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To contact me, please click here: Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov
Hello Friends,
I hope you've been able to get out and enjoy the beautiful spring weather. Now that the Primary Election is past us, so is our ethically mandated black out period for mass communications through state resources. Our newsletters will return monthly until we reach our next black out period this fall before the General Election. While this may seem like a quiet season in regard to legislative work, there is always work to be done and I've enjoyed connecting with constituents during this time. Please read on to learn about what's been happening over the past couple of months.
Town Halls
 Town Halls are a wonderful way to engage with constituents. In April, Senator Starr, Representative Scharf, and I shared short session updates and legislative priorities at a town hall at Stillwater in McMinnville, hosted by the McMinnville and Chehalem Valley Chambers of Commerce. 100 people showed up to listen and ask questions.
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Later in the month, Senator Starr and I enjoyed a lively discussion with the people of my hometown, Willamina. Every Town Hall brings it's own dynamic, but I was encouraged to see how invested Oregonians are becoming in matters of state government. Citizens want to know what's happening and how they can make their voice count. |
Dorchester
 I was honored to attend this year’s Dorchester Conference alongside so many dedicated leaders and community members from across Oregon. Dorchester continues to be an important opportunity to bring people together for thoughtful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing our state.
For nearly six decades, the Dorchester Conference has been a cornerstone of Oregon political dialogue and remains the oldest political conference west of the Mississippi. Founded in 1965 by future U.S. Senator Robert Packwood, Dorchester was created as a forum for moderate Republican voices and has since hosted generations of influential political leaders and national figures. Now held annually in Welches, Oregon, the conference continues its tradition of spirited debate and discussion on the issues shaping Oregon and the nation.
The weekend included a number of engaging discussions and panels, including the Republican gubernatorial debate featuring Christine Drazan, Ed Diehl, and Chris Dudley; a panel on the transportation referendum; an issue debate on the Iran War; and a federal races discussion with Senator David Brock Smith and Commissioner Patti Adair. We also heard remarks from Congressman Cliff Bentz and Oregon Republican Party Chair Connie Whelchel, and recognized House and Senate caucus members who attended the conference.
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 One of the highlights for me was attending the Women in Leadership Breakfast, which featured Gail Wilhelms, Angela Wilhelms, Commissioner Danielle Bethell, and Representative Darcey Edwards. Their leadership and service to Oregon communities are deeply appreciated.
I was also truly humbled to receive the Dorchester Rising Star Award. I’m grateful for the encouragement and support of colleagues, friends, and constituents, and I remain committed to working collaboratively to serve the people of Oregon.
Yamhill County Republican Women
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On April 23rd, I was invited to speak at the Yamhill County Republican Women's meeting and luncheon.
This organization of dedicated ladies is committed to supporting conservative causes, candidates, and policies that strengthen our communities and protect our state’s future. Their passion for staying informed and engaging their neighbors in meaningful conversations is exactly what keeps our democratic process strong.
I had the opportunity to recap this year’s short legislative session, share updates on key issues, and answer thoughtful questions from the group. I’m always grateful for these conversations and the chance to hear directly from engaged citizens.
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Juliette's House Fundraiser
 It was an honor to attend and support the recent fundraiser for Juliette's House, an organization doing deeply important work on behalf of children and families in our community. Their mission — providing compassionate prevention, assessment, and support services for children impacted by abuse — reflects a commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow up safe, supported, and healthy.
Juliette’s House also reminds us that preventing child abuse is a shared responsibility. Building strong families and caring communities takes all of us working together, and I’m grateful for the advocates, staff, volunteers, and supporters who make this work possible every day.
Hope's Garden
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I recently had the opportunity to tour Hope's Garden Maternity Home, and it was truly a meaningful experience. This historic home, which recently celebrated 100 years, now serves as a place of support and stability for mothers and their babies.
During the visit, I had the chance to learn more about the program, hear powerful stories, and see the firsthand impact it has on the families it serves. Hope’s Garden provides a safe and encouraging environment for mothers working to build a strong foundation for their future, and it was inspiring to witness the care and dedication behind their mission.
I look forward to seeing their continued growth and the expanded opportunities they will provide for even more families.
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Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony
 “What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.”
- Albert Pike
The Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony was held on May 5th at Department of Public Safety Standards and Training. It was a time to come together to remember and pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service to our communities.
Two hundred flags lined the driveway — 199 representing Oregon’s fallen officers, and one honoring those across our nation. I’m grateful that no new names were added to Oregon’s memorial this year, though we know the weight of these losses is always carried forward.
Two wreaths were placed during the ceremony: one representing the loss of a loved one, and the other symbolizing the loss of a colleague. Both speak to the deep and lasting impact these heroes leave behind.
This ceremony held special meaning for me. During the 2025 legislative session, I introduced HCR 38 to honor Deputy Paul E. Baker, Yamhill County’s only fallen deputy. It was a privilege to help ensure his service and sacrifice are formally recognized and remembered.
We remember their service. We honor their sacrifice. And we stand in support of those who continue to serve every day.
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Life and Legislation With Lucetta
 Curious about AI?
Wondering what role the legislature should play in the conversation?
Be sure to subscribe to my podcast, Life and Legislation With Lucetta, a place where listeners can get to know me better, learn about how the legislation works, and also hear about current and relevant topics. Our next episode will feature special guest Joe Sessions and an engaging conversation about AI and state government. You can listen along on your favorite podcast platform or watch on my YouTube Channel.
Coolest Thing Made in Oregon Contest
Do you know of an Oregon business making something uniquely Oregon? Maybe it’s a product you use and love — or maybe it’s something made right where you work. Either way, now is the perfect time to help celebrate the innovation and craftsmanship happening across our state. You can nominate a product for Oregon Business & Industry’s Coolest Thing Made in Oregon contest by visiting the Coolest Thing Made in Oregon web page and enter a few, simple pieces of information.
Oregon Business & Industry is accepting nominations for its annual “Coolest Thing Made in Oregon” contest, which shines a spotlight on the incredible products manufactured in communities throughout Oregon. The contest features a friendly, bracket-style competition highlighting 16 finalists selected from nominations submitted by Oregonians statewide.
Nominations are open through July 10 and only take a few minutes to complete. Products must be substantially manufactured in Oregon and available for legal purchase in all 50 states. Finalists will be announced in September, with the winner revealed at OBI’s Vision Oregon event on October 28.
Past winners have included everything from handcrafted glass to advanced aircraft and innovative mass timber products — proof that Oregon businesses continue to lead with creativity, skill, and ingenuity. If there’s a product you think deserves recognition, I encourage you to nominate it and help share Oregon’s story of innovation.
Coolest Thing Made in Oregon finalists will be announced in September, at which point the voting will begin. The winner will be announced at OBI’s Vision Oregon Event on Oct. 28.
OBI is a statewide association representing businesses from a wide variety of industries and from each of Oregon’s 36 counties. In addition to being the statewide chamber of commerce, OBI is the state affiliate for the National Association of Manufacturers and the National Retail Federation.
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Alien Days!
 In 1950, McMinnville became the center of UFO mania after a local couple captured one of the most famous flying saucer sightings in the country. Fifty years later, the town launched its very first UFO Festival — and this past weekend, McMinnville hosted #26!
Alien Days offers fun and adventure for our locals and guests from all over the world. There is no shortage of amazing and surprising creatures hanging out on 3rd Street. Our District Outreach Coordinator, Jessica Campbell, and her family found many new friends who were out of this world!
The days were packed with expert speakers, a bustling street fair, podcast recordings, live music, the Landing Party, trivia, fun runs, costume contests, the Alien Costume Ball, and more extraterrestrial fun than ever before.
It's wonderful to see such an incredible event bring together locals and visitors, businesses and tourism. There is truly something for everyone and I love having this iconic festival right here in our district.
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Yours truly,
 Representative Lucetta Elmer
House District 24
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1424
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-395, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/elmer
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