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
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Willamette Valley Weather
Stay updated with the National Weather Service and NOAA for the latest information on evolving conditions.
June 22–28 is #LightningSafetyAwarenessWeek. Lightning strikes can cause fires, injuries, and even death—knowing what to do can save lives.
Download NFPA’s Lightning Safety Tip Sheet for key reminders on how to stay safe during a storm: https://nfpa.social/4dQJEEq
The Legal Sale of Retail Fireworks in Oregon Through July 6
In Oregon, it is illegal to deploy any firework that launches into the air or shoots flames without a permit. Legal fireworks, such as fountains, flitter sparklers, ground spinners and spinning wheels, are sold in the state from June 23 to July 6, but these fireworks are banned from use within Eugene city limits.
ER Wait Times Skyrocket In Springfield After PeaceHealth Closed Eugene’s Only Hospital
PeaceHealth’s decision to wind down operations at the downtown Eugene campus didn’t just eliminate an emergency department. It ended most inpatient care, except for behavioral health services.
At RiverBend, emergency visits jumped from 9,883 in 2023 to 13,687 in 2024. That first quarter of 2024 was its busiest first quarter in six years. (Data for 2025 is not available yet from OHA.) In tandem, the average time patients spent in the emergency department also rose, reaching nearly seven hours.
Union members and staff with the Oregon Nurses Association say the transition from two PeaceHealth emergency departments to one was difficult.
And though PeaceHealth moved staff to RiverBend and maintains a relatively high number of beds there, about 60, that doesn’t replace the physical presence of hospital care in Eugene.
Meanwhile, McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center is considering a potential satellite emergency department to expand access for west Eugene residents, many of whom face a 20-minute drive or more to reach either of Springfield’s full-service hospitals.
Learn more 
https://ow.ly/9QF050WfGH0
Eugene City Council Public Accepted the budget committee’s recommendation for the next 2 years, including:
- Raising the stormwater fee by 18-percent to free up $4.7-million in general funds.
- Restoring services like park maintenance, library hours, and animal services with Greenhill Humane Society.
- Directing the City Manager to investigate how to relaunch a CAHOOTS-like program for crisis response at an estimated cost of $2.2-million a year.
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).
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.
The city 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!
Recreational use advisory lifted for Fern Ridge Reservoir
—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Fern Ridge Reservoir in Lane County. OHA initially issued the advisory on June 18.
Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Fern Ridge Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people.
OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. 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.
When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause a person to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities – and keep pets out of the area.
Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.
For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.
Rite Aid’s Echo Hollow Store Closing as Company files bankruptcy
The Rite Aid store on Echo Hollow is preparing to shut its doors. It’s one of more than 30 locations closing across Oregon as the company undergoes its second bankruptcy filing in less than a year.
Rite Aid is re-entering Chapter 11 bankruptcy just seven months after it first emerged from the process. The company now operates just over 1,000 stores nationwide, less than half of what it had two years ago.
Pharmacy services at the Echo Hollow Road location have already stopped, and the store is expected to close entirely in the near future. The closure leaves one fewer pharmacy option for residents in the area.
Executives say the new filing is part of a plan to explore a potential sale and restructure its business model amid what they describe as a rapidly changing retail and healthcare environment.
In a statement, Rite Aid CEO Matt Schroeder said, “While we have continued to face financial challenges…we are encouraged by meaningful interest from a number of potential national and regional strategic acquirors.”
Prescriptions from the Echo Hollow store are being transferred to other Rite Aid locations or partner pharmacies. Rite Aid has not released a timeline for when other Eugene stores will close permanently. We do know the Rite Aid on Coburg Road is also set to close, while locations in Woodfield Station and on Marcola Road in Springfield remain open.
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/
Road Closure: Old Mill Road (Office Covered Bridge) for Mountain Bike Oregon event — Old Mill Road , Westfir
Closure location: Office Covered Bridge – Thursday, June 26, at 12:00 p.m. through Sunday, June 29, at 4:00 p.m. Alternate routes: None.
Fatal Crash – Highway 99 – Lane County
LANE COUNTY, Ore. (June 24, 2025) — On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at about 3:41 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four-vehicle crash on Highway 99 in Lane County. OSP later received notification that one of the vehicle operators had died from injuries sustained in the crash.
The preliminary investigation indicated a white Chevrolet Silverado dually pickup, operated by Sheldon Bryce Moore (46) of Creswell, was traveling southbound on Highway 99 near milepost 10 when it slowed to negotiate a turn. A southbound blue Mazda Tribute, operated by Joseph M. Peters (35) of Cottage Grove, rear-ended a white Chevrolet Tahoe, operated by Tenielle Lynette Long-Piccolo (35) of Cottage Grove, which was directly behind the Chevrolet Silverado. The Mazda then veered into the northbound lane and collided with a white Ford F-350 pickup, operated by Marcelo Analco Garcia (34) of Eugene, which was towing a dump trailer loaded with dirt and rocks.
The operator of the Mazda (Peters) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. OSP was later notified that Peters died from his injuries on June 20, 2025.
The operator of the Chevrolet Tahoe (Long-Piccolo), a female juvenile (14), and a second female juvenile (9) were transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The operator of the Ford F-350 (Analco Garcia) had reported minor injuries but was not transported.
The operator of the Chevrolet Silverado (Moore) was not injured.
The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation. The crash remains under investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Cottage Grove Police Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
HELP YOUR COMMUNITY BEAT THE HEAT WITH OPERATION SUMMER HYDRATION
Supporting water needs in the community during hot temperatures this summer — Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with the Severe Weather Collaborative and First Christian Church, is calling the community to join in helping others to Beat the Heat by donating cases of water to Operation Summer Hydration.
Operation Summer Hydration is an effort to collect much needed water supplies to help our unhoused neighbors stay safe during the high and extreme temperatures we continue to experience during the summer months. This water supply can also be accessed by local area cooling spaces who offer short term respite from the heat to both the housed and unhoused, when temperatures reach 90 degrees and above.
These water donations can mean the difference between safety and hazardous health risks for those exposed to prolonged extreme heat and dehydration. Your generosity can make a life-saving difference for someone facing the elements this summer.
To kick off Operation Summer Hydration, the Severe Weather Collaborative and First Christian Church will host a one-day donation drive on Friday June 27th from 1pm-4pm where community members can drop off water donations. After the event, water donations will be accepted Monday through Thursday from 10am to 2pm at First Christian Church.
Water donations and other essential outdoor survival items to support those experiencing homelessness can also be purchased from the Amazon Wish List and shipped directly to First Christian Church at 1166 Oak Street, Eugene, OR 97401. — Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share
LCSO Case #25-2918 BODY FOUND IN MARCOLA
On June 21, 2025 Deputies responded to the report of a body that was found near the 92000 block of Marcola Rd. and close to the river. When deputies and Marcola Fire arrived they located a deceased male near the river at a makeshift camp. There were no obvious signs of suspicious activity. The medical examiners office was contacted and they took control of the deceased male. No further information will be released at this time due to the ongoing investigation and next of kin notifications.
Woman arrested for Arson and Theft in the First Degree after early morning fire
40-year-old Leticia Datu-Strong (AKA Rickie Potts) was arrested and lodged at Lane County Jail on three counts of Theft in the First Degree, and a count of Arson in the First Degree in connection with a fire at a home in the 1000 block of W. 3rd Avenue this morning.
At approx 1:18 AM on 06/20/2025 Eugene Springfield Fire (ESF) responded to a reported house fire in the 1000 block of W 3rd Ave in Eugene. Neighbors reported heavy fire showing from the roof of the involved structure with possible victims inside. ESF Engine 2, from the Whiteaker station, responded as part of a full fire response of 4 engines, 1 ladder truck and 2 chiefs.
When crews arrived, they reported heavy fire involvement and immediately went to work on the fire attack. When Tower 2 arrived, they made entry to search for victims in all searchable spaces. During initial suppression and search operations, crews encountered high heat and zero visibility and it was determined there was too much fire involvement to safely operate inside. The decision was made to withdraw from the structure and water was applied from the exterior with Engine 2’s deck gun.
After the bulk of fire was knocked down, crews re-entered the building to complete the search for potential victims. An additional engine and truck were called along with Support 1 due to the extended operations. No victims (human or animals) were found, and the fire was extinguished. There were no reported injuries and fire is being investigated by the ESF Fire Marshals and Eugene Police.
The Springfield Public Library launches nine weeks of multicultural music, dancing and storytelling events at its outdoor plaza this week.
Every Wednesday morning, from June 18 to August 13, the library is hosting free, public programs with diverse artists and organizations from around Oregon. MORE INFO: https://wheremindsgrow.org/events/summer FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/springfieldpubliclibrary
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…
This new space will help us rescue and redistribute more food, operate more efficiently, and better serve our community. We’ve already raised $7,500 toward our $10,000 match challenge!Help us unlock the full $10,000 by June 10th! Every dollar you give today = DOUBLE the impact. Give here: https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse… Let’s raise the roof—literally and figuratively. 
The OG Corner Market — We are launching a Go Fund Me to raise the needed funds to save The OG Corner Market.
The Lane County Fair – Tickets On Sale
· 
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/
Back to School Drive – June 1 to July 31!
Help CCS support over 200 kids enrolled in our programs — most of whom will start the school year without the supplies they need. Together, we can change that!
From June 1 to July 31, we’re collecting NEW school supplies to give these students a strong start.
Most Needed Items (New Only):
Pencils & pens
Notebooks & paper
Watercolors & markers Backpacks
Scissors & erasers
… and more
Your donation can make a direct impact in a child’s life. 
Find a complete list of supplies and a donation site near you and give today! www.ccslc.org/back-to-school-drive Let’s make sure every student walks into school confident, prepared, and ready to learn.
Oregon Health Authority – · Evacuations can be challenging and stressful. It can be even more stressful if you were unable to grab your prescriptions.
If your prescriptions were lost, left behind or ran out after you evacuated, you may be able to get an emergency refill.
Running into issues with your insurance? The Oregon Prescription Drug Program offers a state-sponsored drug discount card program called Array Rx, open to any resident in Oregon, has no income limitations and does not have membership fees or requirements: https://ow.ly/SlaU50Wb80N
Not sure what to take with you during an evacuation? Check out this emergency packing list: https://ow.ly/vpC250Wb80O
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.
Visit us at the First Christian Church – 1166 Oak St.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 9-1
Sunday 12-4
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572229470271
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.
OHCS seeks public input on Substantial Action Plan Amendment for disaster recovery infrastructure funding — Zoom Meeting June 25th at 6pm
– Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) published a draft Action Plan Amendment for a $422 million disaster recovery grant and is seeking public input on the changes. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) is administered through a suite of programs, also known as “ReOregon.” These programs support individuals, households, and communities as they continue to recover from the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds.
The draft Action Plan Amendment would reallocate program funds to support the Gates Wastewater Collection System project in Marion County so it can meet the grant’s timelines and streamline construction. This project is critical for wildfire recovery and increasing housing supply. A short summary of the key elements of the plan and the entire draft Action Plan Amendment is available for review on OHCS’ website at https://re.oregon.gov.
Public comment on the draft Action Plan Amendment will be taken for 30 days through public hearings, online form, email, mail, or telephone. The hearings will include a short presentation by Marion County representatives and OHCS officials, followed by public feedback. Printed copies of the plan will be available by request.
A virtual hearing on Zoom will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 25. Please register to attend.
Information presented at the public hearings will be available on the ReOregon website at re.oregon.gov. Spanish translation services will be available at all the public hearings. Please email hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov if you need special accommodations.
In addition to providing comment at the hearings, the public will be able to do so by:
- E-mail: hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov
- Online form:
- Phone: 877-510-6800
- Mail: OHCS, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite B, Salem, OR 97301-1266
All comments must be submitted to OHCS no later than 11:59 p.m. July 9, 2025.
After the 30-day public comment period, feedback will be incorporated into the plan before OHCS submits it to HUD for review and approval, which can take up to 45 days. As required by HUD, OHCS will address all comments received.
To learn more about ReOregon programs, visit re.oregon.gov or sign up to receive e-mail notifications.
About Oregon Housing and Community Services
OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.
Oregon’s first measles case of 2025 confirmed in Multnomah County
Health officials investigating individual’s recent international travel, potential locations of exposure
Oregon Health Authority and county public health officials are investigating a case of measles in an individual who recently returned to the state following international travel. The individual is not vaccinated against measles.
A commercial laboratory confirmed the measles case June 23. The affected individual is an adult who developed measles symptoms—sore throat, weakness, fatigue, headache and fever—on June 16.
The individual was hospitalized in the Portland metro area with a rash and conjunctivitis June 19 and was discharged June 21. County public health officials and hospital staff believe no patients were exposed. The person is recovering.
Health officials believe the individual acquired the disease while traveling abroad the last four to five weeks. This case is not believed to be connected to measles outbreaks in other U.S. states.
“We’re here to tell you that measles is now in Oregon, and if you’re not vaccinated, you are susceptible,” said Paul R. Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.
“You could get measles if you’re exposed to someone who is contagious, which can be from four days before their rash starts until four days after. After exposure, it can take up to three weeks before you show the characteristic measles rash. So, someone could not even know they have measles and be transmitting it for several days. That’s why it’s extremely important that all adults and children in their household be up to date on vaccinations.”
People might have been exposed if they were in any of these areas during these times:
- Flight UA1832/SN8869 (Brussels Air Operated by United Airlines) on Tuesday, June 17 (economy cabin); departed Chicago O’Hare International Airport at 4:01 p.m. CDT, arrived at Portland International Airport at 6:29 p.m. PDT.
- Portland International Airport arrivals and baggage claim between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17.
- Safeway, located at 401 A Ave., Lake Oswego, in Clackamas County, between 1 p.m. and 3:20 p.m., on Sunday, June 22
How measles spreads and symptoms
Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.
Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication. In developed countries in recent years, one or two out of every 1,000 measles cases have been fatal.
Determining your risk of measles
Most people in Oregon have been vaccinated to prevent measles, usually as children. Anyone who received a measles vaccination at any time in their life has a very low risk of getting measles. But the disease is highly contagious, and the risk is high for anyone who has not received measles vaccination and has been exposed to the disease.
Measles poses the highest risk to:
- Unvaccinated pregnant people.
- Infants younger than 1 year old.
- People with weakened immune systems.
You are considered immune to measles if any of the following apply:
- You were born before 1957.
- You’ve been diagnosed with measles at any point in your life.
- A blood test proves that you are immune.
- You have had two doses of measles vaccine.
Traveling internationally
Individuals traveling to places known to have measles should get vaccinated in advance. It is also important to vaccinate infants 6-12 months old who are planning to travel internationally to places where measles is common.
What to do if you suspect measles in your household
Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:
- Have a measles-like rash (see CDC link here for an example: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/photos.html).
- Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes).
Individuals planning to seek medical care should first call a health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.
Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx, and on OHA’s blog at https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/measles-what-you-should-know/.
Some lawmakers in Oregon are working to limit when and how the Oregon National Guard can be deployed, following President Donald Trump’s federalization of the National Guard in California to respond to protests in Los Angeles.
Three representatives have introduced a bill that would strengthen state oversight.
The bill would prohibit any deployment that compromises the National Guard’s ability to respond to in-state emergencies, like wildfires and earthquakes. It would also specify what duties National Guard personnel may and may not be called to perform.
Advocates said the bill would help protect state resources, reinforce state sovereignty and community safety.
“Deploying the military against our country’s citizens is an affront to our democratic principles,” Rep. Dacia Grayber, D-Southwest Portland, and one of the chief sponsors of the bill, said in a news release. “Ensuring that the Guard can only be mobilized in keeping with their congressionally-authorized functions is a common-sense safeguard to ensure separation of responsibility between our military and our local law enforcement.”
Lawmakers passed the bill out of the House Rules Committee on Tuesday. The top Republican in the House, Christine Drazan voted no, saying she wanted to discuss with the caucus first.
“Deploying the military against our country’s citizens is an affront to our democratic principles,” Rep. Dacia Grayber, D-Southwest Portland, and one of the chief sponsors of the bill, said in a news release. “Ensuring that the Guard can only be mobilized in keeping with their congressionally-authorized functions is a common-sense safeguard to ensure separation of responsibility between our military and our local law enforcement.”
Lawmakers passed the bill out of the House Rules Committee on Tuesday. The top Republican in the House, Christine Drazan voted no, saying she wanted to discuss with the caucus first.
Report finds Oregon hepatitis C death rates are among the country’s worst
Oregon has clocked in at the top of a nationwide database for rates of hepatitis C, prompting state health officials to call for increased resources aimed at stemming the disease’s impact on Oregon’s most vulnerable communities.
People in Oregon are 2.7 times more likely to die from hepatitis C compared to those who live in other states, according to two annual reports on hepatitis C released by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in April. The most recent data in those reports is from 2023.
That puts Oregon behind only the District of Columbia and Oklahoma, according to the center. The average rate of hepatitis C-related deaths in Oregon stands at 6.76 per 100,000 people, the data shows.
“Hepatitis C is common, causes serious illness and leads to a lot of hospitalizations and deaths,” said Dr. Paul Cieslak, medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at the Oregon Health Authority’s public health division, in a Monday news release. “The good news is that we can now treat it and spare people a lot of suffering.”
The viral disease involves liver inflammation, hampering the body’s ability to fight infections and filter its blood after an infection takes hold. Symptoms of hepatitis C include yellow skin, lack of appetite, pain in the stomach or dark urine, which can progress into chronic pain or cancer in extreme cases.
While alcohol use and certain medications can cause the condition, it can also be transmitted through the sharing of drug-injection equipment, unprotected sexual activity and sharing other personal, non-sterile equipment in health care settings or businesses like tattoo parlors.
Who’s most affected? – Health officials’ analysis of the CDC’s data for Oregon found that those who use illicit drugs are most likely to develop an infection. They also pegged those aged 20 to 29 years old as most likely to acquire the disease, with Black and Native American communities around twice as likely to contract the virus “due to systemic challenges.”
The rise of the infection has also been particularly acute in rural areas of Oregon, with a March 2025 study from Oregon Health & Science University finding that peer support and easy access to telemedicine care led to a 63% cure rate, nearly four times higher than those served by their local providers. No such program exists statewide in Oregon.
“My hope is that public health can play the important role of linking people with hepatitis C to appropriate care,” Cieslak said in the release. “We’d love to be able to implement peer support services and telehealth for hepatitis C systematically across the state.”
Efforts to increase access to care and interventions against the disease are underway as part of OHA 2024-27 Strategic Plan, which aims to expand access to vaccines and other health resources for communities throughout Oregon. Vaccines are not available for preventing hepatitis C, but the disease can be cured with treatment and medication, often within eight to 12 weeks, according to the CDC.
The health authority is calling for additional resources to improve local responses to hepatitis C screening, such as more peer-supported services, additional streamlined pathways to life-saving care and monitoring systems for tracking testing and curing rates. (SOURCE)
The Legal Sale of Retail Fireworks in Oregon – June 23rd to July 6th
- Legal fireworks in the State of Oregon include but are not limited to novelty devices, wheels, flitter sparklers, fountains, smoke devices, and ground spinners.
- The legal sale of retail fireworks in Oregon is from June 23rd to July 6th.
- There is no regulation pertaining to when consumer legal fireworks may be used. Please be courteous to your neighbors and friends.
- There are restrictions as to where fireworks can be used, such as beaches and federal lands. Always check with the local jurisdictions. See the fireworks education page.
- Illegal fireworks include but are not limited to sky lanterns, missiles, rockets, firecrackers, cherry bombs, M-80s, Roman candles, and bottle rockets.
- Should you wish to report the firing of illegal pyrotechnic devices, please contact your local law enforcement via their non-emergency number.
- If you would like to request information about issued permits on a specific location, please submit a Public Records Request.
- For assistance in disposing of your leftover or unwanted fireworks, call your local law enforcement via their non-emergency number or the Oregon State Police non-emergency number at 1-800-452-7888.
Local jurisdictions may further regulate the sale and use of fireworks in their areas. Always check with your local jurisdiction for the legal use of fireworks in your area.
Face Rock Creamery, based in Bandon, Oregon, is recalling two specific batches of its Vampire Slayer Garlic Cheddar Curds over a possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
The recall is for 6 oz. cups with use-by date of 08292025, which were sold at Trader Joe’s locations in Northern California and Northern Nevada.
According to the Food & Drug Administration:
The Vampire Slayer Garlic Cheddar Curds was packaged in a clear in a sealed plastic cup with lid and has the UPC 8 51222 00528 7. It has the Lot numbers 20250519VS01 and 20250519VS02, and the Use By date of 08292025.
Listeria can cause serious illness and even death in young, elderly, or groups with weakened immune systems.
“Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women,” the FDA said.
North Entrance to Crater Lake National Park Reopens
The North Entrance to Crater Lake National Park has reopened in time for the summer season.
The following roads are now open:
- Highway 62
- Munson Valley Road
- West Rim Drive
- North Entrance Road
- East Rim from North Junction to Skell Head
The National Park Service is reminding the public that open roads in the park may still have icy areas, even with the sun out. Drivers are asked to take care.
East Rim Drive from Skell Head to Park Headquarters is still closed as plow operators continue to move rocks, snow and debris. https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/hours.htm
Sheriff’s Deputies Arrest Arson Suspect for Lighting Fire Near 2-Acre Red Blanket Road Fire in Prospect
Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies arrested a Prospect man for intentionally starting a fire Wednesday, June 18 in the Red Blanket Road area east of Prospect. JCSO deputies located the man Thursday, June 19 in the 44000 block of Highway 62 in Prospect.
The suspect barricaded briefly in a house before deputies arrested him without incident at 12:32 PM. The suspect, Allen Lee Bicknell, 51, a Prospect area transient, is charged with first-degree arson and reckless burning. A Jackson County Grand Jury indicted Bicknell on all charges the morning of Tuesday, June 24. He is lodged in the Jackson County Jail.
Wednesday at 1:57 PM, Oregon Department of Forestry ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters responded to a fire on Red Blanket Road east of Prospect. During an aggressive initial attack, an ODF firefighter reported observing a suspect, later identified as Bicknell, in the area of the fire acting in a suspicious manner, but he fled on foot.
Firefighters reported the sighting to JCSO and were able to stop the original fire at an estimated two acres. JCSO deputies responded to continue the investigation while also assisting in the firefighting efforts. This case is open and ongoing with deputies and ODF investigating. There is no further information available for release at this time.
F𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝟭𝟭 𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱 Near Central Point
Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) firefighters are investigating following 11 roadside fires that were reported along Table Rock Road outside of Central Point, three in the morning and eight in the evening of June 23. All fires have been extinguished at small sizes with the largest being half an acre.
Just after 11 a.m., Jackson County Fire District 3 and ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters were dispatched to a report of fire along the 13000-block of Table Rock Road near the intersection of Highway 234. Upon arrival, two additional fires were located in the area. An aggressive initial attack from both agencies resulted in all three fires being quickly extinguished, the largest at half an acre. A preliminary investigation found all three fires to likely be vehicle-related.
Around 6:30 p.m., a new fire in the same area was reported. Both agencies responded once again and found eight small fires between the 11000 and 13000 blocks of Table Rock Road. All eight fires were stopped at 1/10th of an acre or less.
Following a continued investigation, the cause of the fires has been determined to be vehicle-related and all fires remain under investigation. Investigators have ruled out chip sealing conducted by Jackson County Roads in the area as a potential cause at this time.
Vehicle-related fires are common along roadways, especially in areas with dry grass. Fire causes related to cars include faulty catalytic converters; when not maintained, sparks and metal pieces can shoot out tailpipes and ignite dry vegetation near the roadway. Another common car-related fire cause is tow chains dragging on the road. If chains aren’t properly secured, they can hit the pavement and throw sparks into dry grass. Additionally, off-roading in areas of dry vegetation or even parking a hot car over dry grass can cause a fire.
Help prevent human-caused fires this summer by keeping these common vehicle-related fire causes in mind and mitigate risks where possible: ensure your car is regularly serviced by a mechanic, check tow chains and ensure they’re secure, and park in areas clear of dry vegetation.
During fire season, ODF regulates activities that commonly cause wildfires. By following local regulations, fires can be prevented. A complete list is available here: https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions
For more fire information, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest or our website, www.swofire.com
Lincoln County School District Employee Convicted of Raping Student
On June 24, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Presiding Judge Sheryl Bachart sentenced Angela Schafer (53-year-old) to 18 months in the Department of Corrections for sexually abusing a Taft High School student while Schafer was employed by the school district.
Schafer was employed by the Lincoln County School District in 2022 as a Health Services Advocate serving at Taft High School, Lincoln City, Oregon. In September 2024, Lincoln City Police Department (LCPD) initiated an investigation after allegations surfaced regarding an inappropriate relationship between Schafer and a student earlier that year. After an extensive investigation by Detective Bud Lane (LCPD), Schafer was officially indicted by the Lincoln County Grand Jury in November 2024.
On June 24, 2025, Schafer entered a guilty plea to one count of Rape in the Third Degree for knowingly engaging in sexual intercourse with a child under the age of sixteen and one count of Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor. Under Oregon sentencing guidelines, Schafer was initially subject to a probationary sentence given her lack of criminal history. However, given the vulnerability of the victim and Schafer’s position of power or trust over the victim, the State planned to seek a prison sentence through enhancement factors after trial.
Ultimately, through plea negotiations, Schafer stipulated to an 18-month prison sentence with an agreement that Judge Bachart would decide whether the prison sentence would be served immediately or held in abeyance while Schafer was supervised locally in the community. At sentencing, DA Wallace advocated for Schafer to be sentenced to an upfront 18-month prison sentence given the role Schafer’s employment played in her crimes and the particular vulnerability of the victim. Defense argued that Schafer should be placed on probation given the viable treatment options in the community.
Prior to sentencing Schafer, Judge Bachart stated, “You never know who is capable of doing this; it can be anybody. Some people are put in positions with greater access to children and you used your position, the access you had to this child, and his vulnerability to sexually abuse him – the aggravating factors are significant.” Judge Bachart sentenced Schafer to 18 months prison and Schafer was taken into custody and began serving her sentence today. Schafer will also be required to register as a sex offender, complete an alcohol and drug treatment program, and pay a $8,500 fine. — This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace.
Oregon’s House of Representatives has approved a reform package aimed at tackling the increasing threats and costs associated with wildfires
According to the Oregon House, House Bill 3940 modernizes wildfire mitigation funding and introduces a new tax on oral nicotine products.
The bill is designed to enhance Oregon’s wildfire finance and response systems. It establishes new funding mechanisms for wildfire mitigation and links them directly to taxes on emerging nicotine products.
Rep. Pam Marsh of Ashland emphasized the need for “21st-century solutions” to prioritize wildfire mitigation and community safety.
“This bill is about prioritizing wildfire mitigation, making our communities safer, and building a funding system that is more sustainable. We’re investing in resilience and taking real steps to reduce the long-term human and economic toll of wildfire,” Marsh said.
One component of the bill is the introduction of a per-unit tax on oral nicotine products, like nicotine pouches, with the revenue directed to the Landscape Resiliency Fund and Community Risk Reduction Fund. House Bill 3940 passed with bipartisan support and now advances to the Oregon Senate for further consideration.
2025 Chi-Town Family Festival – Chiloquin, Oregon
Friday & Saturday – June 27 & June 28, 2025 Chiloquin Rodeo Event Grounds
Free activities for the entire family —— Kick-off a summer of fun at the Chi-Town Family Festival! Free admission, free parking, free fun for all!
The City of Chiloquin is excited to extend an invitation to both residents and visitors for the 4th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival, taking place on Friday, June 27 (2–6 PM) and Saturday, June 28 (10 AM–6 PM) at the Chiloquin Rodeo and Event Grounds.
With no admission fee, this family-oriented festival provides entertainment for all—join in the celebration of summer with your community All proceeds will support Chiloquin Visions in Progress (CVIP) and its various community initiatives, including the Chiloquin Community Center and youth programs such as the new Chiloquin Teen Adventure Camp launching this July — MORE INFO: https://chi-townfamilyfestival.com
Oregon Star Party Coming to Prineville: June 24 – June 29 2025
This year’s Oregon Star Party is set to take place June 24th through the 29th on the Big Summit Prairie east of Prineville. This party is not about celebrities. It’s all about looking at the stars, galaxies and nebulas in one of the darkest places in North America.
Barring forest fires and pandemics, some 500 people will trek 50 miles east of Prineville onto the Big Summit Prairie with RVs, tents and telescopes and sit up all night looking at the heavens.
“If you love the night sky and are interested in learning about it, yes, you can definitely come here,” said Marianne Ramona, Oregon Star Party vice president. “You may not want to come for five days. This area, this is just a fraction of the telescopes that we personally bring to the event, and we love to share. We love to teach. We have people that give talks about different things, some that are basic, some that are very complicated. We try to cover that whole realm. We definitely welcome new people.”
People come from all across the country to participate in the Star Party because this remote part of Oregon has some of the darkest night skies in the lower 48 states. Held at Indian Springs on the Big Summit Prairie, it is 5,000 feet above sea level which means less atmosphere and better viewing. MORE INFO: https://oregonstarparty.org
Press Release: SOLVE Launches Summer with SOLVE Campaign to Take Action and Preserve Outdoor Spaces
– Summer is here, and with it comes more opportunities to enjoy the PNW’s beaches, parks, and rivers. However, the increased outdoor activity also leads to more litter and strain on the environment. To combat this, SOLVE is launching its Summer with SOLVE campaign, designed to take action, connect communities, and celebrate the beauty of our region through environmental action.
“Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a time to ensure these spaces remain clean and sustainable for future generations,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “Together, we can create cleaner, more inviting spaces that reflect our pride in our region and our commitment to caring for the environment. By working together, we can make a significant impact and inspire others to join in the effort to protect our natural spaces that we love to enjoy, especially during summer.”
SOLVE kicked off summer with Pick It Up, Portland!, a citywide celebration on World Environment Day, June 5. The event focused on four different locations across Portland: Market Street Downtown, Holladay Park, Sellwood Riverfront Park, and Eastbank Esplanade. This was the first of many volunteer opportunities offered by SOLVE this summer, with more projects planned throughout the season, including the ongoing Waterway Cleanup Series, protecting the health of local rivers, streams and creeks.
What You’ll See This Summer
As outdoor recreation increases, SOLVE volunteers will:
- Remove litter from parks, neighborhoods, beaches, and riverbanks
- Maintain recreation sites and public green spaces
- Mulch around native trees and shrubs
- Remove invasive plant species that thrive in summer months like Japanese knotweed, Himalayan blackberry, and Scotch broom
Key Summer Events:
- Afterglow: Post-4th Cleanups (July 5-6): Volunteers will tackle the debris left behind from holiday celebrations to help restore outdoor spaces and shorelines.
- Willamette River Cleanup (August 9): A focused cleanup of the Willamette River, combating litter both on the water and along the riverbanks.
- Waterway Cleanup Series (ongoing through September): A series of cleanup efforts dedicated to preserving Oregon’s rivers and streams during the peak outdoor season.
- Monthly Detrash Portland Events: Community cleanups in Portland’s business districts, focusing on revitalizing key areas in the city.
Looking ahead, SOLVE is also preparing for its annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup, September 20-28, part of the global International Coastal Cleanup, World Rivers Day and National Public Lands Day initiatives.
Join Summer with SOLVE – This summer, SOLVE invites you to take part in protecting and preserving the natural spaces that make our region special. Whether you’re volunteering at a cleanup event, leading your own group, or taking on a DIY project, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.
Try the Trash Bag Challenge—pick up a bag of litter, then challenge friends or coworkers to do the same. Pass the bag, spread the impact, and inspire others to take action.
Every effort counts. Together, we can keep our neighborhoods, parks, and waterways clean and beautiful for generations to come.
For more information about Summer with SOLVE and how to get involved, visit solveoregon.org/seasons or follow us on social media.
About SOLVE – SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
Oregon Lottery Unveils State Parks Adventures Themed Scratch-its
– For the fourth year in a row, Oregon Lottery is highlighting the natural beauty of Oregon State Parks with new “Adventures” themed Scratch-its. The $5 tickets feature three designs of Oregon State Park landscapes with a top prize of $50,000. The tickets are available at Oregon Lottery retailers statewide.
Lottery game play helps ensure that our state parks are continuously maintained and improved, with Oregon State Parks receiving more than $1 billion in Lottery funds since 1999.
The tickets were designed by Oregon Lottery staff and highlight the diversity of the region through scenes featuring the coast, high desert, and the forest and mountain ranges. On the back of each ticket, players will find facts and tidbits about parks and natural areas that correspond to each scene.
“Oregon’s state parks offer everyone the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors – whether that’s exploring a challenging trail or a relaxing picnic with a scenic view,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to support Oregon’s park system, which showcases Oregon’s natural beauty.”
Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery, visit www.oregonlottery.org.
PUC Approves Customer Protections to Avoid Disconnection of Utility Service When Extreme Heat Warning in Effect
– The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) recently approved temporary rules to protect residential customers—especially vulnerable households—from disconnection of electric utility services during extreme high temperatures.
Under the new rules, which will remain in effect through October 24, 2025, all regulated investor-owned utilities including Portland General Electric, PacifiCorp, and Idaho Power, are required to:
- Not disconnect service during peak heat – Utilities are prohibited from disconnecting electric service for 48-hours following a qualifying heat event, such as a heat advisory from the National Weather Service, ensuring households can safely cope with and recover from extreme temperatures.
- Reconnect service required during heat event – Customers whose utility services were disconnected up to 7 days before a heat event can request to be reconnected without delay once the heat event begins to help prevent risk to health and safety of residents.
- Waive reconnection fees – Although previous rules approved by the Commission waive select reconnection fees for any low-income customer, these temporary rules expand to waive all reconnection fees for medical certificate account holders or discount program participants earning less than 10 percent of state median income.
- Improve outreach and communication – The new rules require utilities to improve customer notifications to help ensure eligible customers are informed of their rights and can quickly access reconnection when needed.
“The Commission approved these rules to help ensure customers of the utilities we regulate will not lose power during dangerous heat events,” said Letha Tawney, PUC Chair. “These are critical steps to protect our most vulnerable neighbors and are timely as Oregon is already experiencing the first heat events of the summer.”
# # # The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural, and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.
More Oregon Workers Are Part Time as Labor Market Cools
- Oregon’s labor market weakened in the latest quarter as total jobs fell by 0.2 percent, shedding 25,000 positions across the state.
- This decline followed several years of slower job growth, with the health sector losing 11,000 jobs despite adding over 109,000 in the past year.
- Part-Time employment reached its highest point in a decade, comprising nearly 23 percent of workers, while job openings dropped by more than half since 2022 to about 50,000.
- Fields noted Oregon’s labor market shows less hiring demand and more slack than the national average due to demographics and higher part-time work among older workers.
- These trends indicate a cooling labor market with structural shifts that could challenge private sector growth and require economic adjustments moving forward.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is issuing a reminder to the public that if you encounter a fawn alone, it is not abandoned, and you should refrain from removing the animal.
The agency’s Central Point office has already documented six cases of individuals bringing in fawns or has received calls from people inquiring about fawns they have picked up. It emphasizes that this is the season when deer give birth, and it is crucial to understand that they do not abandon their fawns. Instead, they conceal their fawns while they forage to prevent attracting predators, allowing them to subsequently feed their young.
Experts indicate that removing a fawn can significantly reduce its chances of survival, as stated by Chris Shelton from ODFW’s Rogue District. If you happen upon a fawn alone, it is best to leave it in its location and maintain a safe distance. Does are highly protective of their offspring and have been known to injure humans and even kill small pets.
Additionally, it is important to note that removing wildlife is illegal; it is classified as a class-A misdemeanor, which can lead to a potential year in jail and fines exceeding $6,200.
Victims of child sexual abuse or sexual assault will have an unlimited timeframe to file lawsuits against their abusers, as well as against institutions that facilitated the abuse, according to a bill that received overwhelming and often emotional support in the Oregon House on Thursday.
House Bill 3582 aims to align Oregon with a growing number of states that are either expanding or abolishing statutes of limitations for civil actions related to sexual assault or child sexual abuse. Currently, under existing law, individuals who experienced sexual abuse during childhood must file claims by the age of 40, or within five years of when they establish a link between the abuse and the harms they have endured, whichever period is longer.
Adult victims of sexual assault have a five-year window from the time they recognize a connection between the assault and the harms they have faced.
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)
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
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 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
