Willamette Valley News, Friday 7/18 – Oregon Asian Celebration Saturday July 19th at Alton Baker Park, Forensic Dogs Search for Local Missing Persons & Other Local and Statewide News…

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

Friday, July 18, 2025

Willamette Valley Weather

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

Oregon Asian Celebration –Saturday July 19th at Alton Baker Park

  · Getting to the Asian Celebration Made Easy!Join us at Alton Baker Park on July 19, 2025, from 10am to 9pm for a full day of culture, community, and celebration! Location: Day Island Rd, Eugene, OR More info: asiancelebration.org/easy-ways-to-get-to-the-festival

Forensic dogs are searching this week in hopes of some sign for local missing persons

Candice Cooley is with Parrish Bryson and Tina Magnuson Bryson. This week has been quite the rollercoaster ride, but we’re all in this together, and that’s what truly matters. Dylan’s Legacy has organized a search effort to help these families find missing loved ones, and I can’t tell you how important it is to have people who understand and can offer support during these tough times, especially being through it myself.

We’re assisting many families here, and I’m incredibly honored that they’ve allowed us to help them find their missing loved ones. The Lane County Sheriff’s Office has been incredibly helpful in providing any assistance we need. Hank is having an amazing time, feeling like a part of the team and thinking he skills to contribute, besides moral support he does not. We’ll be sharing more pictures as we wrap up our searches on Saturday. Stay tuned for more updates!

Search Continues for Michael Bryson 5 Years Later Since Went Missing Near Hobo Campground

 · 1,805 days since Michael went missing. Thats 1,805 of agony for the family but they have not given up and neither will we. We briefed with the Sheriffs office yesterday and deployed 4 K9’s out today. We want to give this family some answers and will stand beside them until they get them.— with Parrish Bryson and Tina Magnuson Bryson.

Michael was last seen on August 5, 2020, when he attended a rave at a roadside campground known as Hobo Campground. It is located off Brice Creek Road just west of Champion Creek Road in South Lane County east of Dorena Lake. At around 4:30am that morning, Bryson reportedly wandered away from a group of friends in an unknown direction and has not been seen since.

His family reported him missing when he did not return home. Bryson left behind his camping gear. His phone had been powered off for several days. Lane County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue teams spent days at the scene but did not discover any sign of him. Bryson’s friends and family also assisted with the search. It’s now been a long agonizing 5 years for the family and friends of Michael Bryson, who have continued to search for him and hope something breaks soon.

Since then, his family and local authorities have conducted exhaustive searches, but no trace of Michael has been found. His parents, Tina and Parrish Bryson, have kept hope alive, continuing to search for answers and keep Michael’s story in the public eye.

REEL: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMJcMxMyBrS/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLj4S9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHvnhf7UaDX8S5_KghEdtUB9YH87Li-Z1tNUbAGBD08FSL5_GuuBA-2-Wu3f8_aem_d1Pne7m0o99MF5kMTGCdRg

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1180812175619844?hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen&multi_permalinks=2505923676442014

Michael Bryson Foundation – “This foundation was started after our son went missing in August of 2020. Our main purpose is to assist families when a loved one goes missing. Providing the tools and advice needed to create awareness and help bring them home.” https://michaelbrysonfoundation.com

The Michael Bryson 5 K Shuffle will be at Alton Baker Park in Eugene this year! August 2nd at 9 am — https://michaelbrysonfoundation.com/5k-shuffle-2025 You can walk, run or shuffle!

If anyone has information regarding Michael Bryson’s whereabouts or details related to his disappearance, they are urged to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office. Even the smallest lead could provide crucial information in solving this case. Please reach out to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at (541) 682-4150.

7/17/25 – LCSO Case #25-3368 – Lorane man arrested for murder

Lane Co. Sheriff’s Office – UPDATE   The deceased victim in this case was identified as Patricia Marie McSperitt, 56, of Lorane.  

On July 16th at about 6 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a shooting in the 28600 block of W. Hill Road, east of Lorane. Deputies located a victim at the location who was deceased. Detectives and deputies began searching for the suspect, identified as Ralph William McSperitt, 56, of Lorane.  

On July 17th at about 12:30 a.m., McSperitt was located in front of the Lane County Jail. Deputies and Eugene Police officers arrested McSperitt without further incident. He was lodged at the Lane County Jail on a charge of Murder in the 2nd Degree. Additional charges may be added.  

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending next of kin notification.   Thanks to the Oregon State Police, Cottage Grove Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Eugene Police Department, and Federal Bureau of Investigation for their assistance on this case.

We encourage you to follow these channels to stay informed. — Thank you for staying connected and for your continued support of the Corvallis School District.

Linn County Fair Rocking It

Top notch entertainment, concerts and fun family event now through Saturaday night!

Linn County Fair 3700 Knox Butte RD Albany

Scio Fire District ·  · At 10pm on Monday night, the Linn County 911 Dispatch Center received a 911 call from a homeowner on Larwood Drive stating that his shop was on fire.

The caller stated that he could hear things exploding in the shop and that there was another barn and a vehicle nearby. The dispatch center dispatched the Scio Fire District, along with mutual aid units from Lebanon, Albany, and Jefferson. Chief White responded directly from home in the district’s newly acquired brush rig and arrived within 14 minutes of the initial dispatch. Upon arrival, he found that the shop was well involved and beginning to collapse.

The fire had spread to nearby brush, trees, and dry grass and was also impinging on the nearby barn. Engine 91 arrived shortly after Chief White. A firefighter snapped this picture as they rolled up. As they exited their vehicles, a large, old growth cedar tree torched off and showered the firefighters with sparks and embers.

Once the ember shower subsided, the firefighters on Engine 91 worked the perimeter on the west side of the fire near the barn to contain it and keep it from spreading. Chief White used hoses off of his brush rig to attack the brush fire on the east side. Of particular concern in this area is that it is located at the base of Rodgers Mountain, which has large amounts of fuel and limited means of entry and egress.

Firefighters were able to quickly limit the spread of the fire and then concentrated on extinguishing the main body of fire. The bulk of the fire had been knocked down within a half hour, but crews continued to pour water on hotspots for a few hours. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The explosions were likely oxy/acetylene tanks and propane bottles that exploded prior to the fire district’s arrival.

Firefighters had extinguished the fire, returned to the station, and restored all of the gear by 1:30am. At 2am, 3 members rolled out in Brush 91 and headed to the Cram Fire near Madras with a task force from Linn County. They are among approximately 500 personnel attempting to control the fire, which is currently estimated to be 77,000 acres.

Pursuit Ends in Suicidal Male Taking His Life

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on July 15, 2025 at 8:41 p.m., Linn County Dispatch received a 911 call of a suspicious circumstance in the area of Washburn Heights Drive.  Washburn Heights Drive leads to the top of a hill that is frequented by the public for the view overlooking the Willamette Valley.  The caller reported a female lying in the road with blood on her head.

Deputies responded to the area and found an elderly female with blood on her face, hands, arms and knees. Deputies learned from witnesses her son, Oliver Mercer, 67 of Lebanon, was at the top of Washburn Heights Drive and reported to be suicidal.  Deputies began to drive up to the viewpoint at the top of the hill, when they encountered Mercer driving back down towards them. Deputies stopped and contacted Mercer in his vehicle and saw he had a bottle of alcohol between his legs.  Mercer then displayed a pistol and held it to his head.

Deputies began attempts at de-escalating the situation, which was overheard by several witnesses, but Mercer would not cooperate and drove away from the scene. Deputies and multiple other law enforcement agencies responded to the area in pursuit of Mercer. Mercer attempted to elude law enforcement, driving toward Lebanon, where he struck two law enforcement vehicles and continued to attempt to elude. With the help of Oregon State Police, Mercer’s vehicle was safely redirected to the ditch near the intersection of Denney School Road and Highway 34. As law enforcement began to surround Mercer, he fired one round to his head, resulting in life threatening injuries. Mercer was transported by paramedics to Corvallis Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center but died from his self-inflicted injuries.  Mercer’s mother was also transported to Lebanon Community Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Linn County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the event to include the initial report regarding the female, her injuries, and Mercer’s actions leading up to the incident. It’s likely additional witnesses were in the area and have information on this incident. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Scott Tennant (541) 967-3950.

Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Oregon State Police, Albany Police Department, Corvallis Police Department, Lebanon Police Department, Brownsville Rural Fire District and Lebanon Fire District.

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.

Lebanon firefighters contain challenging overnight blaze

At 1:28 this morning, Lebanon Fire District crews responded to a reported structure fire involving a double-wide manufactured home in the 600 block of Vaughan Lane. Upon arrival, the Battalion Chief noted light smoke showing and crews quickly performed a search of the residence, ensuring all occupants had safely evacuated.

The fire was located in the crawlspace and had extended into two bedrooms. The complexity of the fire was amplified due to its position between the joints of the two halves of the manufactured home, making suppression efforts particularly challenging. Fortunately, due to the quick notification by the occupants and rapid response of the fire district, the damage was contained to less than 10% of the house. Crews remained on scene for approximately 3 hours.

Albany Fire Department provided an ambulance for coverage of the district during the fire and Brownsville Fire Department provided an engine. No injuries were reported among the residents or firefighters. The cause of the fire appears to be electrical in nature, but it still remains under investigation. Lebanon Fire District would like to remind the public that electrical fires can often start unnoticed.  Take a moment today to inspect your home’s power cords and outlets for damage or overheating.  

A Springfield credit union employee faces serious charges after being accused of stealing nearly $75,000 from six members over the past six months.

According to court documents, the alleged thefts came to light when Gateway Credit Union staff contacted Springfield police on July 4. Authorities were provided with documents and surveillance footage that reportedly showed employee Laila Payne making unauthorized withdrawals and transfers between member accounts, resulting in cash withdrawals totaling $74,700.

Payne now faces multiple charges including four counts of first-degree theft, two counts of aggravated first-degree theft, and one charge of computer crime. Springfield police mentioned that upon questioning, Payne made admissions about the thefts. She has been employed at the credit union since January 2024.

Corvallis School District to Discontinue FlashAlert Notifications

The Corvallis School District will no longer use FlashAlert for notifications after July 31, 2025.

Notifications about district closures, school cancellations, or delays are shared directly with staff, families, and students through ParentSquare. These updates are also available on our:

• District website: www.csd509j.net
• Facebook: @csd509j
• Instagram: @corvallis.schools

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.

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 Lane County Fair – Tickets On Sale

  ·  Big news, Fair fans! Concert tickets AND all other Lane County Fair tickets are on sale

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. 

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

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

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.

Red Cross Issues Advice to Stay Safe During Extreme Heat

Heat can be dangerous for anyone. Stay hydrated, stay cool and stay connected.

— We’re experiencing some of the hottest temperatures of the year across Oregon and SW Washington. The American Red Cross urges everyone to take three critical actions to stay safe:

1. Stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
2. Stay cool by spending time in air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library or cooling center.
3. Stay connected by checking on others and asking for help if you need it. Make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

“Knowing what to do to protect yourself and loved ones from extreme heat can save lives,” said Priscilla Fuentes, Chief Executive Officer of the Cascades Region. “We’re asking everyone to check on friends and neighbors, especially older adults, people with chronic conditions, outdoor workers and athletes. You could make all the difference by sending a text, making a call or knocking on their door.”

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO Remind everyone to drink water, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Aim for a cup of water every hour and encourage people to avoid sugary, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks. Babies should be breast-fed or bottle-fed often. Fewer wet diapers or darker urine can be signs of dehydration.

Encourage athletes and outdoor workers to take breaks in the shade. They should drink a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes.  

Help those without air conditioning find a safe place to go like a mall, library or cooling center. They can also take cool showers or baths to help cool off. Remind people to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in light colors.

Never leave a child or pet alone inside a parked car, and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

HEAT ILLNESS SIGNS Anyone can become ill during extreme heat if their body can’t cool down properly. It’s critical to act fast as some types of heat illness can be deadly.

Heat cramps are signaled by heavy sweating and muscle pain. Take action by stopping what you’re doing, resting in a cool place and drinking a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes. If you feel sick to your stomach, pause drinking. Get medical help if cramps last more than two hours or you have heart problems.

Heat exhaustion is signaled by heavy sweating, weakness, cool and clammy skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting, nausea or vomiting. Take action by stopping what you’re doing, resting in a cool place and drinking a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes. Loosen your clothes and place a cool wet cloth on your body. Get medical help if you’re vomiting, don’t feel better in an hour, or if you have heart or kidney problems.

Heat stroke is a deadly condition signaled by high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, confusion, headache, dizziness, fainting, nausea or vomiting. Call 911. Move to a cooler place, remove extra clothing and use a wet cloth or a cool bath to cool down. If possible, sip a sports drink or water. 

IF THE POWER GOES OUT When a heat wave and a power outage happen at the same time, it can be even more dangerous. Stay in air conditioning either at home or at a mall, library or cooling center. Keep an ice-filled cooler stocked with food, water and medicine, so that they don’t spoil. More information is available here.

Finally, download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.  — http://www.redcross.org/cascades

Fires Everywhere

Nearly 80% of all fires this season have been attributed to human or undetermined causes; the rest were determined to be started by lightning. A large fire is considered any wildfire that burns more than 100 acres in timber or 300 acres of grassland and brush. As always, for the latest fire information visit the NWCC fire website.

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. 

As Kotek Scrambles to Save ODOT Union Jobs, Here Are Positions Being Cut and Vacated

The layoffs are slated for the end of July. ODOT would also erase vacant positions.

As Gov. Tina Kotek works the phones in an effort to stave off hundreds of layoffs at the Oregon Department of Transportation July 31, the lists of proposed layoffs and elimination of unfilled vacancies show that the impact of the cuts will hit all across the state, as will the closure of a dozen maintenance stations.

This story was produced by the Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit newsroom covering the state.

Here is the list of layoffs by ODOT region and county.

Here are the vacant positions ODOT proposes to eliminate. Government agencies often budget for positions that have gone unfilled either because they have not yet found the right candidate or because there’s no money to fill the position, or in some cases, because the agency prefers to leave the position open and use the money for different purposes.

After the Legislature failed to pass House Bill 2025, a transportation funding package, last month, Kotek, whose last-minute attempts to promote a deal fell short, warned darkly of the consequences of inaction.

“These layoffs constitute an emergency in Oregon’s transportation system that will hurt every part of Oregon,” the governor said July 7. “I have not and will not stop fighting for Oregonians who rely on us to keep our roads safe and people and products moving.”

Speaking on background, some lawmakers say the governor is working on a plan for a special session before Labor Day that would potentially be built around a six-cent gas tax hike, coupled with as-yet unspecified registration or other fee increases. The goal would be to save the ODOT jobs and provide some funding to the cities and counties who collectively get 50% of the gas tax revenue and who were left out of the final version of House Bill 2025—and opposed it for that reason.

Some Republicans proposed cuts to the ODOT budget during the session, so they have little motivation to join a special session. (And some are quietly exploring whether the terms of Measure 113, the 2022 constitutional amendment that prohibits more than 10 unexcused absences, would apply to a special session.)

Any new tax increase Kotek might propose requires a three-fifths supermajority in both chambers, which is exactly the number of Democratic members. Whether all Democrats would be willing to vote for a compromise package is unclear. (SOURCE)

State Chief Information Officer Announces Agreement with InnovateUS to Provide Training to State Employees on Responsible Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

– Enterprise Information Services (EIS) has partnered with InnovateUS to launch a series of courses to train state of Oregon employees on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) as part of our commitment to building an informed and capable public service workforce. InnovateUS, a leading provider of no-cost training, has developed courses that are specific to public sector employees and use practical examples and exercises to train on artificial intelligence and responsible use.

“Generative AI is vastly developing, and this training aligns with the work of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council that recognized the future of government depends first and foremost on people, supported by technology” said Terrence Woods, Oregon State Chief Information Officer. “This opportunity will provide our workforce with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI in their work responsibly, securely, and effectively.”

The training is a step towards enabling agencies to educate their teams, so they can appropriately utilize the modern capabilities of GenAI, while also mitigating its potential issues. It supports the goal of being more effective stewards of public resources.

Generative AI technology offers several benefits to both employees and the public by enhancing government efficiency, improving customer service, streamlining processes, and empowering the workforce with the skills and tools necessary to improve the lives of Oregonians.

STATE FORESTS ANNUAL OPERATIONS PLAN FOR TIMBER SALES FINALIZED AFTER ROBUST PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

– The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has finalized its Annual Operations Plans (AOP). The plans describe projects planned for state forests in the 2026 fiscal year that began July 1 and runs through June 30, 2026.  These include:

• Planned timber sales for each district.
• Recreation projects, such as the installation of a bridge.
• Other types of forest projects, such as stream enhancement or restoration projects.

ODF received 516 written comments during the public comment period that was open from April 18 to June 3.

“Once again, we received many passionate and constructive comments from the public, representing diverse perspectives and demonstrating a high level of interest and engagement in state forests,” said Nick Palazzotto, ODF’s State Forests Division Deputy Chief.  “The comments help us in the challenging work of trying to balance ODF’s legal obligation to manage state forests for timber production to meet economic goals as well as social and environmental outcomes—a concept referred to as Greatest Permanent Value.”

State forests provide economic, social and environmental benefits, including:

• Outdoor recreation
• Forest education
• Clean water
• Critical fish and wildlife habitats
• Sustainable harvest volumes that produce jobs and revenue that funds vital services in rural counties

The majority of timber sales are on Board of Forestry lands, where about two thirds of the resulting revenue is split with the counties. In turn, the counties share those revenues with special districts that support local schools or provide other essential community services. ODF retains one third of the revenue to fund management of state forests. A small portion of the timber sales are located on Common School Forest Lands and generate revenue for the state’s Common School Fund.

Some comments resulted in edits to specific timber sales while others are addressed in a high-level summary of the comments received highlighting the major themes, topics, and agency responses. 

“We read and consider every comment,” said Palazzotto. “However, we do not respond individually to each one. Sale-specific comments are considered by the field and technical specialists and changes are documented in the plans. We also develop a summary with broad categories that capture the high- level comments and provides our responses to the public commentary.”

The comment summary document has the following sections: 

• Recreation
• Timber Harvest
• Climate Change and Fire Mitigation
• Young Stand Management
• Aquatic, Water Quality, Wildlife
• Roads and Slopes
• Process and Document Improvement
• Specific Sales
• Out of Scope

“Because we manage state forests for the Greatest Permanent Value, we have to consider how our decisions impact all Oregonians, not just a single commenter,” said Palazzotto. “So even though we made changes to some sales, not everyone will be satisfied with those changes. We recognize that and seek to be as transparent as possible in our decisions. 

We know Oregonians care about their forests as we received more than 500 comments this year. Given the high interest in how state forests are managed, ODF will continue to work on improving communications with landowners, neighbors and concerned citizens. Our goal is to raise awareness of our AOP process and how people can connect with us to have their concerns heard.”

The Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Operations Plan documents are available for ODF’s Astoria, Forest Grove, Klamath-Lake, North Cascade, Tillamook, West Oregon and Western Lane districts. These are located on the same webpage as the summary of comments and agency response document.

Welcome to the 2025 Jackson County Fair!

Stop in the event center to see some critters – just don’t stick your hands through the panels. (Mommas and longhorns don’t always like that.) Canine Stars is at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on the Mace Lawn. The Swine Final Championship Drive is in the Olsrud at 7 p.m. The Outlaw Mariachi takes Center Stage at 7:30 p.m. If you need water, stop by the FD3 station in the gazebo. If you’re dropping off or picking up your kiddos, use Gate H. If they’re not 100% ready, just make a quick lap – help us keep ‘er moving. It us against inefficiency Join our information channel for even more Fair-related Information: https://www.messenger.com/channel/attheexpo

Northwest World Reggae Festival

 https://youtu.be/gzfZnTfbvQUClick link for full video — The 21st NorthWest World Reggae Festival July 18 – 20 Near Brightwood Oregon.Tickets and Info: www.nwwrf.com Watch your latest YouTube Video with a look at our great performers! Direct Ticket link: www.seajaysl.com

STUDENT LOAN OMBUDS FOCUSED ON HELPING BORROWERS NAVIGATE SHIFTING RULES, CHANGES IN REPAYMENT LAWS

Salem – Student loan borrowers faced significant confusion and frustration this past year in navigating the shifting landscape of loan repayment and forgiveness programs, according to a new report issued by Oregon’s student loan ombuds. Federal student loan repayment and forgiveness options continued to be challenged in court and intermittently available, according to the report.

Lane Thompson, who has served as Oregon’s student loan ombuds since the position’s creation more than three years ago, said the past year has been the most challenging yet.

“Because the rules continue to change, it leads to frustration and confusion for both borrowers and servicers. The ongoing nature of the changes has compounded these sentiments from borrowers,” Thompson said. “Forced collections resumed in May, so many borrowers are feeling the potential consequences of their student loan debt for the first time in five or more years. Another change, announced since the report was published, will also result in additional costs for borrowers.”

Part of the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation, the student loan ombuds is tasked with helping guide borrowers through their options and navigate the confusing student loan landscape. Thompson recently posted the program’s third annual report.

Two major takeaways from the report are:

• Servicers are difficult to reach.
• People pursuing federal loan benefits – who tend to be low income, public servants, and people with disabilities – are most affected by servicers’ lack of clarity

Going into year four, Thompson said she is hopeful that her work will help keep servicers on track during a time when financial entities have less federal oversight.

“The continuously changing rules result in less clear expectations for servicers, and makes regulatory oversight even more crucial. The chilling effect created by federal changes means state regulators are more important than ever,” Thompson said. “Helping people understand their rights and responsibilities is also key.”

Thompson said the other area where her position is having an effect is in helping student loan borrowers avoid scams.

“Scam attempts increase during times of financial upheaval, and one goal of the licensure structure is to help Oregon’s consumers check the legitimacy of collection attempts,” she added.

Thompson said she has resolved more complaints and participated in more advocacy this past year than previous years.

“Not every state has a student loan ombuds/advocate,” she said. “When there is a lack of clarity at the federal level, state level advocates and regulators can serve as a backstop for borrowers who have issues with the servicing of their student loans. I feel lucky to serve Oregonians in these times.”

If you have questions about your student loans or issues with your loan providers, contact Thompson at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or dfr.bankingproducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. Check a student loan servicer license at NMLSConsumeraccess.org.

PacificSource Health Plan Invitation to Free Cooking Classes

Do you want to learn how to make delicious, healthy, and economical dishes? We invite you to our FREE cooking classes. Easy to prepare Latin recipes, ideal for your family. Classes are in Spanish, with English subtitles. You can watch them live or when you have time. https://pacificsource.withhomemade.com/

The Oregon State Fair is set to commence on August 22nd. This year, there will be a total of 11 concerts. Featured artists include the All American Rejects, Wynonna Judd, Cheap Trick, and the Beach Boys.

Attendance to the concerts is complimentary with general admission to the fair; however, reserved seating and VIP Plus Suite Seats can be purchased. Tickets are available for purchase on the Oregon State Fair’s official website. The fair will take place from August 22nd until September 1st.

Buy tickets and learn more at: https://oregonstatefair.org/

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.  

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.

Registration Now Open for 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference

Registration is now open for the 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference, the state’s largest gathering dedicated to honoring and supporting women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The biennial event, hosted by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, will bring together women veterans from across Oregon for a weekend of connection, resources and recognition.

The event is free and open to all women veterans, but registration is required. The 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference is being held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Riverhouse Lodge in Bend, which was the planned location of the 2020 event that was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This year’s theme, ‘Stronger Together: Community and Connection,’ reflects the heart of what this conference is all about,” said Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “Women veterans have long served with distinction, strength and resilience — often in the face of tremendous challenges and barriers.

“This conference is an opportunity to honor our service, share our stories, and ensure every woman who has worn the uniform feels seen, valued and supported. We are stronger when we stand together, and united, we will continue to drive the ODVA mission forward.”

The Oregon Women Veterans Conference began nearly 30 years ago as a grassroots effort by a small group of women veterans seeking connection, support, and resources. Since the first event in 1998, the conference has grown into a unique statewide gathering that brings together women veterans from across Oregon to access benefits, build meaningful connections, and amplify their voices.

The 2025 conference will continue that legacy with inspiring keynote speakers, engaging workshops, fantastic networking opportunities and assistance for women veterans connecting to the full range of benefits and resources they have earned. It is a supportive space where women who have served can connect, grow, and thrive beyond their military service.

This year’s keynote speaker is Erin McMahon, director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and a retired U.S. Army brigadier general, attorney and combat veteran. During her 24-year career in the U.S. Army, McMahon served as the principal deputy general counsel for the National Guard Bureau, advising senior leaders through a wide variety of domestic disaster responses and serving as the first female Army National Guard general officer in the Office of the General Counsel.

Registration is free and may be completed online at www.eventbrite.com/e/odva-women-veterans-conference-tickets-1407725487829. Community sponsors and donors are the primary sources of funding for this event and help ensure all women veterans can attend the conference free of charge.

Registration for the Women Veterans Conference covers the event only; attendees are expected to make their own lodging and travel arrangements. More information about the Women Veterans Conference, including local lodging, donations and sponsorship opportunities, can be found online at wvc.oregondva.com.

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.

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.

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.

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