Willamette Valley News, Friday 6/6 – Tickets Go On Sale Today for Lane County Fair, Lane Community College Cancels Practical Nursing Program & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com

Friday, June 6, 2025

Willamette Valley Weather

Stay updated with the National Weather Service and NOAA for the latest information on evolving conditions.

The Lane County Fair – Tickets Go On Sale Friday June 6

  ·  Big news, Fair fans! Concert tickets AND all other Lane County Fair tickets go on sale JUNE 6 @ 9am!

HAVE A BLAST WORKING FOR THE FAIR! Multiple Positions Open: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lanecountyor/jobs/4932327/fair-worker-multiple-positions?keywords=extra%20help&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Let the countdown to fun begin! Mark your calendars! JULY 23 – 27, 2025 https://www.atthefair.com/

Lane Community College Cancels Practical Nursing Program Despite Record Number of Applicants

Lane Community College has announced that its Licensed Practical Nursing program will close this year, impacting nearly 40 hopeful applicants on track to become front line caregivers.

On May 29, just one week before acceptance notifications were due to arrive, prospective nursing students were informed by email that the Practical Nursing cohort for Fall 2025 has been suspended. No reason was given.

KLCC obtained a copy of the May 29 email to LPN program applicants, sent by Jennifer Tavernier, Director of Nursing and Associate Dean of Health Professions, Health, PE & Athletics. In it, applicants were told “your application fee will be fully reimbursed. Additionally, as we explore the possibility of offering a future cohort, we would be happy to move your application forward without requiring you to reapply or pay another fee.”

It also suggested reaching out to the Health Profession Advising Team if interested in applying to another Health Profession program at LCC.

At a public hearing Wednesday night, Nursing Program faculty instructor Jill Tauchert told the LCC Board of Education that closure of the LPN program will exacerbate staffing shortages and have a serious impact on the community.

“Let me be very clear: This is not just the closing of a program. It’s the closing of a pathway,” she said. “Over the years, we’ve proudly graduated students who have gone on to serve in our local hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics and surgery centers. Our graduates are the faces you’ve seen caring for your parents, your children and maybe even for you.”

Tauchert told board members that, at 40, this year’s applicant pool for the LPN program is a record number.

“This is not the time to cut nursing,” she said.

Tauchert told the board that LPN students at Lane have minimal attrition, meaning most stay in school through program completion. She added that many of the LPN students are from underserved backgrounds.

“With the closure of this program, our health care facilities lose a vital part of their workforce, our most vulnerable patients lose their frontline caregivers, and our students—those whom this college was built to support—lose hope,” she said.

LCC spokesperson Jenna McCulley told KLCC the LPN program is “on pause” to evaluate its fiscal and operational viability. (SOURCE)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: South Cascade and Western Lane District Fire Season Begins June 9

– Fire season on all lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) South Cascade and Western Lane District will begin June 9, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. Starting this Monday, the district’s fire danger level will be “MODERATE” (BLUE), and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one).

Earlier this year, fire managers were optimistic regarding this year’s fire season due to the higher-than-normal snowpack and winter rainfall. However, due to the decline in spring rain and rise in temperatures, conditions in the districts are quickly changing to be more susceptible to fire.

Before bringing a fire hazard on the landscape, check the fire restrictions in your local area or the area you’re traveling to.

Beginning June 9, the South Cascade and Western Lane Districts will be implementing restrictions based on fire danger level. MODERATE (BLUE) fire danger level restricts the following activities:

• No debris burning, including piles and burn barrels, unless permitted by the local forester.
• Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited.
• No smoking while traveling through or working in any operational area.
• Use of spark emitting equipment (power saws, mowers, etc.), including the mowing of dried cured grass, is prohibited after 1:00 p.m. and before 8:00 p.m.

In addition to the fire prevention requirements Under IFPL I (one), the following will go into effect:

• A fire watch is required for a minimum of one hour during breaks and at the end of the operational period.

Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on the changing fire risks throughout the fire season.

The Oregon Department of Forestry urges residents not to become complacent in wildfire prevention. The fewer human-caused fires we have, the less the district’s resources are strained.

ODF’s Western Lane and South Cascade District protect state and private lands in Linn, Lane, and northern Douglas County. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org. Check your local restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

The driver accused of fatally striking a woman jogging on the Amazon Parkway has been arrested more than a month after the crash

Scott Shawn Stolarczyk, 51, was booked into the Lane County Jail Thursday, June 5, on charges of second-degree manslaughter and driving under the influence of intoxicants.

According to investigators, Stolarczyk was driving a Toyota RAV4 on the morning of April 23rd, when his vehicle veered off the roadway and struck Sharon Schuman, a respected University of Oregon literature professor, author, and accomplished musician. She died as a result of her injuries.

Court documents indicate that Stolarczyk had a blood alcohol content of 0.23 — nearly three times the legal limit — shortly after the crash. He reportedly told police that he believed a coughing fit caused him to pass out behind the wheel, and that he did not remember the crash. The court ordered Stolarczyk to appear for arraignment on June 17th.

OHCS tours innovative builder shaping the future of modular housing in Oregon

— Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) Executive Director Andrea Bell visited a modular home production facility in Aumsville, Oregon to get a firsthand look at how state investments are being put to work to accelerate housing solutions. The company, Blazer Industries, is one of four recipients of OHCS’ Modular Housing Development Fund (MHDF), created through House Bill 2001 (2023).

“We have a governor and a legislature that championed these investments and see modular as an important part of our state’s housing continuum,” Executive Director Bell said. “Oregon is a national leader in housing innovation. OHCS is investing in modular construction for its potential to reduce costs, shorten development timelines, and expand access to affordable housing – all without compromising safety or quality.”

During last week’s tour, Blazer Industries leaders and Executive Director Bell discussed several topics, including:  

• Strengthening the modular construction workforce  

• Leveraging technology to improve building efficiency  

• Expanding affordable housing options across the state

“The MHDF grant has enabled Blazer to assemble a team of experts in design, construction, systems development and technology to focus on increasing capacity to produce housing,” said Kendra Cox, owner and business development manager at Blazer Industries. “The residential product line will include ADUs, cottage clusters, small multifamily, and main street live-work designs along with off the shelf emergency replacement models and a smoother procurement process.” 

With a $5 million grant from OHCS, Blazer Industries is upgrading its technology and software systems, creating off-the-shelf home designs, and streamlining production operations. Blazer Industries projects they can produce 100 to 200 additional homes per year.  

Modular construction is a building method where structures are made in factory-built sections and then assembled on-site. It can offer numerous benefits, including cost savings, faster construction times, and scalability for emergency housing. Blazer Industries will prioritize producing disaster recovery units first, followed by ongoing production of units for lower- and middle-income homeowners.  

As one of the OHCS grantees, Blazer Industries received the funding to boost affordable modular construction in Oregon. OHCS expects modular homes to increase housing options, especially in rural communities where there is a critical need for new construction.   

Watch a video of OHCS’ visit to Blazer Industries here.

Eugene Springfield Fire Responds to Springfield House Fire

Springfield, Oregon.  ESF is on scene of an active house fire in the 500 block of S 5th Street.  The initial reports indicated that the occupants had evacuated. 

Engine 5 from our Harlow Station found an active fire upon arrival and entered through a window for fire control and primary search.  

A full alarm assignment has arrived on scene and the fire has been placed under control. Motorists were told toavoid the area until work is done.

Career Criminal Sentenced to Thirteen Years in Federal Prison for Manufacturing and Selling THC and Psilocybin Products Nationwide

Organization Infused THC into Cereal and Candy Products Posing Risk to Children

—Jered Hayward, 45, of Salem, Oregon, was sentenced today to 156 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 1,000 kilograms of marijuana and conspiracy to launder the proceeds. He also agreed to forfeit assets worth more than $2 million dollars.

According to court documents, Hayward operated a large-scale THC and psilocybin production and distribution facility headquartered in Salem. As part of his operation, Hayward and his employees obtained cereal and candy products and infused or sprayed potent THC oils on them.  They then inserted the edibles into packages which mimicked the legitimate consumer food products, and sold them throughout the United States and internationally. While there was no evidence Hayward deliberately targeted minors, the manner in which his organization packaged the edibles posed a risk to children, who are often unable to comprehend the fine print warnings that the packages contained THC products.

Hayward’s organization utilized encrypted communications such as Telegram to market, sell and process orders, and straw businesses to mask money laundering transactions. Hayward had no permits or licenses to produce or sell these products; the entire operation was illegal.

Hayward has an extensive criminal record, including three prior state and federal convictions for marijuana and fentanyl trafficking. Because of these convictions, he is a career criminal under federal law.

Hayward agreed to forfeit substantial assets which he admitted were related to his drug and money laundering enterprise. As part of his guilty plea Hayward agreed to forfeit:

• The Salem production facility;
• More than $1 million in cash;
• $640,000 worth of cryptocurrency and bank account funds;
• More than $400,000 worth of gold and silver;
• Jewelry and a Rolex watch; and
• Twelve vehicles, two UTV’s, and boats.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Portland Police Bureau, United States Postal Inspection, Oregon State Police, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Salem Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Kemp Strickland and Christopher Cardani, Assistant United States Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

Fatal Crash – Highway 58 – Lane County

— On Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at about 6:26 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 58 in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a white GMC Yukon, operated by David William Dickey (45) of Portland, was traveling eastbound on Highway 58 near milepost 36.5 when it left its lane for an unknown reason. The vehicle entered the westbound lane and collided head-on with a gray Volvo semi-truck hauling a 52-foot box trailer, operated by Alymbek Baikeev (40) of Forest Hills, New York.

The operator of the GMC Yukon (Dickey) was pronounced dead at the scene. The operator of the semi-truck (Baikeev) was not injured.

The highway was impacted for about three hours for the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by the Oakridge Fire Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Video Goes Viral After Thurston High School Teen Track Star Trips Then Somersaults Over Finish Line to Win 1st Place

Thurston High School athlete Brooklyn Anderson was running hurdles in a track and field championship in Eugene, and seconds away from the finish line, she tripped.

Video from the event shows Anderson hopping a hurdle and knocking it down before tripping. The track star’s tumbling reflex kicked in, prompting her to somersault twice until she got over the finish line, “sticking the landing” to first place.

Anderson told The Oregonian that she relied on her gymnastics training at the Saturday event. Anderson won the Class 5A 100 hurdles race in 14.93 seconds, the outlet reported. This event playing all over YouTube and on national tv. https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/track-field/video-shows-oregon-teen-track-star-trip-somersault-finish-line-win-1st-rcna210641

Only One Qualified Applicant for Lane County Sheriff

Lane County was hoping to appoint a new sheriff as soon as next week. County commissioners will apparently have a very small pool of applicants to choose from.

Lane County’s previous sheriff, Cliff Harrold, left halfway through his term last month to take a job at PeaceHealth. He was originally appointed to that seat and ran unopposed twice.

By law, his replacement must have been a county resident for two years, have four years of law enforcement experience, and at least two years of post-high school education, as well as meet a few other requirements.

According to county officials, only one person who applied met those criteria: Chief Deputy Carl Wilkerson, who has been serving as acting sheriff since Harrold’s departure.

Wilkerson is from Creswell and is a 2019 graduate of the FBI National Academy, according to the Chronicle newspaper. He has worked at the Lane County Sheriff’s Department since 1994.

Lane County Commissioners will publicly interview Wilkerson on June 11 at 1 p.m. and then deliberate in a public session, according to Lane County spokesperson Devon Ashbridge. If commissioners reach consensus, they’ll publicly vote on his appointment and hold a swearing-in ceremony that same day. If Wilkerson is chosen, he’ll serve through the end of 2026. —- The public can attend the interview in-person, or watch online. (SOURCE)

Lane County Human Services Releases Point In Time Count Data

Annually on the last Wednesday of January, Lane County Human Services Division, in partnership with numerous agencies and groups, conduct the annual one-night county-wide Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. As a known undercount, the PIT count is most valuable to track trends among the number of people who are experiencing homelessness in the region, including those who are unsheltered and sheltered. The PIT Count is comprised of surveys, coupled with data from the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) collected when people who are unhoused engage for assistance. The 2025 PIT Count was conducted the night of January 29, 2025.

The Point-In-Time Count (PIT) is a useful tool for understanding year-over-year trends among those who are unhoused in Lane County. PIT Counts are required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and Oregon Housing and Community Services (State of Oregon) which provides funding for outreach, shelters, housing and supportive services related to homelessness. The PIT Count data and trends are used year-round by planning boards, nonprofits, community organizations, and policy makers on local, state, and federal levels to inform their work on this issue.

The Homelessness By-Name List Each month, Lane County uses HMIS data to publish an estimate of the number of people experiencing homelessness in the county at some point during the month. This is published on the Homelessness in Lane County, OR Tableau page. https://www.lanecountyor.gov/cms/one.aspx?portalId=3585881&pageId=6095987 The criteria for this report is more expansive than what is used for the HUD PIT Count, because it looks at all services and data collected during the month rather than on one night.

Eugene City Council Public Hearing and Action – 5:30 p.m Monday June 23

Eugene’s current budget proposal would close the downtown library 2 days a week, end the city’s contract with Greenhill Humane Society, and close the Amazon Pool and Sheldon Community Center in the fall. Not to mention ending CAHOOTS and there are cuts to Eugene/Springfield Fire. It’s important to be part of the process and voice your concerns.

The Budget Committee is a standing committee that reviews the proposed operating and capital budget each biennium and makes a recommendation on the budget to the City Council for final adoption. The Committee is composed of an equal number of City Council members (8) and appointed citizen members (8). In addition to the April 30 meeting, the Committee will meet in-person at City Hall in the Council Chambers on the following dates (with virtual options available): 

• 5:30 p.m., Monday, June 23: City Council Public Hearing and Action 
• https://eugene-or.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=7053

SALARY SCHEDULE of City of EUGENE: https://www.eugene-or.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2387/City-of-Eugene—Salary-Schedule?bidId=

Willamette Valley Crisis Care

Current and former CAHOOTS workers have started a new organization: Willamette Valley Crisis Care! Check ’em out on instagram (here) and facebook (here) and share the news that they’re ready to bring back CAHOOTS as CAHOOTS 2.0.

Last Wednesday’s budget meeting was a huge success. Thanks to the community for showing up for us! Your powerful testimony and our hard work have earned us a huge nod from the city as the budget passed with a one time allocation of .5m for alternative response transition, and a recommendation for city council to direct the city manager to investigate how a cahoots-like service could be provided and allocate up to 2.2m annually which could be taken from the CSI.

What does this mean for WVCC? It means our city leadership acknowledges our value and sees this work as critical. It means we get to work with the city to measure our impact and further define our role as an essential part of public safety. And, with grit and collaboration, it means you all, our neighbors, can look forward to annual funds from the city that contribute to stability for non-forced, person-led care with funds, potentially from the Community Safety Initiative.

THIS IS COMMUNITY ACTION ACTUALIZED!!! We absolutely couldn’t have done it without you, and we are filled with gratitude, moving closer day by day to getting wheels back on the roads of our beloved Eugene!

City of Eugene’s Draft Budget Proposes The Entire Elimination of Eugene’s Animal Services Program

You may have seen that multiple news outlets have reported on the City of Eugene’s draft budget. The current draft proposes the entire elimination of Eugene’s animal services program, including their two animal welfare officers and our contract to provide animal sheltering and essential services for the residents and animals of Eugene.

This proposal is dangerous for public safety and puts vulnerable animals at risk.

We ask you to join our efforts to ensure that funding for Eugene’s animal services program and sheltering contract is restored.

Greenhill Humane Society shelters and cares for animals from all of Lane County. While the proposed budget won’t change the high-quality care that we provide for animals in our shelter or what we do for other communities, this elimination is a direct threat to public safety in Eugene.

Last year, we sheltered and cared for nearly 1,600 animals from Eugene, protecting both animals and people.By leveraging donations, volunteers, and animal welfare expertise, we have helped build this community into a compassionate, safe place for animals and people.

How you can help: encourage the City of Eugene to fund their animal services program and the sheltering contract here: http://www.eugene-or.gov/…/Send-an-Email-to-the-Budget…. Learn more here: http://www.green-hill.org/call-to-action-city-of-eugenes….

Chambers St. Seismic Bridge Retrofits – Efforts to upgrade an aging bridge have been delayed by the need to secure additional permits and research.

–The project has been under a Stop Work Order and is not performing any work besides maintaining/adjusting traffic control and pedestrian accessible routes, as necessary. Work may resume later in the month of May, if required railroad flaggers can be coordinated.

Vehicles will remain on the west side of the structure. No turns are permitted onto Roosevelt from Chambers, and Roosevelt Blvd is closed to through traffic east of Garfield St to ensure safe pedestrian crossing of Roosevelt Blvd at Chambers St while the traffic signal is shut down. A detour has been set up for Roosevelt Blvd utilizing W 2nd Ave.
 
Expect traffic delays during peak hours, alternative routes are highly recommended. Pedestrians and people rolling are encouraged to follow detours through the work zone. 

Burrito Brigade needs to expand so we may better serve the food challenged and the best option is to buy our own building.

Please help us reach our goal for a permanent home. https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse…

Waste To Taste  Got an Extra Can or Two? Let’s Fill the Little Free Pantries Together!

Our Little Free Pantries are running low—and for some neighbors, these are their only source of food right now.

If you’ve got: A few extra cans A box of pasta Unopened hygiene items Kid-friendly snacks…you can make someone’s day a little easier. Just place your donation directly into any Burrito Brigade Little Free Pantry around town. No sign-up, no questions—just community caring for community. Find a pantry near you: BurritoBrigade.org/pantriesIt’s a simple act with a big impact.Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org

Road Closure: Old Mill Road (Office Covered Bridge)

Reason for closure: Mountain Bike Oregon event

Road name: Old Mill Road

Location: Westfir

Closure location: Office Covered Bridge

Dates and times: Thursday, June 26, at 12:00 p.m. through Sunday, June 29, at 4:00 p.m.

Alternate routes: None.

Celebrating 20 years as Oregon’s Favorite Annual Mountain Bike Camp!

Get hyped for Mountain Bike Oregon, the all-inclusive three-day mountain biking festival featuring Oakridge’s best singletrack.

Come ride in the mountain bike capital of the Pacific Northwest, one of six IMBA Gold Level trail center sites.

MBO includes 3 days of riding sweet & technical singletrack, onsite camping & bike vendors, evenings in the Hydro Flask beverage garden with free Deschutes Brewery & Oakshire beer, 2 Towns cider, wine, & Humm Kombucha & opportunities to demo the industry’s best mountain bikes also for free! MORE INFO: https://www.mtboregon.com/

SPRING INTO ACTION: DONATE TO OPERATION REFILL THE STOCKPILE

Operation Fill the Stockpile at First Christian Church- where community members can drop off donations and enjoy refreshments.

Donations will be accepted Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to 2 PM at First Christian Church. Items can also be purchased from the Amazon Wish List and shipped directly to 1166 Oak St., Eugene, OR 97401.

Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with First Christian Church, is calling on the community to Spring into Action by donating essential items for those experiencing homelessness. Operation Fill the Stockpile is an effort to collect much-needed clothing and survival gear to help our unhoused neighbors stay safe and warm during the colder months, as well as in the warmer months ahead.

“Spring is a time when many people clean out their homes and refresh their spaces. Instead of discarding unwanted items, consider giving them a second life by donating to those in need,” said Amy Wilson, Lane County Human Services Program Coordinator. “With unpredictable weather this time of year, these donations can be the difference between safety and hardship for those without shelter. Your generosity can make a life-saving difference for someone facing the elements.”

Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share — Donated items will be distributed to local homeless outreach providers who directly support unsheltered individuals.

Everyone Village in Eugene accepts cans and bottles with no limit

Typically, BottleDrop redemption centers accept a daily maximum of 350 containers per person, but Everyone Village can accept as many as you have, whether it’s 50 cans or 5,000 cans.

Everyone Village, located at 3825 Janisse St., accepts unlimited cans and bottles three days a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. They will be adding an additional day to the schedule in April.

REEL on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1136451074555235 FOLLOW: https://www.facebook.com/everyonevillage WEBSITE: https://everyonevillage.org

First Sundays – Native American Arts & Crafts Makers

First Sundays – Native American Arts & Crafts Makers 

1st Sundays of the month 10am to 4pm

Farmers Market Pavilion 85 E. 8th Ave, Downtown Eugene

Free & open to the public

Authentically made Native American arts & crafts makes this event unique. 

We transform the Pavilion into an event of Native American & Indigenous cultural sharing and a gallery of Fine Art, beadwork, Navajo made jewelry, crafts, beautiful wood carvings, and more.

Featuring: Native American Cultural Performance at 1pm — www.naacm.org

Lane County Government — Part of being prepared for an emergency is knowing how you will receive emergency alerts and life safety information. Lane County uses several tools to alert residents.

Watch the video below to learn more about those tools and decide which ones you will rely on in the event of an emergency or disaster. https://vimeo.com/565852770 Sign up to receive Lane Alerts emergency alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org#NationalPreparednessMonth

“When It Hits The Fan”: Podcast by Lane County Emergency Management

This month on Lane County Emergency Management’s 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼𝑡 𝐻𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑛, Emergency Manager Tiffany Brown shares essential tips on what to do in an emergency.

Get ready, stay informed, and make sure you’re prepared for anything! Listen now: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube

About Lane County Emergency Management – Lane County Emergency Management is committed to preparing the community for emergencies and disasters through education, planning, and response coordination. Listen at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan. 

White Bird Clinic – · Crisis intervention is a 24/7 need in our community, and CAHOOTS, as part of White Bird Crisis Intervention programs, responds.

White Bird CAHOOTS Springfield Coverage: 11 am – 11 pm, 7 days a week (541-726-3714)

Whole Community News Report on CAHOOTS:

Since December of 2023, Eugene lost the University District hospital and the Hourglass Crisis Center, and as of last week, CAHOOTS. These were no-barrier treatment access points for our most vulnerable neighbors to receive care when experiencing a mental health crisis. READ MORE: https://wholecommunity.news/2025/04/20/public-comments-ask-city-not-to-lose-cahoots-too/

Contact for Services — Phone: CAHOOTS is dispatched within the Springfield urban growth boundary through the non-emergency number, 541-726-3714.

Starting in the new year, White Bird Dental Clinic will offer more walk-in clinic times. Currently, we offer walk-in clinics at 1415 Pearl St. every Monday and Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. In January, we will also add every other Friday at 7:30 a.m. Find more information at whitebirdclinic.org/dental

Youth Empowerment Programs, City of Eugene

 Registration open for our FREE programs.
 Some programs are drop-in, so no registration is required—just show up and get involved!

For more information and links to register, visit our website: https://www.eugene-or.gov/4888/Youth-Empowerment-Program

Families: Need help with groceries this summer?

The Oregon Summer EBT (electronic benefit transfer) program helps families buy food for their school-aged children when school is out. Each summer, eligible families will get one yearly payment of $120 to buy groceries.

Learn who is automatically eligible and who needs to apply at sebt.oregon.gov. Questions? Please contact the Summer EBT Call Center at 1-833-673-7328 or summerebtinfo@odhs.oregon.gov.

Free Camping, Day-Use Parking & Activities On State Parks Day June 7 

—Every year Oregon State Parks begins the busier season with a small thank you to its visitors — free camping and day-use parking on State Parks Day.

State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 to thank Oregonians for their long-standing support of the state park system. It falls on the first Saturday of June, which is June 7 this year.

“We are honored to steward and share these places with Oregonians and all our visitors. We appreciate their commitment to preserving and maintaining Oregon’s special places. We would not have the park system that we have today without their support,” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will waive day-use parking fees at the 25 parks that charge them and camping fees for all tent, RV and horse campsites on June 7. State Parks Day also includes free events at many state parks.

Park staff have worked hard over the last few months getting parks ready for the busier season and State Parks Day. The list of projects includes everything from clearing storm damage, with as many as 180 downed trees near Nehalem, to moving mountains of muck or sand to re-open camp loops. Now parks are ready to welcome visitors for State Parks Day and the busier season.

State Parks Day Events

• The Cove Palisades will host a free festival that celebrates the diverse history, food and culture of Central Oregon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Festival of the Land, includes Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, kids’ games and activities, petting zoo, educational displays, mini farmers market and more.
• L.L. Stub Stewart will host a star party in partnership with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers at 9:30 p.m. in the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Visit OMSI’s website on the day of the party for possible weather-related cancellations: https://omsi.edu/whats-on/
• Carl G. Washburne will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from noon to 1 p.m.
• Spring Valley Access will host a trail work party from 9 a.m. to noon. The event includes clearing brush, raking debris and picking up trash.
• Tryon Creek State Natural Area invites visitors to explore its Interpretive Nature Center, navigate its extensive trail system and attend a guided hike.
• Prineville Reservoir will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. near the Dark Sky Observatory.
• Silver Falls will host an exhibit about the emerald ash borer (EAB) and its role as a threat to Oregon’s ash trees 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oregon State Parks and Oregon Department of Forestry staff will be on hand to share information about the importance of ash trees and this destructive invasive beetle.
• Collier: will offer a guided tour through Collier Logging Museum 11 a.m. to noon so visitors can learn about old logging camps and what machines they used to make life easier.
• Fort Stevens will host disc golf lessons 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fort Stevens State Park-Historic Area Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course.
• Harris Beach we have a multi-park scavenger hunt where visitors can seek natural formations, unique flora and historical locations. Pick up scavenger hunt cards at Harris Beach registration booth or from ranger or host at Alred Loeb.

For a list of events, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/

For camping availability, please check oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or visit first-come-first served sites: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=reserve.first-come

—– State Parks Day began in 1998 to celebrate the support of visitors around the state. It’s one of three days a year that Oregon State Parks waives the day-use parking fees. Other days include Green Friday the day after Thanksgiving and First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day.

FREE Fishin Weekend – Everyone is permitted to fish, clam, and crab without charge in Oregon on Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8, 2025.

No fishing or shellfish licenses or tags (including a Combined Angling Tag, Columbia River Basin Endorsement, or Two-Rod Validation) are necessary on these dates. Both residents and nonresidents of Oregon can fish at no cost. Oregon State Parks will also provide free parking and camping on Saturday, June 7.

All other fishing regulations remain in effect, including closures, bag limits, and size restrictions. Please refer to the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for detailed regulations. It is advisable to check MyODFW.com for any in-season regulation updates, particularly concerning salmon and steelhead fishing.

The Recreation Report is updated weekly and highlights the best fishing opportunities for the upcoming week. Anticipate a significant stocking of rainbow trout in Oregon’s ponds and lakes for the weekend; consult the trout stocking schedule for further details and stocking locations.

Oregon Army National Guard to Host Norwegian Foot March Open to Public (Photo)
Oregon Military Department – 06/05/25 8:41 AM250308-Z-ZJ128-1001

MEDFORD, Ore. – The Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment will host a Norwegian Foot March on June 8, 2025, open to both military personnel and civilians seeking to test their endurance limits.

The event begins at 4 a.m. at U.S. Cellular Field in Medford, with participants stepping off at 5 a.m. for the challenging 18.6-mile (30-kilometer) route. Participants striving for official completion and badge qualification must carry a 24-pound rucksack or backpack and complete the march within age-specific time standards ranging from 4 hours, 30 minutes to 6 hours. Walking the route and cheering on participants is also encouraged for community members who want to be part of the experience.

“This is a unique opportunity for civilians to earn a badge that’s typically reserved for military personnel,” said 1st Lt. Ian Namu, who led the unit’s preparatory training. “We’re excited to share this challenge with our community.”

The Norwegian Foot March originated in 1915 as a test of marching endurance for soldiers in the Norwegian military. The strategic goal was to move large units of troops over great distances swiftly while maintaining combat readiness. Today, the event stimulates interest in long-distance marching among both military and civilian participants.
Participants who complete the route within time standards while wearing duty uniform and boots can earn the Norwegian Foot March Badge. The badge comes in bronze, silver and gold levels based on the number of times completed.

The Oregon National Guard unit has been preparing for the event through training marches, including a 6-mile ruck march conducted in March along Medford’s Bear Creek Greenway under the leadership of 1st Lt. Ian Namu.

Registration is available by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.

Tycko & Zavareei LLP Files Class Action Lawsuit Against Grocery Outlet for Deceptive Pricing Practices in Oregon

ycko & Zavareei LLP, in partnership with Tim Quenelle PC and Oregon Consumer Justice Law, has filed a class action lawsuit in the Circuit Court of Multnomah County on behalf of Oregon consumers who were misled by Grocery Outlet’s deceptive pricing practices. The lawsuit alleges that Grocery Outlet and its affiliated operators across Oregon systematically used fictitious “elsewhere” prices to create the illusion of savings, in violation of Oregon’s Unlawful Trade Practices Act (UTPA).

The complaint, brought on behalf of named plaintiffs Schearon Stewart, John Franz, and Roger Sullivan, details how Grocery Outlet advertised inflated or fabricated reference prices without identifying the source of those comparisons, as required by Oregon law. These misleading practices, the suit alleges, caused consumers to believe they were receiving significant discounts when, in many cases, they were paying the same or more than at other local retailers.

“This case is about fairness and transparency,” said F. Peter Silva II, attorney at Tycko & Zavareei LLP. “Oregon law is clear: if you advertise a discount, you must be honest about where that comparison comes from. Grocery Outlet’s use of vague and unverifiable ‘elsewhere’ prices deprived consumers of the ability to make informed purchasing decisions and unfairly competed with other businesses.”

The lawsuit seeks injunctive and equitable relief to stop the unlawful conduct and hold Grocery Outlet accountable. Plaintiffs intend to amend the complaint to seek monetary damages on behalf of the class after the statutory notice period under ORCP 32 has expired.

The class includes all Oregon residents who, within the past year, purchased grocery items from any Grocery Outlet location in Oregon that were advertised using fictitious reference prices. The complaint estimates that the class may include over 100,000 consumers.

Plaintiffs are represented by Hassan Zavareei, F. Peter Silva II, and Allison Parr of the public interest firm of Tycko & Zavareei LLP, Tim Quenelle of Tim Quenelle PC, and Mathew Kirkpatrick and Robert Le of Oregon Consumer Justice Law.  This case reflects the firms’ ongoing commitment to protecting consumers from deceptive and unfair business practices.

The case is Stewart, et al., v. 2SGR Ventures, LLC, et al, MCC# 25CV33779 in the Circuit Court of the State of Oregon in and for the County of Multnomah. — https://www.tzlegal.com/wp-content/plugins/pdfjs-viewer-shortcode/pdfjs/web/viewer.php?file=https://www.tzlegal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grocery-Outlet-Complaint-6.2.2025.pdf&attachment_id=6312&dButton=true&pButton=true&oButton=false&sButton=true&pagemode=none&_wpnonce=4801ad958f (SOURCE)

The inaugural descent expedition of the Klamath River, organized by young members of the Tribes residing along the river, is set to commence on Thursday, June 12.

Participants in the Ríos to Rivers Paddle Tribal Waters Program will spearhead the first-ever 30-day journey from the source to the sea of the newly undammed Klamath River. An opening celebration to commemorate the start of this month-long expedition, covering over 310 miles, will take place on June 12 at the headwaters of the Wood River, and attendance will be by invitation only.

From this initial location, the kayakers will navigate across Upper Klamath Lake, portage around the Link River Dam, and traverse Lake Ewauna to reach the Klamath River.

Throughout the subsequent 30 days, the kayakers will be intermittently joined by participants from the international Ríos to Rivers programs, including Kayakimün (Chile) and the Amazonian Rivers Initiative (Bolivia), as well as other individuals from various parts of the globe, symbolizing global solidarity.

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Missing 12-Year-Old Eagle Point Girl, Believed to be in Humboldt County

EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is investigating a missing 12-year-old girl from the Eagle Point area. Taylor Pool is described as a 12-year-old girl with fair skin, 5’2” tall, weighing 100 lbs. She has reddish brown hair with hazel eyes. Locally, she was last seen May 15 in the Rogue River Drive area of Eagle Point. She left voluntarily and was dropped off in McKinleyville, California.

Investigators believe she is still in the McKinleyville area but is also known to frequent Crescent City, Arcata, and Loleta. Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is assisting with the search. If you have any information about Taylor’s whereabouts call the JCSO Tip Line at (541) 774-8333 or the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 268-2539.

Minimum and Maximum Weekly Benefit Amounts to Increase for New Unemployment Insurance and Paid Leave Oregon Claims  

The Oregon Employment Department announced today the annual adjustment to the minimum and maximum weekly benefit amounts (WBAs) for both regular Unemployment Insurance and Paid Leave Oregon claims.   

Each year, under Oregon law (ORS 657.150(4) and ORS 657B.050), the Employment Department recalculates these benefit amounts based on the state average weekly wage, which reflects the average wages of all employees across Oregon. The 2025 state average weekly wage is $1,363.80, up 4.3 percent from $1,307.17 in 2024.  

 The minimum and maximum WBAs change from:  

Program	Minimum WBA	Maximum WBA
Unemployment Insurance	$196 → $204 per week	$836 → $872 per week
Paid Leave Oregon	$65.36 → $68.19 per week	$1,568.60 → $1,636.56 per week

The 2025 minimum and maximum WBAs will affect: 

• New Unemployment Insurance claims filed on or after June 29, 2025; and 

• Paid Leave Oregon claims with benefit years that begin on or after July 6, 2025. 

Unemployment Insurance 

• For Unemployment Insurance, the minimum WBA is 15% and the maximum is 64% of the state average weekly wage, rounded down to the nearest dollar.  

• A claimant’s weekly benefit amount is usually 1.25% of what they earned during their “base period,” which is roughly the first 12 of the 15 months before the date they filed their claim. 

• New claims filed before June 29, 2025, will be subject to the 2024 minimum and maximum WBAs for the duration of the claim. 

Paid Leave Oregon 

• For Paid Leave Oregon, weekly benefit amounts are based on a formula that compares a worker’s average weekly wage to the state average weekly wage. If a worker earns 65% or less of the state average, they receive benefits equal to 100% of their wages. Those earning more than 65% receive a portion of their wages. 

• Claimants whose Paid Leave Oregon benefit year begins before July 6, 2025, will be subject to the 2024 minimum and maximum WBAs for the duration of their benefit year.  

Paid Leave Oregon claimants can estimate their weekly benefit using the Paid Leave benefits calculator. More information on Unemployment Insurance benefits is available here. 

###  The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov. 

U.S. Department of Labor terminates four federal Unemployment Insurance grants in Oregon 

The U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) has terminated four federal Unemployment Insurance grants to the Oregon Employment Department.  

OED was notified of the immediate termination of the following grants on May 22, purportedly because each “no longer effectuates the Department of Labor’s priorities for grant funding.”  

• Unemployment Insurance (UI) Navigator Grant – A $3 million grant awarded in 2022 that funded partnerships with three community-based organizations to help workers from historically underserved communities learn about, apply for, and, if eligible, receive UI benefits. This grant was set to expire on June 14, 2025. 

• Equitable Access to Unemployment Insurance (EAUI) Grant – A $4.5 million grant in 2022 aimed at removing barriers and improving access to UI benefits for historically underserved communities through outreach, improved tools, and by developing new resources. This grant was set to expire on June 30, 2025. 

• Unemployment Insurance Integrity Grant – A $1.7 million grant awarded in 2023 to boost overpayment recovery by funding eight limited duration positions in the Contributions & Recovery Division.  

• Unemployment Insurance Tiger Team Grant – This $3 million grant funded many projects, most of which are already completed. However, approximately $370,000 was awarded in 2023 to hire outside experts to help ensure OED’s most commonly used letters were easy to understand. Work on this portion of the grant had not started at the time of termination.  

OED is actively assessing the impact of these federal termination notices, in close partnership with Governor Kotek and legal counsel. 

Because the Equitable Access and Navigator grants were staffed through job rotations, OED does not anticipate that terminating the grants a few weeks early will significantly impact customers.  

Terminating the Integrity Grant has resulted in the elimination of seven limited duration positions in Contributions & Recovery, which will hamper OED’s efforts to recover money from customers who were not eligible for all of the benefits they received.  

“We are extremely proud of the work we have already completed as a result of these grants, including our efforts to make sure all Oregonians have access to unemployment insurance benefits” said OED Director David Gerstenfeld. “We are equally disappointed that we will have fewer resources to support our ongoing work in overpayment recovery and improving the customer experience, which will always be high priorities for OED.”  

### The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov. 

Oregonians continue to have at least five health insurance companies to choose from in every Oregon county as companies file 2026 health insurance rate requests for individual and small group markets

Oregon health insurers have submitted proposed 2026 rates for individual and small group plans, launching a months-long review process that includes public input and meetings.  

Five insurers will again offer plans statewide (Moda, Bridgespan, PacificSource, Providence, and Regence), and Kaiser is offering insurance in 11 counties, giving six options to choose from in various areas around the state.

In the individual market, six companies submitted rate change requests ranging from an average increase of 3.9 percent (PacificSource) to 12.9 percent (Kaiser), for a weighted average increase of 9.7 percent. That average increase is slightly higher than last year’s requested weighted average increase of 9.3 percent.

In the small group market, eight companies submitted rate change requests ranging from an average increase of 5.1 percent (PacificSource) to 21.5 percent (Providence), for a weighted average increase of 11.5 percent, which is lower than last year’s 12.3 percent requested average increase.

The Oregon Reinsurance Program continues to help stabilize the market and lower rates. Reinsurance lowered rates by at least 6 percent for the eighth straight year. In fact, this year the reinsurance program resulted in a 9.2 percent average lower premium.

The rate filings also reference uncertainty and other changes for some insurers. For example, two insurers – UnitedHealthcare Inc. and UnitedHealthcare of Oregon – include a 2.7 percent impact due to prescription drug tariffs. Also, Regence filed a separate request to consider up to an additional $25 per member per month increase as part of its rate filing based on possible Oregon legislative changes. That request, which is subject to the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation’s (DFR) approval, is not included in the attached chart of rate change requests.

DFR, which approves all rate request changes, will also inquire further with insurers throughout the process about ongoing uncertainty at the federal level, including further tariffing of prescription drugs and medical equipment, key changes in laws and subsidies, and additional cost drivers that may be felt by consumers.

See the attached chart for the full list of rate change requests.

“Oregon’s insurance market continues to grow with Kaiser adding even more counties than last year and all other counties still having five carriers offering plans,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner and Department of Consumer and Business Services Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “The economy, uncertainty caused by federal actions, and increased spending in some areas are driving prices higher than last year. Oregonians still have a lot of options to choose from and the Oregon Reinsurance Program continues to allow Oregonians to find reasonable rates.”

Virtual public meetings about the 2026 requested health insurance rates will be held Friday, June 20, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Friday, July 18, from noon to 3 p.m. A web address to watch the public meetings will be posted at oregonhealthrates.org. At the meetings, each insurance company will provide a brief presentation about its rate increase requests, answer questions from DFR employees, and hear public comment from Oregonians. The public also can comment on the proposed rates through June 20 at oregonhealthrates.org.

“We look forward to a thorough and transparent process putting these rate requests through a rigorous public review, and we encourage the public to join the virtual public meetings and provide feedback on their health insurance plans,” Stolfi said. “This public process not only helps keep insurance companies accountable, but it gives Oregonians the opportunity be part of the process.”

The requested rates are for plans that comply with the Affordable Care Act for small businesses and individuals who buy their own coverage rather than getting it through an employer.

Over the next two months, DFR will analyze the requested rates to ensure they adequately cover Oregonians’ health care costs. DFR must review and approve rates before they are charged to policyholders.

In addition to reviewing the rate filings to determine if the rate changes are justified, DFR continues to monitor the ongoing federal policy and financing uncertainties to evaluate their effect on consumers. For example, expanded advance premium tax credits, which help subsidize premiums for some consumers and were part of COVID funding packages, expire at the end of 2025. While the expiration of these credits do not affect the rates under review, these changes would result in higher consumer costs. DFR will continue to keep consumers informed about these impacts during the rate review process.

Preliminary decisions are expected to be announced in July, and final decisions will be made in August after the public meetings and comment period ends.

### About DCBS: The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit www.dcbs.oregon.gov and dfr.oregon.gov.

BLM timber sales to offer up to 8.5 million board feet in western Oregon

The Bureau of Land Management will offer up to 8.5 million board feet of timber across 380 public acres for sale on June 26, 2025. Timber produced from these sales will provide critical supplies for construction and other industries, and support jobs across western Oregon economies.

The Salt Creek salvage sale will offer salvage logging on 110 acres, producing an estimated 2.2 million board feet. The Rotors Up timber sale will offer commercial thinning on 16 acres, selection harvest on 252 acres, and right of way clearing on two acres, producing an estimated 6.3 million board feet of timber.

“The BLM is proud to offer these timber sales,” said BLM Medford District Manager Elizabeth Burghard. “Our timber sales provide building materials and jobs that improve life in local communities, while also improving the health of local forests.

”In western Oregon, the BLM manages 2.4 million acres of some of the most productive forests in the world, and is committed to supplying a reliable, secure, and resilient domestic supply of timber. BLM forestry supports economic security, reduces risks from wildfire, conserves fish and wildlife habitat, and decreases costs of energy production. Local communities rely on jobs that come from BLM forests, and timber from public land feeds local industry.

Each year, the BLM Oregon-Washington forestry program sales support approximately 2,000 local jobs and generate more than $1 billion for local economies. Revenue from timber sold on O&C lands is shared between the U.S. Treasury and 18 western Oregon counties. This funding provides local communities with the means to construct new county buildings; develop fairgrounds and museums; support libraries, schools, and jails; and build flood-control dams and reservoirs.

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. 

In a significant victory for unions in Oregon, the state has moved one substantial step closer to offering unemployment benefits to workers on strike as of Wednesday.

The House of Representatives cast a vote of 33 to 23 in favor of authorizing these unemployment payments following extensive and intense discussions. Democrat John Lively from Springfield aligned with all present House Republicans in voting against the measure, which enabled the bill to exceed the 31 votes required for passage.

Senate Bill 916, which eliminates the existing prohibition on striking workers receiving unemployment benefits in Oregon, was passed by the Senate in March with a vote of 16-12. This chamber will need to re-evaluate the measure due to amendments made by House lawmakers. Should the Senate approve it once more, the bill will be sent to Governor Tina Kotek for her signature.

This vote represents a setback for municipalities, counties, and school districts that vigorously opposed the legislation.

The Oregon Department of Transportation received eight grants from the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief Program, totaling more than $83 million.

The grants will reimburse the state for money spent on work that helped rehabilitate road and other infrastructure damaged by natural disasters.

The events that made the work necessary date back as far as 2017, and include floods, ice storms, wildfire and landslides.

A joint press release from Oregon’s Democratic Congressional delegation identified the projects and causes as follows:

• $30,735,975 to repair damage from the 2020 Labor Day fires.
• $23,210,956 for repairs related to a severe winter storm that hit Western Oregon, causing landslides that blocked Interstate 84 and damaged Highway 101.
• $20,000,000 for work relating to a January 2024 ice storm.
• $3,164,000 for damage done by landslides related to a series of winter storms spanning December 2021 to January 2022. Among the roadways damaged by the storms were  I-84, OR 138, and OR 30.
• $2,765,399 for road and utility repairs and emergency care needs in southwestern and western Oregon from severe storms in February 2019.
• $2,500,000 for work done in five counties to recover from severe storms in December 2023.
• $539,915 for wildfire recovery in 12 counties after the 2017 fire season.
• $300,000 for repairs to US 34, I-84 and HWY 101 after storms brought by the January 2021 atmospheric river.

Oregon was among the top recipient states for Emergency Program Fund grants this year, coming behind North Carolina ($403 million), Tennessee ($194 million) and California ($172 million).

Oregon legislators consider the possibility of allowing a nuclear reactor in Umatilla County

House Bill 2410 in the 2025 Oregon Legislature would allow the state Energy Facility Siting Council to grant a site certificate for a small modular nuclear reactor demonstration project in Umatilla County

In 1980, Oregon voters approved Measure 7, a statewide ban on building new nuclear reactors. But House Bill 2410 would exempt Umatilla County from the ban and allow local voters to decide on building a small modular reactor.

Kelly Campbell, policy director of the environmental advocacy group Columbia Riverkeeper, said what the state actually needs is more clean energy alternatives.

“This is a new program that costs new money that we don’t have,” Campbell contended. “Especially with this kind of budget forecast, the idea of wasting money on a ‘pie in the sky’ nuclear fantasy when really, we need more solar, more wind, more battery storage, more energy efficiency.”

On Monday environmental groups, tribal leaders and northeast Oregon community groups held a No Nuclear Day of Action, including meetings with state legislators.

Small modular reactors are built in factories then shipped to sites. They typically produce 300 megawatts or fewer of electricity per unit. Industry experts cited their lower cost over existing gigawatt-scale reactors. But a 2022 study found the units produce a greater volume of waste, which is also more reactive.

The bill would allow high-level radioactive waste to be stored on site so long as the federal operating license is in force. It does not resolve the issue of permanent storage. Campbell noted Umatilla County is already one of the most polluted places in the state.

“It is somewhat of a sacrifice zone,” Campbell stressed. “It’s seen as a place that you could do things like this.
It’s a place where people have nitrates in their drinking water, way over the EPA limits. It’s a place where things get dumped.”

Measure 7 forbids new nuclear reactors until two conditions are met: a national waste repository has been built and Oregon voters statewide approve a new nuclear plant site certificate.

A report from an independent organization detailed the challenges faced by ODOT as legislators strive to pass a transportation package.

The Oregon Department of Transportation is grappling with significant staff turnover, outdated financial software, budget overruns, and delays that have diminished trust among elected officials. This information comes from an evaluation of the department’s projects and organizational framework that has reached the desks of lawmakers on the Joint Committee on Transportation Reinvestment this week. The committee is considering the most effective ways to finance ODOT, possibly through new taxes and fees, as the agency seeks substantial funds to address a budget shortfall.

Concurrently, it is under scrutiny for its management of increasingly costly megaprojects. Concerns regarding such projects were a primary factor in lawmakers hiring external transportation specialists to evaluate how ODOT oversees its personnel, finances, and projects.

The assessment depicts an agency facing a range of systemic issues, including a lack of personnel and a bureaucratic maze that has led to problems such as “communication barriers” and “workflow bottlenecks and accountability challenges.” For instance, the department’s contract management procedures are described as “cumbersome and inefficient,” according to the review.

At times, it can take as long as 18 months from the moment the agency awards a contract to when it notifies that a project can commence.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking a volunteer to serve a three-year term as the Equestrian Representative on the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants Advisory Committee starting in 2026.

The ten-member committee evaluates grant proposals for statewide trail projects. The committee meets once or twice a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state.

The time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating 25 to 40 grant applications per year. Committee members serve three-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term.

Ideal candidates representing the interest of equestrian trail users can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Land management
• Recreation planning
• Trail planning or design
• Recreation related volunteerism, or
• A trail enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate statewide project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates may also demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational trail needs, other broad recreational issues and the importance of providing equitable, inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities.

Those interested in serving must submit an RTP advisory committee interest form by June 30, 2025. The form is available online and includes more detailed information about serving on the committee: https://form.jotform.com/232364818278162

The competitive grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and administered by OPRD. Grants are awarded to non-profits and government entities for motorized and non-motorized trail projects, including building new trails, improving existing trails and developing or improving trail facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator, at Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-856-6316.

Kyron Horman disappearance investigation continues 15 years later as police digitize case files

Law enforcement is scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence to be digitized, 15 years after Kyron’s disappearance.

As the 15th anniversary of Kyron Horman’s disappearance approaches, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) says its investigation into his disappearance remains ongoing, announcing that case files will be digitized. 

The MCSO and Gresham Police detectives are scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence to be digitized. When the case is digitized, the file will be reexamined by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, laying out the foundation “for a fresh and comprehensive review of the entire investigation,” according to MCSO. 

MCSO detectives in the coming months will meet with Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez and his team to further evaluate.

Kyron was last seen on the morning of June 4, 2010, at a science fair at Skyline Elementary School in Portland. 

A $50,000 reward remains available for information leading to the resolution of Kyron’s disappearance. Anyone with information is asked to call MCSO’s tipline at 503-988-0560, email tips@mcso.us or reach out to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) via 1-800-THE-LOST or online at the NCMEC CyberTipLine. (SOURCE)

OHA seeks your help to make health care more affordable

New committees, public hearing provide opportunities to brainstorm solutions

SALEM, Ore. – Are you concerned about paying for a health emergency or routine care? Do you have an idea that could make health care more affordable? Oregon Health Authority (OHA) wants to hear from you.

“Everyone deserves quality health care, but growing medical costs make that increasingly challenging,” said Antonio Germann, M.D., a family physician who is vice-chair of the Oregon Health Policy Board, a citizen-led body that oversees OHA. “We need to tackle this complex issue to ensure our future health, and we’re inviting people to share their personal experiences and expertise with us to help us address it.”

About 83% of Oregon adults worry about being able to afford health care in the future, and 43% have struggled to pay their medical bills, according to a 2024 survey. Concerning statistics like this prompted OHA to make strengthening affordable health care for all a pillar in its strategic plan. It also led the Oregon Health Policy Board to seek the public’s help in identifying a broad range of solutions by serving on committees and participating in a June 10 public hearing.

Oregonians are invited to submit applications to serve on two new committees focused on health care affordability. May 16 is the extended deadline to apply for both committees. Applications and more information are available on the Committee on Health Care Affordability and Industry Advisory Committee webpages. Once their members are chosen, the committees plan to meet beginning this summer. Additional details are below.

The Committee on Health Care Affordability, also simply called the Affordability Committee, is seeking diverse voices. Its members may include people who receive health care, employers that purchase insurance, health economists and health policy experts.

The Affordability Committee will be supported by the Industry Advisory Committee, which also aims to include a variety of perspectives, ranging from health insurers to providers, hospitals and health industry leaders. Health care professionals in small or independent practices, and those who specialize in primary care, behavioral health, oral health or pediatrics are particularly encouraged to apply to the industry committee.

Comment at public forum — Both committees will build on the work of OHA’s Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target program, which seeks to limit Oregon’s health care cost increases to 3.4% per person annually. Between 2021 and 2022, the state’s health care spending grew by 3.6%, slightly more than the target.

Every year, the Health Care Cost Growth Target program holds a legislatively required public hearing to discuss recent trends in health care spending and highlight what’s driving health care cost growth. The 2025 public hearing will specifically explore behavioral health and pharmacy spending trends and will also focus on policy ideas to improve health care affordability. Information and potential solutions discussed at the event will help inform the new committees’ future work. People are also encouraged to share their personal stories and ideas about health care affordability during the hearing. See below for details on how to participate.

What: Health Care Cost Growth Public Hearing

When: 10 a.m.-Noon PT Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Details: Hybrid virtual and in-person meeting to discuss health care costs in Oregon, including recent trends, their causes and ideas for slowing cost growth.

Get involved: Consumers, clinicians and businesses are invited to share their concerns about and experiences with health care costs. Email written testimony or sign up to provide spoken comment at e.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;”>HealthCare.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov.

Webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP/Pages/cost-growth-target-public-hearings.aspx

Zoom meeting: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1610883159?pwd=PAveuaEZgsT4KLXVPXm8WduVGatWCa.1

Meeting ID: 161 088 3159 — Passcode: 371696 — One tap mobile: +16692545252,1610883159# US (San Jose)​

In-person meeting: Salem, Oregon (details will be added to Oregon Health Policy Board meeting webpage)

Summer EBT for school-aged children returns for second year

Need to know:

• Oregon Summer EBT is a federal benefits program to help families buy food for their school-aged children during the summer.
• Oregon expects to provide up to 370,000 school-aged children with around $40 million in Summer EBT food benefits this year.
• Each eligible child receives a one-time payment of $120 in food benefits.
• About 341,500 eligible children received Summer EBT automatically on May 22, 2025 but some families need to apply.

(Salem, OR) – Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) is a food benefits program that helps shrink the hunger gap when children are on summer break and don’t have easy access to healthy meals at school. Summer EBT provides $120 per eligible child to buy food. 

This is the second year of Oregon’s Summer EBT program. On May 22, 2025, about 336,000 children got the benefit on an Oregon EBT card. Families should check their EBT card balance at www.ebtedge.com to confirm receipt.

Families who didn’t automatically get Summer EBT on May 22, 2025 should check program requirements before applying. Families can check requirements at sebt.oregon.gov or by contacting the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-673-7328. The Call Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., PDT. Apply online in English and Spanish or with a paper application in multiple languages at sebt.oregon.gov. 

“When school doors close for the summer, the need for regular, healthy meals doesn’t disappear. Last year, the summer EBT program bridged a critical gap for thousands of Oregon families, helping to replace those essential 10 meals per child, per week, that they receive when school is in session,” said Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). “We are proud to continue this partnership with ODHS to not only feed children, but to nurture their potential during crucial developmental months. Our continued commitment ensures that summer can be a season of growth and opportunity for all children, regardless of their economic circumstances.”

In 2024, about 362,000 children participated and received $43 million in Summer EBT food benefits their families spent in their local grocery stores, farmers markets, and other places.

“Summer EBT is one more way we can prevent kids from going hungry when school is out. Summer EBT is an evidence-based program proven to reduce child hunger and support healthier diets,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director. “Child hunger can have lasting impacts on health and academic achievement. Getting every eligible child connected to Summer EBT will help Oregon’s children thrive year-round and as they grow up.”

Who is eligible for Summer EBT food benefits? Families can find details about Summer EBT at sebt.oregon.gov. 

Your school-age child may be automatically eligible if:

• Your family received Summer EBT benefits through an approved application in 2024.
• Your family gets SNAP, TANF or Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) and meets income rules.
• Your child gets free or reduced-price school meals and meets income rules.
• Your child is in foster care, in migrant education, in a qualified Head Start, experiencing homelessness, or part of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).

Children who are automatically eligible received Summer EBT on May 22, 2025.

Your school-age child may be eligible by application if:

• Your family meets the federal income requirements for free or reduced-price meals at school, and
• Your child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Families must apply by Sept. 3, 2025.

Receiving Summer EBT does not impact participation in other summer meal programs.

Summer EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test and are available to children regardless of immigration status. 

How will families receive Summer EBT food benefits?

The benefits will be placed on an Oregon EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and more.

Families that need a new card should call 855-328-6715, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT).

Families that think their children may be eligible and didn’t get benefits on May 22 must apply by September 3. If approved, they will receive an Oregon EBT card by mail.

Stolen Summer EBT benefits can’t be replaced.

You can protect your Oregon EBT card and benefits from electronic theft by following a few simple tips.

Where can families get more information? To learn more, or to apply, visit sebt.oregon.gov.

Call the Oregon Summer EBT Call Center at 1-833-673-7328 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT) on weekdays. All relay calls accepted.

More about Summer EBT – Summer EBT became a permanent program for states and certain Indian Tribal Organizations through the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. Most states began providing Summer EBT in June 2024. Oregon’s participation was made possible through an investment from the Oregon State Legislature of $12 million. That investment will draw $83 million in federal funding to Oregon, mostly in the form of food benefits families will spend in their communities. 

Additional resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Find summer meal sites:  https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or https://www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: https://www.caporegon.org/find-help

Father’s Day Train Rides on June 14th

Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate Dad this year? Climb aboard for a train ride that promises fun for the whole family! On Saturday, June 14th, Oregon Rail Heritage Center is rolling out a special pre-Father’s Day celebration.

Trains will depart at 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM. Each ride lasts approximately 45 minutes and takes passengers on a round-trip journey down to Oaks Park and back along the beautiful Willamette River. Tickets are priced at $24 for adults, $16 for children, and $21.60 for seniors and active or retired military.

Whether you’re surprising Dad with a family adventure, or simply enjoying the charm of traveling by railroad, this is an experience you won’t want to miss. 

Tickets are available at https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/orhf/items/548042/calendar/2025/06/?flow=469974 

OHA to issue algae warnings when dog deaths reported  

As summer approaches, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reminds people heading outdoors to enjoy the state’s lakes, rivers and reservoirs to be on the look-out for potentially toxic cyanobacteria blooms.  

To help, OHA is adding a tool reporting the possible presence of cyanobacteria in freshwater lakes and rivers statewide. Starting immediately, OHA will issue pre-emptive public warnings following reports of dog illnesses or deaths possibly resulting from cyanotoxin exposure.  

OHA advises recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms in the water and in mats attached to the ground or rocks. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.  

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab. 

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state.

The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability.

In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs.

If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

OHA kicks off 2025 Oregon beach monitoring season

Agency lists monitored beaches for May-September

—The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program (OBMP) is kicking off the 2025 season by announcing the coastal recreation areas it will be keeping an eye on for bacteria during summer and early fall.

The OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division, monitors some of the most frequently visited beaches in the state. The list includes beaches where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution.

• To see a video about Oregon’s beach monitoring effort, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82GVixgeGsM

The following beaches are being monitored this season, including name, and the city and county in which they are located:

• Seaside Beach – Seaside, Clatsop County
• Cannon Beach – Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Tolovana Beach State Park– Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Short Sand Beach (Oswald West State Park) – Arch Cape, Tillamook County
• Manzanita Beach – Manzanita, Tillamook County
• Rockaway Beach – Rockaway, Tillamook County
• Twin Rocks Beach – Twin Rocks, Tillamook County
• Oceanside Beach – Oceanside, Tillamook County
• Cape Kiwanda Beach – Pacific City, Tillamook County
• Neskowin Beach – Neskowin, Tillamook County
• D River Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Siletz Bay Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Beverly Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Agate Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Nye Beach – Newport, Lincoln City
• Ona Beach (Brian Booth-Beaver Creek State Park) – Seal Rock, Lincoln City
• Seal Rock Beach – Seal Rock, Lincoln County
• Heceta Beach – Florence, Lane County
• Bastendorff Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Sunset Bay State Park Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Hubbard Creek Beach – Port Orford, Curry County
• Harris Beach State Park – Brookings, Curry County
• Mill Beach – Brookings, Curry County
• Crissey Fields State Recreation Site – Brookings, Curry County

The OBMP season runs from mid-May to mid-September.  Advisories are issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within this sampling window. Other beaches will be investigated for inclusion in upcoming seasons.

The OBMP works with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to determine beaches that need monitoring based on several criteria. These criteria include pollution hazards present; previous monitoring data that identify water quality concerns; type and amount of beach use; and public input.

As part of an adaptive sampling plan, beaches and sampling locations are routinely re-evaluated to ensure available resources best protect public health. A copy of DEQ’s beach evaluation is available upon request.

For more information and current beach monitoring conditions please visit: www.healthoregon.org/beach, or contact OBMP at each.Health@oha.oregon.gov” rel=”noopener” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;” target=”_blank”>Beach.Health@oha.oregon.gov or 1-877-290-6767. 

Oregon’s Missing Persons

Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.

In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.

Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced

 Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline.

It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com