   June 15th: Community Enhancement - affordable housing, community and rec centers, economic development, libraries, monuments, memorials, science centers
  *   September 15th: Arts & culture grant: Arts festivals, cultural heritage, museums, music, theater/drama, visual arts
  *   December 15th: Safety and wellness grant: Disability resources, disaster relief, homelessness support, public safety initiatives, veterans, wellness and more
Oregon Community Foundation  - Community Grants Program | Access Link<https://oregoncf.org/grants-and-scholarships/grants/community-grant-program>
Kinsman Foundation - Historic Preservation | Access Link<https://kinsmanfoundation.org/historic-preservation/>
Metro Community Placemaking Grant | check here.<https://www.oregonmetro.gov/grants/community-placemaking-grants#who-can-apply> The Metro Community Placemaking grant supports community-led, equity-focused, arts & culture-based efforts. For information on applying & preparing applications ahead of the August opening,
Spirit Mountain Foundation | Access Link<https://thecommunityfund.com/grant-information/general-purpose-grants/> General purpose grants at two tiers, small and large for differing amounts associated with programmatic work and capital projects.
Roundhouse Technical Assistance Grant | Access Link<https://roundhousefoundation.org/grant-stories/technical-assistance-grant-tag/> Pay for staff to attend conferences/trainings, hire consultants for strategic plan, succession plan, or fundraising plan, or purchase highly specialized equipment/software. This small grant opportunity is open to Culture & Heritage organizations.
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NPS Underrepresented Communities (URC) Grant Program is now accepting applications
The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)  P25AS00510<https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/362649> is posted on Grants.gov and applications will be accepted through 11:59pm ET, July 7, 2026.
The Department of the Interior (DOI) in cooperation with the National Park Service (NPS) Underrepresented Communities Grant Program<https://www.nps.gov/subjects/historicpreservationfund/underrepresented-community-grants.htm> (URC) is now accepting applications for competitive grants. The purpose of the URC grant program is to expand the listings associated with communities currently underrepresented in the National Register of Historic Places and among National Historic Landmarks.
All URC-funded projects must result in the submission of a new or amended nomination to the National Register of Historic Places<https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalregister/index.htm> or National Historic Landmark Program<https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1582/index.htm> to include underrepresented communities. Projects can include surveys and development of historic contexts or Multiple Property covers, but every project must include at least one nomination or amendment. Projects that propose multiple nominations are also encouraged.
Application due date: July 7, 2026, 11:59 PM, ET.
Total funding available: $1,250,000 (Fiscal Year 2025)
Expected Award Amount: Maximum Award: $100,000 | Minimum Award: $15,000
Grants are awarded through a competitive process and do not require non-Federal funding match.
You'll find a fact sheet and more information about the Underrepresented Communities Grants<https://www.nps.gov/subjects/historicpreservationfund/underrepresented-community-grants.htm> on our website, but applications must be made via Grants.gov under Opportunity Number P25AS00510<https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/362649>.  The URC Grant Program is funded by appropriations from the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) and managed by DOI and NPS. Funding for the HPF is provided from Outer Continental Shelf oil and gas lease revenues, not tax dollars.
Eligible applicants include:

  *   State Historic Preservation Offices
  *   Tribal Historic Preservation Offices
  *   Federally recognized Tribes, Alaska Native Villages/Corporations, and Native Hawaiian Organizations
  *   Certified Local Governments (confirm eligibility here: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/clg/index.htm)
  *   Non-profit Organizations
For more information and to apply for the Underrepresented Communities Grant Program, visit grants.gov: P25AS00510<https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/362649>.
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National Survey of Museum Collecting Practices
The Penn Cultural Heritage Center at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology is developing a comprehensive picture of how U.S. museums and similar institutions acquire, borrow, deaccession, resolve ownership questions about, and conduct provenance research on cultural objects. They have opened a survey for any U.S. nonprofit institution<https://u83566.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.iJ7Qj5aSuxGQi5HryUicDJmbMrVFX1y9oFiaSNB90o1AbLhmId3yJe0Edo-2BFtDio5qM8pvtkMstFCFDfPUx-2Fn9DiGB6hhHys5l7VXQE0LD0-3DGd0y_mQgQcPVJOAOvGzPbJ5Z8884yuPAPfTcSGBfVyHYckylxfRzcjUxcClHUuCQ2hEoNm12mEZoUeVcWG9LcTFHkUoPsbiJMhoRP60CQ8bg9n37-2FZ6ciCM78FHDnR9D2IMXkTjx2dmV3Se4lvUqrWNj9IAEeqY60vzJnTOOQmuqhbItvQh5IeSbRlb7PBI25SI5GVC7k3bwTyUDVHkGdA8NlhCF4BAVZkN-2F4rwEgnEbXP7RYdFRKtWB3Hgvi1tSjUB-2FsG5DOXx8vZ2kxwnXl8Avvcvqwha9UzpMbXFXn7qKp5NOt2KotAOs2xHy6fyy7WxJupp4x5HajioNelpEdAblsRKE4mva8ooTtUWa5qt-2F4QbFXCFZI9ntTD-2BCQT6c24IAREFeXH7Mjvl7QKssfvQt8gu4txPxMQkZlWIsHN-2BuLI-2Bu-2BANWB-2FAkDicfy7-2FAj8c1cDHNFog5a66q3WBovoStzw-2BJvXyGj9KUzFGc38nRJ-2F5vNRz23gph0-2FGbUB3PwH-2BkQhJIpQ-2BifBi6fWIlgEZ5QskGlpc0-2FU7CCFS-2FsWVwEeu2NlER7GttaKer6D7R6FSjxVfJzDCaYrNdcL90MQRLRdQs5m9ZOG6vta0nPN4ECasPWwZXJ-2FVz-2BZeA4zATnc0v2EZ3fXEX-2BUv16ASU8nC-2B-2FKfMH7ia2IcFWloSRtqSFw1A-3D> that collects or stewards cultural objects and self-identifies as a museum, library, or other collection.
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Intro to Community Archiving online course
INTRO TO COMMUNITY ARCHIVING: Online / asynchronous course Learn how to organize community history collection initiatives. Discover collaborative approaches that prioritize shared authority and ethical stewardship.
BEGINS June 8, 2026 -4-week course -Earns a certificate and 1 CEU -Total time commitment of only 10 hours
LEARN MORE & REGISTER HERE- https://preservethis.org/p/intro-to-community-archiving-summer
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Eugene's Prefontaine Classic designated an Oregon Heritage Tradition
The Prefontaine Classic approaches its 51st year with an Oregon Heritage Tradition designation by the Oregon Heritage Commission.
The Prefontaine Classic is the 29th event in Oregon to be designed an Oregon Heritage Tradition. Other Oregon Heritage Traditions include the Great Oregon Steam-up in Brooks, Oregon State Fair, Medford's Pear Blossom Festival, the Pendleton Round-Up, and the Woodburn Fiesta Mexicana.
"The designation recognizes those traditions that have been ongoing for 50 years or more, add to the livability and identity of the state, and has a public profile that distinguishes it from other events," said Katie Henry, Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator.
On June 7, 1975, the first annual Prefontaine Classic was held. The roots of the Prefontaine Classic began in 1973 as the Hayward Restoration Meet. Oregon track & field coach Bill Bowerman and the Oregon Track Club hosted the event to raise funds for the renovation of the West Grandstands at Historic Hayward Field. After the fundraising needs were met, the meet was set to be renamed to the Bowerman Classic to honor Bill Bowerman. Eight days before the inaugural Bowerman Classic, it was renamed the Prefontaine Classic following the loss of Steve Prefontaine - one of the State of Oregon's most well-known and decorated athletes.
Today the Prefontaine Classic is organized by Track Town Events, LLC and the Oregon Track Club. The event stays true to the core of the Prefontaine Classic by hosting the best track & field athletes from around the globe every year for competition in sprint, distance, jumping, and throwing events. This competition continues to honor Steve Prefontaine and his competitive spirit.
"We are humbled and honored for The Prefontaine Classic to receive Oregon Heritage Tradition designation," said Jody Smith, co-Meeting Director. "This recognition is a testament to the Oregon Track Club and all those who built the world's best track & field meet. As the current stewards of the event, we remain committed to upholding Pre's spirit by bringing the world's best athletes and performances to Hayward Field at the University of Oregon."
The Prefontaine Classic hosts approximately 12,000 fans in person every year, with close to one-third of them traveling in from outside the state of Oregon for the event. In 2025, the estimated economic impact of the meet totaled $4.1 million.
The Commission will be presenting the Heritage Tradition Designation to Track Town Events, LLC and the Oregon Track Club at the 51st annual Prefontaine Classic, July 3-4, at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon.
The application process along with a list of designated Traditions is available at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/pages/heritage-designations.aspx.
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Collections Grants from the Registrars Committee - Western Region
Grant proposal projects must be collections based.
Max $1,000 budget.
What kinds of projects do we fund? Almost everything; including but not limited to preservation, access, digitization, and maintenance.
Partial projects are funded as well as complete projects; you have a large scale rehousing that $1,000 will only fund part of, that's okay.
No cost-share
One Principal Investigator must be a member of RC-WR (membership is only $25; $15 for volunteers)
Applications due August 15, 2026.
Application: 1,000 word limited narrative, timeline, and budget. Two images showing the work that may be used by RC-WR for promotional purposes is preferred.
RC-WR will prioritize, but not limit to projects that had their grants cancelled.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfSZyeARSBjl0G--MLiV0UmsDjed8RT9KFMG341c19sOJhCgg/viewform
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Oregon Tourism Commission Announces Travel Oregon Executive Director
The Oregon Tourism Commission, in a unanimous vote, announced that Kate Sinner will serve as the next Executive Director of Travel Oregon. Travel Oregon is the state's destination management organization, promoting tourism, supporting local economies, and managing the state's travel assets.
Kate succeeds Todd Davidson, who retired last June after nearly 30 years as the agency's executive leader and served as Interim Director during the recruitment and hiring process.
"This job calls for someone who understands the state's economic landscape, appreciates Oregon's unique assets and cultures, and can effectively work at the intersection of government and private industry to create opportunities and growth that build vibrant communities," said Greg Willitts, Chair of the Oregon Tourism Commission. "Kate strikes the right balance between government executive leadership and private-sector acumen. She is passionate about Oregon, and her energy is infectious. Kate is the leader we need for Travel Oregon."
Kate has dedicated her career to economic development through policy, research, and community engagement. She served in a Governor's office representing Hood River, Wasco and Sherman Counties; at Oregon State University, developed and led a successful strategy to secure more federal research and education funds for Oregon, with an emphasis on rural and coastal communities; and at Business Oregon, overseeing the State's Innovation and Entrepreneurship (E&I) Strategy, Oregon Innovation Council (Oregon, Inc.), and the Oregon Growth Board (OGB). Most recently, she has served as the Innovation & Business and Resources Director at Business Oregon. In this role, she has managed a statewide staff and a budget of more than $200 million to drive innovation and foster collaboration, delivering jobs and economic growth for small businesses and communities across Oregon.
"The travel and tourism industry has grown over the last 20 years to become one of Oregon's strongest economic pillars," Governor Tina Kotek said. "I am excited for the opportunities ahead under Kate's leadership to broaden our approach to destination management so that we maximize the economic potential of travel and business development in every corner of our state, while staying true to Oregon's values. Kate's breadth of knowledge and steadfast leadership will serve Travel Oregon well."
The Commission also authorized a salary of up to $249,000/annually, which aligns with the salaries of other state agency economic development directors. Healthcare, vacation, and retirement are also consistent with state agency guidelines and benefits packages. Kate will be based in the Portland office headquarters and begin on July 6, 2026.
"I am honored and humbled to be selected for this important position for Oregon," said Kate Sinner upon receiving the offer from the Commission. "My entire career has been dedicated to Oregon, and I can't think of a better way to contribute to its economic success than serving in this role with the many partners across the state. I am excited to get started."
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Oregon Heritage News is a service of Oregon Heritage, a division of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department that includes the State Historic Preservation Office. Learn more about our programs at www.oregonheritage.org<http://www.oregonheritage.org/>. The news editor can be contacted at heritage.info at oprd.oregon.gov<mailto:heritage.info at oprd.oregon.gov>.

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