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, July 11, 2025
Willamette Valley Weather
Stay updated with the National Weather Service and NOAA for the latest information on evolving conditions.
Oregon Country Fair Kicks Off Today
As if excitement for the Fair wasn’t already sky-high — here is a clip that will send you straight to the moon! 
Tickets! 
https://www.oregoncountryfair.org/tickets/ —- https://www.facebook.com/100064603245756/videos/4059819697597003
Oregon Country Fair 
WE HAVE THE FOOD COVERED!!!! 
Get ready for one of the most delicious, diverse, and downright mouthwatering collections of snacks, suppers, and savory treats ever assembled in one place. From sweet to spicy, hearty to handheld — we’ve got it ALL. 
We’re incredibly blessed 
to have the talented, hardworking culinary stars 
who return to the Fair year after year. They bring the flavor, the flair, and the Fair food magic 
you’ve been dreaming about all year long!Come hungry. Leave happy—you won’t want to miss a bite! 
Here’s is the link for the amazing Peach Pit: https://www.oregoncountryfair.org/peachpit/
Did you know White Bird’s Cleveland Chicken is a fundraiser for the White Bird Clinic here in Eugene?
All proceeds go to direct client services like cold weather gear and denture replacement. Come see us for grilled chicken, corn, water melon and our lovely water melon & lime cooler or come say hello and learn about the services White Bird provides to our community
CLEVELAND CHICKEN!! — For those that don’t know , Cleveland chicken is a 53 or 54 year old ( there’s some that say it wasn’t there the first year , but it’s fuzzy) completely volunteer ran fundraiser for The White Bird Clinic and %100 of the profits we make go directly to client services.
So stop on by ,find out why it’s called Cleveland chicken and get some of usual yummy BBQ chicken, watermelon and corn knowing your $’s going right back to the community .
City of Eugene Government — We want to hear from Eugene residents!
The 2025 Community Survey is available online through July 31 and takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. 
Take the survey on Engage Eugene: https://engage.eugene-or.gov/
Survey questions are meant to help City staff assess the mood and feel of Eugeneans right now, what the community values and what its top concerns are. Your feedback will be instrumental in informing the City Council’s strategic and budget priorities as the City begins to plan for the 2027-2029 biennium and beyond.
Oregon’s Sanctuary Hotline Receives Dozens of Complaints Against Eugene Police After ICE Protest Tuesday
There have been at least 50 complaints filed against Eugene Police after officers responded to a protest outside the Federal Building on Tuesday. The complaints were submitted to Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise Hotline, a state program that tracks potential violations of the state’s sanctuary policies.
According to state law: Oregon police and public agencies cannot assist in federal immigration enforcement without a court order signed by a judge.
Community members claim EPD worked too closely with federal immigration agents as protestors were attempting to speak out against detainments at Eugene’s ICE field office. EPD says officers responded only after federal agents reported safety issues and property damage.
Witnesses say multiple EPD vehicles arrived as tensions rose, after demonstrators attempted to block an ICE transport vehicle.EPD says it did not engage with protesters — and remains compliant with Oregon’s sanctuary laws. The complaints are now under review by the Oregon Department of Justice.
While EPD is not legally required to respond to DOJ questions about alleged violations — people who believe their rights were violated under Oregon’s sanctuary law do have the right to pursue civil legal action in court.
Oregon is home to the only government-run hotline in the country designed to uphold sanctuary laws and support immigrant communities. State law makes it clear: Oregon police and public agencies cannot assist in federal immigration enforcement without a court order signed by a judge. But confusion is a pervasive issue.
Ongoing Missing Person Investigation
On July 1, 2025, Albany Police responded to a report of a missing person. Albany resident, David Winter, age 63, was reported to have left his residence in his vehicle without explanation and had not returned.
On the evening of July 7, 2025, Linn County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle located on Bureau of Land Management land near Snow Peak. The reporting party stated that he had found a vehicle on a secluded logging road and believed it might be associated with a missing person case reported to the Albany Police Department.
Deputies responded and confirmed the vehicle belongs to David Winter. Winter was not with the vehicle when the deputies arrived, and his current whereabouts are unknown. The vehicle has since been returned to the family.
The Linn County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) team was activated and has been tirelessly conducting a search operation around the vehicle for the last two days. This is a heavily wooded area, making search efforts difficult. The Linn County SAR team has been assisted by SAR teams from the Lane and Benton County Sheriff’s Offices, Region 3 K9 search units, and the U.S. Army National Guard, which is assisting with aerial searches via helicopter. Unfortunately, Mr. Winter was not located.
Anyone with information about David’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Albany Police Department at 541-917-7680 and reference case number 25-03775.
Albany Police would like to thank the Linn County Sherrif’s Office, the devoted SAR teams, K-9 units and the U.S. Army National Guard for their help in this investigation.
Junction City Missing Person Located Deceased in Vehicle Crash
On July 7th at about 1 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded with Junction City Police officers to the scene of a single-vehicle fatal crash in the 91300 block of Territorial Highway, south of Cheshire. Investigation determined the crash had likely occurred several days before. The vehicle, a 2006 Chevy Malibu, was approximately 30 feet down an embankment in dense vegetation.
The deceased driver was identified as Mary Ann Snoddy, 62, of Junction City. Several days before the crash was discovered, Snoddy had been reported missing to Junction City Police, who were still actively investigating the case. LCSO Case #25-3213
Cottage Grove Woman’s Alleged Killer Indicted by Grand Jury
It’s been more than a year after the murder of a young Cottage Grove woman. Her alleged killer has been indicted by a grand jury with an additional charge added.
Court documents show that Anthony Wesley Tyrrell was indicted July 2 with second-degree murder, first-degree abuse of a corpse and a new crime: unlawful possession of a short-barreled shotgun.
Police have not said how Rozaleena Rasmussen was killed, but the gun charge says Tyrrell was in possession of it between June 5 and July 9, 2024. Rasmussen was killed June 5 2024. Tyrrell has waived his right to a speedy trial and remains in the Lane County Jail. His trial is currently scheduled for December.
Rasmussen had been reported missing shortly before her body was found in the Cottage Grove area. Tyrrell was then the subject of a nationwide manhunt. He was captured in October in the Portland area after an incident at a grocery store.
The Oregon Jamboree Set For Final Year of Music Festival in August
The Sweet Home Economic Development Group (SHEDG) Board of Directors confirmed that the 34th annual event, scheduled for August 1-3, will mark the end of an era for this beloved music festival in Sweet Home.
“Even with widespread community support and volunteers, the changing and increasing economic realities of running a music festival unfortunately no longer serve our mission to support rural economic development in the Willamette Valley. ” We will see you at Sweet Home in August for one final celebration and country music festival, August 1-3, 2025! MORE INFO: https://oregonjamboree.com
Free repair services coming to Cottage Grove, Florence & Oakridge with new ’Fix-It Booths’
Waste Wise Lane County, a part of Lane County Waste Management, is excited to announce a new initiative to bring free repair services to rural communities through “Fix-It Booths.”
Residents near Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge can now bring their broken household items to scheduled events and work with volunteer fixers to get them repaired—free of charge.
The booths will run from now through early fall.
Unlike larger Fix-It Fairs, which feature multiple repair experts at a single event, the Fix-It Booth model will offer a single fixer at a time, allowing for more frequent repair opportunities. This approach ensures rural communities have ongoing access to repair services, reducing waste and saving residents money.
Event Details
- Where: Cottage Grove, Florence & Oakridge Farmers Markets. See schedules and locations at fixitlanecounty.org/calendar.
- Cost: Free
- What to bring: Small household items in need of repair (e.g., clothing, small appliances, electronics, etc.) Please visit fixitlanecounty.org/calendar for specifics before attending.
Since 2023, Lane County has hosted five Fix-It Fairs, serving hundreds of residents and diverting countless items from landfills. However, rural communities have expressed a need for more frequent repair opportunities. The new Rural Fix-It Booth Project addresses this gap by providing consistent, accessible repair services where they’re needed most.
“We’re thrilled to expand our repair services through this innovative model,” said Jeff Orlandini, Waste Management Division manager. “By setting up at local markets and events, we can help more people fix instead of replace, keeping usable items out of the waste stream and supporting sustainable habits.”
In addition to the Fix-It Booths, Lane County will also host a traditional Fix-It Fair in Springfield later this year on September 21.
For more information, visit FixItLaneCounty.org/calendar or follow Waste Wise Lane County on social media.
About Waste Wise Lane County
Waste Wise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.
AARP Oregon – Eugene! Join us at the Campbell Center for a community BBQ honoring the 90th anniversary of Social Security.
August 14, 2025 | 4:30-6:30pm | Register today! https://events.aarp.org/…/64641620-3c28-4aaa…/summary
This year marks the 90th anniversary of Social Security — one of the most significant achievements in our nation’s history. For generations, Social Security has provided a foundation of financial stability for millions of Americans.
Here in Oregon, more than one in five residents — 927,847 people — receive Social Security payments.
Online Fraud – Rental/Real Estate Scams
In September 2022, we sent out information after several reports by individuals who rented apartments or homes, paying a deposit and often first month’s rent, only to find the property they rented was not actually available. The person who placed the advertisement was not the home’s owner or the property manager of the apartment. The best way to find a property will be on that property website directly, not a third-party website.
This scam is rearing its ugly head again and this is a good time to remind everyone about this type of scam.
How to avoid rental or real estate scams (Information from FTC)
How Rental Scams Work – Scammers know that finding the right apartment or vacation rental can be hard work, and a seemingly good deal is hard to pass up. They’ve been known to game some vacation rental websites and bulletin boards. The take-away: when you’re looking for a rental, it’s caveat renter — renter beware.
If it’s too good to be true, it’s not true. Do your due diligence; physically tour the apartment or home before you rent. If you are renting in a new city, research the property management company and call the different numbers provided and make sure you are talking to that company, and not a scammer.
Hijacked Ads- Some scammers hijack a real rental or real estate listing by changing the email address or other contact information and placing the modified ad on another site. The altered ad may even use the name of the person who posted the original ad. In other cases, scammers have hijacked the email accounts of property owners on reputable vacation rental websites.
Phantom Rentals – Other rip-off artists make up listings for places that aren’t for rent or don’t exist, and try to lure you in with the promise of low rent, or great amenities. Their goal is to get your money before you find out. Often, they target people by placing Craig’s List Ads advertising apartments or homes for rent at a low price. They ask for a deposit and / or 1st month’s rent via online means such as Zelle or Paypal, or wiring the money.
Signs of a Scam – Being savvy when you’re in search of a rental is well worth the effort. Here are some signs you may be dealing with a scam:
They tell you to wire money – This is the surest sign of a scam. There’s never a good reason to wire money to pay a security deposit, application fee, first month’s rent, or vacation rental fee. That’s true even if they send you a contract first. Wiring money is the same as sending cash — once you send it, you have no way to get it back.
They want a security deposit or first month’s rent before you’ve met or signed a lease – It’s never a good idea to send money to someone you’ve never met in person for an apartment you haven’t seen. If you can’t visit an apartment or house yourself, ask someone you trust to go and confirm that it’s for rent, and that it is what was advertised. In addition to setting up a meeting, do a search on the owner and listing. If you find the same ad listed under a different name, that’s a clue it may be a scam.
They say they’re out of the country – But they have a plan to get the keys into your hands. It might involve a lawyer or an “agent” working on their behalf. Some scammers even create fake keys. Don’t send money to them overseas. If you can’t meet in person, see the apartment, or sign a lease before you pay, keep looking. What if the rental itself is overseas? Paying with a credit card or through a reputable vacation rental website with its own payment system are your safest bets.
They are not physically present at a showing – There have been several reports of people who do the entire transaction online, up to and including showing up at an apartment where they are given a code to enter the building and actually tour the apartment. If you are renting an apartment, make sure you meet with the property manager or company representative in person to look at the apartment.
How to Report Scams – If you find yourself the target of a rental scam, report it to your local law enforcement agency and to the FTC. Contact the website where the ad was posted, too.
It’s Been Five Years Since Fauna Frey from Lane County Vanished Without A Trace In The Mountains Of Josephine County
It’s been five years since the disappearance of a Lane County Woman, who was last seen in Grants Pass.
Back in June of 2020, Fauna Frey disappeared. Police said the 45-year-old left her home in Dexter to drive to Grants Pass to visit her brother’s friend after her brother had recently passed away. The last place she was seen was at the Big 5 in Grants Pass. Investigators said her car was found in the Galice area months later.
The circumstances of Fauna’s disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved.
Fauna’s disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, including Nowhere to be Found, Here One Minute, Gone the Next, and Detective Perspective, each trying to fill the silence left by law enforcement. New listeners continue to discover her story, hoping a fresh set of eyes or a single loose memory might be the key to finding Fauna.
Have Information on Fauna Frey? Please Speak Up!
If you know anything, no matter how small, please contact:
- Josephine County Sheriff’s Office
- Tip line: (541) 359-5638
- Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com
Currrently there is a $50,000 CASH REWARD for information leading to the location of Fauna Frey. LARGE CASH REWARDS are being offered for any other relevant information, such as any objects that could be identified as Fauna’s, i.e. her wallet, keys, or Indian/Buffalo .999 silver bullion coins.
Find Fauna Frey Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132
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.
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
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
East Albany Lions Club Announces 2025 Memorial Golf Tournament at Trysting Tree
The East Albany Lions Club will host its annual Memorial Golf Tournament on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Trysting Tree Golf Club in Corvallis, Oregon. The event begins with an 8:30 AM shotgun start and invites golfers from across the region to participate in a day of competition, community, and charitable impact.
This four-person team scramble tournament is open to all skill levels. Team registration is $500, and sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals who wish to show their support.
Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that all Oregonians have access to vital vision and hearing services. OLSHF programs include vision screenings, hearing aids, mobile health clinics, and direct assistance for those in need. More information about the Foundation is available at www.olshf.org.
Participants will enjoy 18 holes of golf on a scenic course, on-course contests, raffle prizes, and food and refreshments throughout the event.
Event Details
- Event: East Albany Lions Club 2025 Memorial Golf Tournament
- Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
- Time: 8:30 AM Shotgun Start
- Location: Trysting Tree Golf Club, Corvallis, OR
- Cost: $500 per 4-person team
- Beneficiary: Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) – olshf.org
- Contact for Registration/Sponsorship: Steve Reinhart – steve.reinhart@comcast.net
Community members, golfers, and supporters are encouraged to register early to secure their spot and help expand access to critical sight and hearing services across Oregon.
Burrito Brigade needs to expand so we may better serve the food challenged and the best option is to buy our own building.
Waste To Taste
· 
We’re 67% of the way there 
Can you help us reach our fundraising goal?We’re in the process of buying a new building—and with your help, we can renovate it into a space that stores more rescued food, serves more people, and becomes a true hub for nourishment, connection, and dignity. Every dollar brings us closer.
https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse… Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org
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.
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/pantries It’s a simple act with a big impact. Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org
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.
Complimentary summer meals are provided for children in need throughout the state, including at camps and various programs.
The Summer Food Service Program is an initiative by the Oregon Department of Education aimed at addressing the gap that students encounter when free school meals are not accessible. Foster children, those receiving SNAP benefits, and participants in other programs are eligible for complimentary meals at registered summer programs. — To find a list of locations, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.
U.S. Border Czar Says He Will Ramp Up ICE Enforcement in Portland Claiming Staff Safety Concerns
Multiple people were arrested on the Fourth of July outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in Portland, The Oregonian reported Monday.
White House border czar Tom Homan said a visit and increased enforcement are necessary, as he believes Portland is “out of control.” and insists that threats persist against the Portland office.
“Our support staff, clerical staff, administrative staff — they’re not trained law enforcement officers. And you would think the local Portland PD would protect them when they’re leaving work and driving to their home and being followed by these anarchists. But Portland PD doesn’t assist, and we’re going to ramp up enforcement personnel there,” Homan said.
Portland police officers are not getting involved because they are ordered not to respond, as Portland is a sanctuary city.
Homan plans to visit the Portland office within the next five or six days to show staff they’re not alone and facilitate an extra layer of security.
“The president has your back. Secretary’s got your back. I’ve got your back,” he added. “We’ll send whatever resources we need to send here to number one, do the job that the president wants you to do, and I want you to do, and give you enough resources out here to protect you and your families.”
With 22 people facing federal charges from anti-ICE protests in Portland, Homan said the U.S. Attorney’s Office is “fully engaged” and is pushing a “zero tolerance policy.”
“You can protest ICE, you have that First Amendment right. You can hate ICE. You can scream and yell at them. You cannot support them. However, you can’t cross that line,” Homan added. “You can’t cross the line of knowingly harboring, concealing an illegal alien from ICE — that’s a felony. And you certainly can’t put your hands on an ICE officer.”
“If we can prove someone impedes our law enforcement efforts, we will seek prosecution of the U.S. Attorney,” Homan responded. “Zero tolerance, I don’t care who you are. And remember the left said for four years, no one’s above the law. President Trump isn’t above the law. But guess what? Neither are they. You impede law enforcement, you impede ICE from doing their job — we will seek prosecution. Zero tolerance.” (SOURCE)
During a Portland City Council meeting, resident voiced their concerns about ICE activity and demanded city leaders rescind a permit for operation of the ICE facility.
People who testified included those who have attended anti-ICE protests on South Macadam Avenue over the past month, as well as people who live nearby or have children who attend the school next to the facility, the Cottonwood School.
Some people demanded that Portland city leaders rescind the permit for the ICE facility to operate. Others said they wanted the city government to stop federal agents from using tear gas during protests, which impacts local homes and the Cottonwood School. Another common sentiment was for the Portland City Council to uphold its sanctuary city status.
The testimony occurred during a Portland Community and Public Safety Committee Meeting in the afternoon, where a public hearing was held on the sanctuary city status. The Portland City Council agenda specified that the “committee has no role in land use or permitting processes at the City.”
Nevertheless, Portland City Councilor Sameer Kanal seemed to indicate that rescinding the permit may be possible since there are allegations that ICE violated the terms of the permit.
“There’s a broad statement about not posing a safety risk. The use of chemical munitions is a safety risk,” Kanal said. “The one that’s more specific is the, the rule against longer than 12-hour detentions or overnight detentions. There’s allegations of that has — multiple times — been broken.”
Kanal said if the allegations are found to be true, they could possibly revoke the permit. However, that can only take place after an investigation plays out.
The discussion about the sanctuary status took place in downtown Portland’s City Hall. Two miles south of there, at the ICE facility itself, there was still a steady presence of protesters.
The city has posted anti-camping signs outside the federal facility in South Portland, as it has been commonplace for a small number of protesters to camp out overnight for the past month.
During some of the protests outside the ICE facility on various nights since early June, violence has occasionally broken out, including in the form of property destruction and graffiti. Some people were arrested and accused of assaulting federal agents. It’s also been common for federal agents to use tear gas during these demonstrations.
This all comes as the Rose City has come under scrutiny in the national spotlight from some federal officials. In addition, Tom Homan, the U.S. border czar, told reporters on Monday that ICE agents would be tripling down in sanctuary cities, fueling local pushback in Portland. (SOURCE)
Staying Informed During a Communications Outage: Best Practices for the Public
Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it’s vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:
Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio
- Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
- Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. Tip: Pre-tune your radio to your local emergency broadcast station (e.g., OPB in Oregon or NOAA frequencies).
Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone
- Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
- WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if cell service is out, WEA alerts will not be delivered. This is why having backup methods like a radio is essential.
Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power
- Charge phones, power banks, laptops, and rechargeable flashlights before fire weather conditions worsen.
- Consider solar-powered chargers or car chargers as backups.
- If you are sheltering in place, a generator (solar or gas powered) is helpful.
Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance
- Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
- Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” Download your area in advance so you can navigate even if cell towers or internet access are down.
- When in doubt, call 511 or visit the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
- Don’t wait for a notification—if you feel unsafe, evacuate early.
Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info
- Phone numbers of family, neighbors, and local emergency contacts.
- Address of evacuation shelters, veterinary services (for pets/livestock), and medical facilities.
- Your own emergency plan, including meeting locations.
- Have copies of vital documents in your go-bag and take video of your property (inside and out) for insurance claims later.
If Calling 9-1-1 Over Wi-Fi or Satellite, Check Your Location Settings
If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.
- Update this emergency address when you travel or relocate—especially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
- Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you are—include your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.
Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage
- Register for OR-Alert and your county’s local alert system.
- Follow your local emergency management officials’ and bookmark resources like: wildfire.oregon.gov.
Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps
- Know the three levels of evacuation:
- Level 1 – Be Ready
- Level 2 – Be Set
- Level 3 – GO NOW
- If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasing—take action even if you haven’t received an alert.
Be Your Own Info Network
- Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities.
- Post printed signs with updates for those passing by.
In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points.
Support and Restoration in Progress
To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. *** Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.
Reconnect When Service Returns
- Once communications are restored, check official websites:
- Oregon.gov/oem
- Your county emergency management page
- TripCheck.com for road conditions
- Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.
Prepare for Delays in Restoration
- Communication may come back in phases. Damage to fiber lines or cell towers can take time to repair.
- Continue using backup methods and stay alert for updates via radio or in-person notices.
Final Tip:
In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.
Lincoln County Fire Defense Board Deploys Task Force to Elk Fire in Klamath County
The Lincoln County Fire Defense Board has mobilized a specialized wildfire Task Force to assist in battling the Elk Fire, currently burning in Klamath County. The deployment was made at the request of the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) as part of the state’s coordinated wildfire response under the Emergency Conflagration Act.
The Task Force 26 departed Lincoln County late Wednesday afternoon, July 9, expected to arrive at staging by 9:00 PM tonight and, includes personnel and equipment from the following agencies:
• Depoe Bay Fire District
• North Lincoln Fire & Rescue
• Central Oregon Coast Fire & Rescue
• East Lincoln County Fire & Rescue • Siletz Valley Fire District
• Clackamas County Fire District
The Elk Fire, sparked by dry lightning earlier this week, has burned thousands of acres in southern Oregon, prompting multiple evacuation notices and drawing a significant response from state and local fire agencies. Firefighters are working around the clock to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.
The Task Force includes a strike team of engines, command personnel, and support staff, with an initial deployment period of up to 14 days, subject to fire conditions and resource needs.
This mobilization is part of Oregon’s Mutual Aid System, which ensures timely support between counties and regions during large-scale incidents.
Oregon Department of Forestry deploys incident management team to Southwest Oregon
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has deployed Incident Management Team 3 (IMT 3) to the ODF Southwest Oregon District to assist district personnel following last night’s lightning.
Over the last 24 hours the ODF Southwest Oregon District has confirmed over 72 known fires across Jackson and Josephine counties and been actively engaged across the board, straining all resources in the district. ODF IMT 3 will support the district by relieving the local resources and allowing them to focus on suppressing smaller fires and initial attack on new fires.
“Our firefighters have been working around the clock to keep these fires as small as we can, but resources are becoming limited, especially with other incidents across Oregon and the country competing for the same emergency response professionals,” ODF Southwest Oregon District Forester Dan Quinones said. “Bringing in ODF IMT 3 will allow us to regain our strength locally, handing some of these fires off to firefighters who hold the same drive to take them off the map as quickly as possible. Protecting our communities and putting out fires remain our top priorities.”
ODF resources continue to work with federal partners at the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest and Bureau of Land Management (BLM), as well as local and county structural fire departments. This teamwork is a direct reflection of the complete and coordinated fire response system in southern Oregon.
The team will in brief at 12 p.m., July 9, and take command of the complex at 6 p.m.
High fire danger is currently in effect on ODF-protected land in Jackson and Josephine counties. As firefighters work to extinguish these natural fire starts, help prevent new human-caused fires from sparking by following all regulations currently in place: https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions/. Click or tap if you trust this link.”>https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions/.
For current fire information, please follow ODF Southwest Oregon’s Facebook page.
𝙇𝙄𝙂𝙃𝙏𝙉𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙀𝙎 𝙈𝙊𝙍𝙉𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙊𝙋𝙀𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉𝘼𝙇 𝙐𝙋𝘿𝘼𝙏𝙀: Dave Brown, an Operations Section Chief with ODF IMT 3 provides a current update on the lightning fires for Friday, July 11. VIDEO: https://www.facebook.com/ODFSouthwest/videos/1927850474682478
Fire Season INFO
As of July 1, all Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. This means that to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, fire restrictions may be in place where you live or at a destination you plan to visit or recreate.
Here are some links regarding fire info for mainly Oregon.These links are very important and are updated daily.
* Northwest Coordination Centerhttps://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/fire_info.php…
* Central Oregon Fire Info Bloghttps://centraloregonfire.org/
* Lane County/Oregon Fire Updates – FB Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/650665385833845
* Oregon Fires 2025 FB pagehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1481912815460351
* South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership – SCOFMPhttps://www.facebook.com/SCOFMPFIREINFO
* US Forest Service – Deschuteshttps://www.facebook.com/deschutesnationalforest
* Rouge Weather – THE DAILY WILDLAND FIRE BRIEFINGhttps://www.facebook.com/RogueWeatherNow…
* Wildfire Trackerhttps://projects.oregonlive.com/wildfires/map
* Watch Duty websitehttps://www.watchduty.org/
* Watch Duty FB Page –https://www.facebook.com/watchdutyapp
* Pacific Aerial Firefighting Aircrafthttps://www.facebook.com/groups/344050713692737/
“We have already experienced several large fires in the state this year and anticipate fire behavior to be progressively more volatile. RIGHT NOW is the time to practice fire prevention and preparedness,” said Michael Curran, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Fire Protection Division Chief.
As we move into the Fourth of July and the holiday weekend, it’s important to remember that forests and fireworks DO NOT MIX. Private use of fireworks is not allowed on forest land, which includes all private lands protected by ODF and all other state and federal forest lands in Oregon. Remember to check any additional city and county firework restrictions as well.
Curran said, “Prevention is our number one tool to reduce property loss, firefighting costs, and risk to the lives of our firefighters. We can’t prevent lightning fires, but we can prevent human-caused fires.”
Now is the time to brush up on your wildfire prevention knowledge. Tips include:
- Know before you go. Campfires may be banned or only allowed in approved campgrounds.
- Make sure your campfire is cool to the touch before going to sleep or leaving your site. Don’t forget to Drown, Stir, Repeat.
- Backyard debris burning either requires a burn permit during fire season or is prohibited altogether. If you burned earlier this spring, go back and check on your debris burn site to make sure nothing reignites due to the heat.
- Don’t flick a cigarette onto the ground. It may be just enough to start a fire.
- Don’t park or idle over dried grass.
- Don’t drag tow chains.
- Check local restrictions and fire danger levels.
ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state, and federal land in Oregon from wildfire. Fire season is declared at the local level when conditions reach a point where the risk of a fire starting and spreading becomes clear. This year, the Southwest Oregon district was the first to declare on June 1, and the North Cascade District was the last to declare on July 1. For more information on how you can help prevent wildfires, visit keeporegongreen.org.
The Imagination Library of Oregon Introduces a Bilingual English/Spanish Book Option!
Families enrolling children in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Oregon can now choose between the Standard English Book Collection and the new Bilingual English/Spanish Book Collection. They can also select their preferred language for communication during the enrollment process.
In June, families already enrolled in the Imagination Library received an email announcing the new Bilingual English/Spanish book collection option, along with instructions on how to make the switch. Books from the new collection are expected to begin arriving in mailboxes in August.
“Regardless of the language a child knows, the joy of reading should be available for every young learner,” Governor Kotek said. “The expansion of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library with a bilingual book collection throws the door open to that opportunity much wider. This will help improve our literacy outcomes and make sure every Oregon student, regardless of where they live or where they come from, has the opportunity to develop a love of reading before they ever step into a classroom.”
The introduction of the Bilingual Collection has been eagerly anticipated since the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library launched in May of 2024. Thanks to funding from the State of Oregon, through the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), and 57 community organizations around the state, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is free for all families with children from birth to age five and available in all counties in Oregon.
“Literacy is not confined to a single language—it is nurtured through the languages children speak at home, the stories they hear, and the books they read with their families,” said Alyssa Chatterjee, DELC Director. “By offering culturally responsive and bilingual books, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Program honors the richness of every child’s linguistic and cultural identity. The addition of a Spanish language book option means more families will have access to stories in the language that connects generations. I’m thrilled knowing that for those who choose this option, bilingual books will soon arrive in their mailbox—opening doors to literacy, learning, and a lifelong love of reading.”
Introducing books to children at an early age not only sets the stage to foster a love of reading, it also prepares them to be successful in school and life. The new bilingual collection will enable the Imagination Library to connect with more children and families across the state, significantly broadening the positive literacy impacts for young Oregonians by helping more children build personal libraries than ever before.
“Every child should grow up with stories that reflect their language, culture, and identity. Multilingual kids have a superpower that we should nurture and celebrate,” emphasized Representative Ben Bowman, Chief Sponsor of the legislation that made the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library in Oregon a reality. “This new bilingual collection shows our state’s commitment to making sure every child has the tools to learn, grow, and thrive.”
The Bilingual Collection was first piloted in California in 2023 and rolled-out to five more states in 2024. Oregon is excited to be among the 16 states added in 2025. States that now have access to the Bilingual Collection include Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and West Virginia. For a full list of the 2025 bilingual book collection visit imaginationlibrary.com/usa/book-list.
The Imagination Library of Oregon is free to families. Children can be registered as early as birth to receive new, high-quality, age-appropriate books addressed to them in the mail each month until their fifth birthday. To learn more or to enroll your child, visit www.imaginationlibrary.com/oregon. For the latest Oregon specific content, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
About Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library -Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. The flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has gifted over 280 million free books in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and The Republic of Ireland. This is achieved through funding shared by The Dollywood Foundation and Local Community and State Partners. The Imagination Library mails more than 3 million high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children’s homes each month. Each child enrolled in the program receives one book per month from birth to age five – at no cost to families. Dolly envisioned creating a lifelong love of reading and inspiring children to Dream More, Learn More, Care More, Be More.
The program’s impact has been widely researched, and results demonstrate its positive impact on early childhood development and literacy skills. Penguin Random House is the exclusive publisher of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. For more information, please visit imaginationlibrary.com.
As temperatures rise, Oregon OSHA reminds employers to safeguard workers against the dangers of heat illness
As temperatures rise and the risk of heat illness in the workplace increases, the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) reminds employers to follow requirements designed to help protect workers from the hazards of extreme heat. The division offers free resources to help employers comply with requirements.
Under Oregon’s heat illness prevention rule, employers must implement protective measures, including adequate water, rest, shade, acclimatization (gradual adaptation to working in the heat), communication and training, and emergency plans. The rule applies to workplaces whenever an employee is working and the heat index equals or exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. More provisions apply when the heat index exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
“Employers need to take the dangers of high heat seriously by planning ahead, engaging their employees about the hazards, and following the heat rule’s provisions,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA.
The heat illness prevention requirements apply across industries and where employers provide housing as a condition of employment. Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, workers have a right to a safe and healthy workplace and the right to raise concerns free of retaliation. Under the law, employers must maintain safe and healthy working conditions.
Oregon OSHA urges employers to refresh their knowledge of the requirements:
- Key requirements for general workplaces – English/Spanish
- Key requirements for employer-provided housing – English/Spanish
All heat illness prevention resources are available on Oregon OSHA’s A-to-Z topic index page. They include a video training in English and Spanish that satisfies certain training elements of the heat rule.
Oregon OSHA also offers: Consultation services – provides free and confidential help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training. The services involve no fault, no citations, and no penalties.
- Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
- Field offices
- Online
- Email: consult.web@dcbs.oregon.gov
Technical staff – helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites
- Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
- Online
- Email: tech.web@dcbs.oregon.gov
The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, which includes Oregon OSHA as a division, maintains the Multicultural Communications Program that provides outreach to communities with limited English proficiency. That outreach encompasses information about on-the-job safety and health. —- The Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers provides help with understanding workplace safety and health rights, and workers’ compensation rights.
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Signs Agreement with Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed Friday, June 27, by ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels and Tribal Council Chairman Delores Pigsley, with Tribal government leaders and representatives, Tribal veterans and ODVA staff gathered to commemorate the historic partnership. The formal signing was hosted at ODVA’s headquarters in Salem.
The agreement will pave the way for the establishment of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians’ first Tribal Veterans Service Officer (TVSO), which will be jointly funded by ODVA and the Tribe to serve Siletz veterans and their families.
“Oregon’s Tribal veterans have long served with honor and distinction, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the care and recognition they have earned,” said Dr. Daniels. “By partnering with the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, we are committing to a future where Siletz veterans are served in a way that honors their stories, their service, and their sovereign identity. We’re proud to walk alongside the Tribe in building something that will truly make a difference in the lives of their veterans and families.”
“I am excited for the future of our honored Tribal veterans and the opportunity this brings to them,” said Chairman Pigsley. “Not only to support them but to help advocate for them. This memorandum with the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is more than a collaboration or a partnership. It’s a commitment to honoring and empowering those who have served our nation. Their deep-rooted connection to the veteran community and unwavering dedication to their well-being make them a trusted and invaluable partner.”
This Memorandum of Understanding is ODVA’s sixth with Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes, including the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians and, most recently, the Coquille Indian Tribe in May.
Oregon’s statewide network of County and Tribal Veteran Service Offices are collaborative partnerships between the state and counties, or Tribal governments and deliver free local access to veteran benefits for veterans and their families.
Tribal Veteran Service Officers (TVSOs) are trained by ODVA and then accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs through a series of regular trainings facilitated by both agencies. TVSOs provide a wide variety of benefits and services to veterans and their family members, including the development and submission of claims to the federal VA for earned veteran benefits.
To learn more about veteran benefits, resources and services near you, or to schedule a session with your local Veteran Service Officer, visit the website of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs at www.oregon.gov/odva/Services/Pages/Tribal-Veteran-Services.aspx.
Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.
Describing it as a “disaster of a year”, farmers in Oregon report that the cherry crop is underperforming this season.
Two years prior, Oregon cherry growers were optimistic that an above-average yield and innovative marketing strategies would put an end to a series of detrimental seasons primarily caused by snow and heat that severely impacted the delicate crop. However, the cherry market collapsed that year, resulting in significant losses for Oregon cherry farmers, who subsequently received federal assistance.
This year may present similar difficulties for those cultivating Oregon’s fourth most valuable fruit, following wine grapes, blueberries, and pears. Numerous cherry farmers commenced the summer harvest last month facing a labor shortage, as farmworkers postponed their travel to Oregon due to concerns over immigration enforcement. For instance, Chandler mentioned that he had only half of his usual workforce of 120 in June. Nevertheless, even those who began with a full staff encountered tough market conditions, with cherries yielding minimal profit, if any.
Farmers are concerned that this season could have enduring effects on the viability of Oregon’s sweet cherry industry.
Lawsuit Aims to Protect Oregon’s Crater Lake Newt From Extinction
The Center for Biological Diversity sued the Trump administration today for delaying critically needed Endangered Species Act protections for the Crater Lake newt. The newts live only in Oregon’s Crater Lake, and their population has crashed to as few as 13 animals in recent years because of the introduction of signal crayfish and warming lake temperatures from climate change.
“Crater Lake newts are on the brink of extinction and if the government waits any longer to protect them it’ll be really tough for these imperiled amphibians to recover,” said Chelsea Stewart-Fusek, an endangered species attorney at the Center. “These tiny newts are part of what makes Crater Lake so special to Oregonians and the hundreds of thousands of people who visit every year. They’re absolutely worth protecting.”
Following a Center legal petition in 2023, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that the Crater Lake newt may qualify for protection under the Endangered Species Act. But the Service has yet to enact any protections for the species, and the Trump administration’s cuts to federal agencies will make it harder to recover imperiled wildlife and maintain Crater Lake National Park’s ecosystems.
Crater Lake newts, also known as Mazama newts, are a subspecies of the more widely distributed rough-skinned newt. While the rough-skinned newt produces a potent neurotoxin to deter predators, the Crater Lake newt is adapted to being at the top of the lake’s aquatic food chain and lacks any predator defense mechanisms. (READ MORE) The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with more than 1.8 million members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places.
Oregon leaders, anti-hunger advocates warn of ‘deeply alarming’ SNAP cuts in GOP megabill
State agency in charge of food benefit payments still currently assessing any potential changes
Oregon will see rising rates of hunger and costly administrative backlogs due to the recently passed GOP megabill that cuts federal food aid to states, according to Oregon leaders and advocates aiming to blunt the fallout of what one Oregon Congresswoman called the “single largest rollback of food aid in American history.”
The GOP tax and spending bill, which Trump signed into law on Friday, slashes over $186 billion in spending over the next decade on the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, or SNAP. The federal SNAP program helps more than 700,000 Oregonians afford groceries, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and it has been around as a permanent program since the mid-1960s when then-President Lyndon Johnson signed it into law as part of his declared “war on poverty.”
Gov. Tina Kotek on Thursday slammed the Republican bill as a tax giveaway to the richest Americans, directing state agencies to assess any policy changes necessary to ameliorate the loss of federal support for aid to low-income Oregonians. The state Department of Human Services, which helps administer the SNAP program in Oregon, estimates that the reduction in SNAP funding from the federal government will cost the agency an additional $425 million per year, which could potentially lead to layoffs and scaled back services at SNAP offices across the state.
“The federal budget shifts unsustainable costs to the state and will take food off the table of Oregonians,” department spokesman Jake Sunderland said in an emailed statement. “These cuts directly undermine the health and stability of our communities.”
The White House argues that the bill protects SNAP by combating alledged fraud and encouraging “able bodied adults” to work and earn more income, saving the program for what it says are “the truly needy.” The Republican legislation makes more than half a dozen changes to major benefits in the existing SNAP programs based on factors like immigration and work status.
“We know that SNAP benefits typically last an average family less than about three weeks out of the month. That’s why we see people who need both SNAP and our food pantries,” said Matt Newell-Ching, a lobbyist and policy manager for the Oregon Food Bank. “This is going to be a real challenge for our network to absorb.”
Oregon’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), is making updates to its food package today to improve nutrition and broaden choices for families throughout the state.
The revised WIC food package incorporates the most recent nutrition science and is in accordance with globally recognized healthy dietary patterns. This represents the third revision of WIC foods in the program’s 50-year commitment to enhancing family and child health. The previous update to the WIC foods occurred in 2009, which introduced enhancements such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
The current update builds upon that advancement by increasing access to nutritious foods for families across Oregon. There will be more fruits and vegetables, now including fresh-cut herbs. A broader selection of protein and plant-based options will be available, featuring fish choices for all children and adults; a greater variety of cheese types, including sliced, string, and shredded; new yogurt brands with lower added sugar; new plant-based milk options; and new nut and seed butters.
Expanded choices for whole-grain bread will include 100% whole wheat buns, bagels, pita, and naan, along with new gluten-free, whole-grain bread options. WIC now provides a dozen whole grains, including quinoa, teff, corn masa flour, and barley, among others.
South Beach to host annual sandcastle competition in Newport July 26
NEWPORT— South Beach State Park will host its annual sandcastle competition 10 a.m. to noon July 26 in Newport.
Anyone can compete as an individual or as a team for a chance to win first, second or third place. Prizes include baskets with an assortment of beach-themed prizes with the first-place basket stocked with four tickets to the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Visitors interested in competing can sign up in person starting at 9:30 a.m. July 26 on the beach next to the South Beach day-use parking lot.
“It’s a great opportunity for visitors to share their sand sculpting skills and connect with park volunteers and rangers,” said Ranger Patrick Newhall.
Last year, 20 teams with a total of 65 competitors vied for the top spots. And as many as 190 visitors watched the sandcastles take shape. For more information, please contact South Beach State Park at (541) 867-7451 Ext. 0.
Ritz cracker sandwiches recalled over packaging error that could cause life-threatening allergic reactions to peanuts
Some Ritz cracker sandwiches are being pulled from store shelves nationwide after a labeling mix-up that could pose a serious and even life-threatening risk to people with peanut allergies.
Mondelēz Global LLC, the manufacturer behind the snack brand, has issued a voluntary recall of several varieties of Ritz Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, some individually wrapped packages inside may be incorrectly labeled as the cheese variety, despite actually containing peanut butter crackers.
While the outer boxes are correctly labeled and include allergen information stating the product contains peanuts, the individual wrappers inside do not.
“People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts may risk serious or life-threatening allergic reactions by consuming this product,” the FDA said in its recall alert.
The affected products were sold nationwide and include specific 8-count, 20-count, and 40-count cartons of Ritz Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches, along with the 20-count RITZ Filled Cracker Sandwich Variety Pack.
The recalled items have “Best When used By” dates ranging from Nov. 1-9, 2025 and Jan. 2-22, 2026. Recalled products include:
- RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches (8-count, 11.4 oz.): Best by: Nov. 1–9, 2025, Plant code: AE
- RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches (20-count, 27.6 oz.): Best by: Nov. 1–9, 2025 and Jan. 2–22, 2026, Plant code: AE
- RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches (40-count, 55.2 oz.): Best by: Nov. 1–9, 2025 and Jan. 2–22, 2026, Plant code: AM
- RITZ Filled Cracker Sandwich Variety Pack (20-count, 27.3 oz.): Best by: Nov. 2–9, 2025, Plant code: RJ
The recalled Ritz cracker sandwiches were sold at Walmart stores in all 50 states, at Target and at other national retailers.
There have been no reported illnesses or injuries, as of now, according to the recall.
The manufacturer said it had discovered “that film packaging rolls used to package individually wrapped products containing peanut butter may contain defects due to a supplier error.”
Customers with peanut allergies are advised not to eat the affected products and to throw them away. More information is available at www.mondelezinternational.com or by calling 1-844-366-1171.
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.
Webinar series to honor 35 years of disability civil rights each week of July
— The public is invited to a series of free webinars featuring conversations with disabilities advocates, experts and influencers who will share the latest information on educational and employment access, challenging perceptions about disabilities, as well as how to remove barriers.
Topics by date are:
- July 8: Striving for educational access and equity for students with disabilities
- July 15: Working toward equal access employment for people with disabilities
- July 22: Hannah and Shane Burcaw, who host YouTube channel Squirmy and Grubs on changing perceptions about disabilities
- July 29: Oregon’s journey to accessibility: removing barriers
The free weekly webinar series is being hosted by Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC), Oregon Department of Human Services, Northwest ADA Center and Disability Rights Oregon in recognition and celebration of the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
“The Americans with Disabilities Act was a landmark victory in the fight for civil rights, laying the foundation for greater equity and independence. The anniversary of the Act is an opportunity to reflect on the progress we’ve made and to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and accessible Oregon for people with disabilities,” said Mark King, Chair of ODC. “We are grateful to our co-hosts for their partnership in presenting the upcoming webinar series. Their collaboration helps ensure we continue to educate, engage and advocate in ways that honor the spirit and impact of the ADA.”
The series will take place every Tuesday throughout July, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time, beginning July 8. The sessions are open to the public, and registration is now available through the event web page on Zoom.
The series will be accessible to people with disabilities and will be translated into Spanish. Captioning and American Sign Language interpretation will also be provided. For questions about accessibility for the webinar series, or to request an accommodation, contact egonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov“>OregonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov.
More information about the series, including presenter biographies and shareable flyers, will be shared on the Oregon Department of Human Services ADA event web page.
About the Oregon Disabilities Commission: The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations serving individuals with disabilities.
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
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
