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

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Willamette Valley Weather

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

Benton County Fair & Rodeo Kicks Off Today

HOURS
Wednesday, July 30: 11:00 am to 12:00 am
Thursday, July 31: 11:00 am to 12:00 am
Friday, August 1: 11:00 am to 12:00 am
Saturday, August 2: 11:00 am to 12:00 am

4-H early admission: If you plan to attend the 4-H events before the fair opens at 11:00 am tickets go on sale at the Orange Gate/West Gate at 8:00 am. The Blue Gate/South Gate opens at 11:00 am.

GATE ADMISSION
Adults $10 Gate
Seniors (60+) $8
Youth (7-16 years) $8
6 and under always Free
Tickets on sale now

Season Passes
Adult $30
Seniors $24
Youth $24

Online Parking Pass $5.00
Parking is $5 at the gate

All concerts and rodeos included with your fair admission!

SPECIAL ADMISSION DAYS!
Wednesday: Family Fun Day! Gate Admission is FREE to kids 16 and under all day
Thursday: Senior Day! Gate admission is FREE to 60+ all day
Military Appreciation Every Day at the Fair! Gate admission is FREE to all active, reserve and retired military and National Guard when you show valid military ID at the gate during ticket purchase.

Bags are subject to search – We recommend using a clear bag if possible, please know that all bags are subject to search.
No coolers or picnic bags allowed. Chairs and blankets are permitted for concert area seating.

MORE INFO: https://www.bentoncountyfair.net/

Fatal Traffic Crash on I-5 Near Goshen

A fatal traffic crash involving multiple vehicles temporarily closed both north bound and southbound lanes of I-5 south of Goshen on Tuesday morning.

According to the Oregon State Police and the Oregon Department of Transportation, Fire and EMS dispatch logs show that emergency personnel were dispatched just before 8 a.m. on July 29 near Milepost 186 about two miles south of the Highway 58 interchange for a motor vehicle crash with injuries.

Two passenger vehicles were involved in an initial crash when they crossed into the northbound lane at an emergency turnaround and collided with a dump truck, state police said.  Authorities said a secondary crash involving three additional vehicles then occurred on the southbound side of the highway.  OSP confirmed that one person died and  another patient was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

ODOT detoured northbound traffic onto Highway 99 at Exit 182 when I-5 was partially reopened at about 11:30 a.m. 

Firefighters Extinguish Early Morning Brush Fire In Eugene

Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a brush fire on Gillespie Butte in Eugene early Wednesday morning.  Just after 2:30 AM a driver on I-105 reported a smoke column and what looked like orange lines on the hillside.

Arriving firefighters found an approximately 1 acre area burning. The fire was contained without any damage to nearby homes.  

Cool night time air and high humidity aided in a slow rate of spread, which would not have been the case in the middle of the day.  The cause is under investigation. 

Two people died following a near head-on crash on Highway 226 near Albany on Monday morning

Oregon State Police officials said that troopers responded at 7:47 a.m. on July 28 to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 226 near milepost 1.5. A red Buick Envoy, driven by 55-year-old Jarri Lynn Saul of Lebanon, was traveling eastbound when it attempted to turn north onto Old Bridge Drive. Saul turned into the path of and colliding near head-on with a westbound blue Kenworth commercial truck driven by a 49-year-old Aumsville man.

OSP said that Saul and a front passenger in her vehicle, a 15-year-old female Japanese exchange student, were both pronounced deceased at the scene. A rear passenger in the Buick, also a 15-year-old female Japanese exchange student, was transported by air ambulance to a local hospital with serious injuries, state police said. Authorities said that the driver of the Kenworth was not injured.

Highway 226 was impacted for about four hours during the on-scene investigation. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Albany Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation assisted OSP at the scene.

Crews Respond For Back To Back Brush Fires In Springfield

Eugene Springfield Fire responded to back to back brush fires in Springfield on Tuesday afternoon.  Just after 2PM, fire crews were called to the area of Glenwood Blvd and Henderson Ave to a fire in the bush along Glenwood. Glenwood Blvd was closed down for about an hour.  The fire was about 1/2 acre in size. Crews dealt with a couple of spot fires due to the wind kicking up but we got on them quick preventing fire spread. This fire is under investigation.  

The second fire came in about 10 minutes later at 42nd and Industrial Way. This fire was also about 1/2 acre and fast moving in windy dry conditions.  Firefighters were aided by Lane Forest Products staff who brought a water truck and heavy equipment to help out. Crews were stretched thin for this response with 1 Engine from the Thurston station and additional crews from South, West and Downtown Eugene. This fire was reportedly caused by fireworks, but the cause is under investigation.   

7/29 – #lanecountyfire At 4:30 PM, Pleasant Hill Goshen Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported barn fire on Hills Creek Road in Jasper, alongside automatic mutual aid from South Lane County Fire & Rescue, Lowell Fire District, and other neighboring departments.

A staffed summer crew, operating out of our Jasper Fire Station, arrived quickly to find a small barn fully engulfed in flames with fire spreading into nearby grass and brush. Thanks to their rapid response, firefighters were able to launch an aggressive fire attack and stop the spread toward adjacent properties, preventing what could have been a much larger incident.

Additional units focused on containing the barn fire, which had already partially collapsed. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and all animals are believed to have escaped the structure safely. The fire that spread into surrounding vegetation was quickly brought under control with assistance from the Oregon Department of Forestry – South Cascade District.

Pleasant Hill Goshen responded with two engines, a water tender, a chief officer, and our Support Services unit. Mutual aid was provided on scene by Lowell Fire District and South Lane County Fire & Rescue. Coburg Fire Department and McKenzie Fire had units initially responding but were later released.

This swift, coordinated response between agencies played a critical role in stopping the fire before it could threaten additional structures or the surrounding wildland-urban interface. We are grateful for the continued support of our partner agencies and the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s summer staffing grant, which has allowed us to staff an extra crew in Jasper this season.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. There is no ongoing threat to the public or nearby homes. A special thank you goes out to Brinks Land Improvement for their incredible community support. They responded with an excavator to assist with final overhaul efforts, helping firefighters more quickly access and extinguish debris in the barn. On a hot day, this generosity saved our crews valuable time and energy. Their support is a perfect example of how small communities come together when it matters most

7/27/25 – LCSO Case #25-3541 – Woman awaiting trial at the Lane County Jail dies from emergency medical issue

On July 27th, around 8:30 a.m., a Lane County Jail deputy conducting routine checks discovered a woman in custody was unresponsive. The deputy initiated a medical emergency response, and deputies and medical staff attempted life-saving measures including CPR. Eugene Springfield Fire also responded to assist, however the woman passed away.

The cause of death is still under investigation by the Lane County Medical Examiner’s Office. Next of kin was quickly notified of the incident.   The woman was identified as Karah Lynn Bowman, 37, of Veneta.

7/28/25 – LCSO Case #25-3570 Springfield man arrested in Camp Creek area after shots fired

On July 28th at about 7 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to an armed burglary in the 88700 block of Easy Lane, northeast of Springfield in the Camp Creek area. A resident observed David Anthony Raymond, 37, of Eugene, trespassing on the property with a firearm. The resident confronted him and fired a shot into the ground when he refused to leave. Raymond then also fired a shot from his firearm. Residents took shelter in their residence and called law enforcement.

Arriving deputies deployed a thermal-equipped drone to search the large property. They observed Raymond exit his vehicle armed with a handgun and rifle. He laid in a prone position several hundred yards from deputies and fired several shots in their direction.

Deputies deployed an armored rescue vehicle to begin moving toward Raymond. A sergeant on the Crisis Negotiation Team was able to contact Raymond by phone. A short time later, Raymond drove closer to deputies and surrendered.

After additional investigation, Raymond was arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail for: – Attempted Assault in the 1st Degree – 2 counts of Menacing – 2 counts of Recklessly Endangering – Burglary in the 1st Degree – Theft in the 1st Degree

Thanks to Eugene Police Department, Springfield Police Department, and Oregon State Police for their assistance on this call.

City of Eugene Government — The 2025 Community Survey is available online through July 31

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.

Local Nonprofit Receives Grant to Build 52 More Affordable Housing Units in Eugene

Square One Villages’ newest project, Rosa Village, will allow residents to own a share of the property, instead of individual single family homes.

Executive Director Andrew Heben said the project is the first co-op the state’s affordable housing tax credit has subsidized, and he’s hoping other towns and organizations follow Square One’s lead.

“We think it expands the continuum of home ownership in Oregon, which has become a pretty narrow pool of people that can qualify for a mortgage as an individual household these days,” Heben said.

Rosa Village is the nonprofit’s fifth project and it will house people making 60% of the median income or below.

“It’s targeting a population that’s definitely priced out of home ownership and is struggling to access even the smallest units on the rental market,” Heben said. “Its trying to create an accessible housing model that will provide more control and stability that a typical rental housing model would.”

The co-op will be built on a plot of land on Roosevelt Boulevard which previously was used as a safe sleep site.

Heben hopes construction on Rosa Village will begin late this year. He said Square One has been working with other groups in hopes of getting a few more, similar cooperative villages built in the area. https://www.squareonevillages.org/villages/rosa

Springfield Police Installing 25 License Plate Reading Cameras Around City

The Springfield Police Departmenti is installing 25 AI-powered license plate reading cameras throughout the city, and will be starting the installation process in the few weeks.

Springfield Police Spokesperson, Lieutenant George Crolly, explained how the department plans to use the flock cameras: “The cameras only point down at the rear license plate of a vehicle,” Crolly said. “So after that vehicle passes through it’ll register in the system and upload and let us know if it’s a stolen vehicle, if it’s a suspect in a case or quite frankly retain that information.”

According to the Flock Safety website, data is kept for up to 30 days. Crolly gave an example of how a log of license plates can help solve crimes. “If we have a home invasion robbery in the middle of the night, and we have information of the vehicle that left, we are able to track that vehicle before it arrived and after it left,” Crolly said. “So we can build a successful case using objective evidence against the suspect.”

But others are against that log of data. “And we’re not saying that police shouldn’t have access to these tools, what we’re saying is when the police want to go back and see where i’ve been for the past month,” Institute of Justice Senior Attorney Robert Frommer said. “They should have to ask a judge for a warrant first, and explain why they should get to see that kind of information.”

Frommer, is one of the lawyers representing two Norfolk, Virginia residents who are suing that city for its use of flock cameras, claiming they infringe upon their fourth amendment rights.

Frommer explained why he thought the cameras are unconstitutional: “These cameras infringe upon the fourth amendment because what they create is a comprehensive chronicle of all of our comings and goings,” Frommer said. “These cameras don’t blink, they don’t rest. They take a picture of every time you drive past.”

Crolly wants to assure the community that these cameras will not be used for activity outside of finding criminal suspects. “These cameras are not allowed to be used for immigration enforcement,” Crolly said. “We will not be using them for that reason and sharing them with immigration officials. Secondarily, that cameras are not to be used and cannot be used for speed monitoring or red light cameras.”

Once the cameras are up and running, Springfield police will have the location of every camera accessible to residents.

Now Recruiting! Join the team at Pleasant Hill Goshen Fire & Rescue and become a Volunteer Firefighter!

Taste of Oakway returns July 31 at the Oakway Center Heritage Courtyard — and you’re invited to savor, toast, and support a great cause under the summer sky.

Taste through an assortment of bites from Oakway restaurants Sip wine, craft beer & more Enjoy great tunes from Scott Austin Each ticket creates brighter futures for children and builds stronger families Tickets are on sale now — advance purchase only! Grab yours today at reliefnursery.org/tasteofoakwayHuge thanks to our Presenting Sponsors Oakway Center and Kendall Subaru of Eugene for making Taste of Oakway possible!

 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. 

The Eugene Police Department is gearing up for a fun-filled National Night Out celebration on August 3, where attendees will have the chance to win brand new bicycles.

Join us for National Night Out on August 3rd and you could roll away with a brand new BIKE! We’ve got a fleet of them ready and waiting for lucky winners! Perfect for cruising the neighborhood, commuting in style, or just looking cool at the park.

Gates open at 12:00 PM
Event kicks off at 1:05 PM
at PK Park

Bring the family and enjoy the fun. Families are encouraged to attend and enjoy a day of community connection, entertainment, and the opportunity to pedal away with a brand new ride.

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!

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

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.

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.

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.

Lane County Diaper Bank · Calling All Local Businesses!

We’re personally inviting YOU to be part of something special — our 2nd Annual Rolling the Dice for Diapers Casino Night is coming up, and we’d love your help spreading the word!

Event Date: September 27 Location: Ford Alumni Center All proceeds support free diaper distribution for families in Lane County. Want to join the fun and help families in need? Send us a message or email teresa@lanecountydiaperbank.org to get started!

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…

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.

The National Weather Service’s Distant Tsunami Advisory for the entire west coast, including all of Oregon, onTuesday

07/30/25 – 7:50am – Distant Tsunami Remains in Effect
Lincoln Co. Sheriff’s Office – 07/30/25 5:58 AM

DISTANT TSUNAMI ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT
Updated at 5:50am on 7/30/25

The Tsunami Advisory remains in effect from the National Weather Service.

What to do now in Lincoln County:
– Stay out of the water, off the beach, and away from harbors, marinas, breakwaters, bays and inlets.
– Be alert to and follow instructions from your local emergency officials.
– If you feel a strong earthquake or extended ground rolling take immediate protective actions such as moving inland and/or uphill preferably by foot.

Continue to monitor for updates:
– National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/
– Tsunami.gov: tsunami.gov/
– Lincoln Alerts: member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
– Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office FlashAlert: flashalert.net/id/LCSO

We will continue to provide updates as the situation develops or the tsunami advisory is downgraded.

The coasts of Oregon, Washington, and California have been upgraded from a tsunami watch to a tsunami advisory after an 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of the Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Peninsula in Russia.According to NOAA, an advisory means that a tsunami with strong waves is possible and people under the advisory should get out of the water and off the beach. People should also move away from harbors, marinas, breakwaters, bays and inlets.

𝐀𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐍𝐖𝐒 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝟖:𝟐𝟖 𝐩.𝐦., 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥. 𝐋𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝟏𝟎:𝟑𝟎 𝐩.𝐦. Please stay off beaches and out of waterways. Even a smaller tsunami wave can cause dangerous and unpredictable currents. Continue to monitor for updates at www.tsunami.gov. Additional alerts will be sent if the status changes or the advisory is canceled. 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐍𝐖𝐒: https://inws.ncep.noaa.gov/a/a.php?i=118254493 Tsunami advisories are an advance notice to areas that could be impacted by a tsunami at a later time. Advisory areas may be upgraded to warnings, or canceled, based on new information.𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞𝐝: At 4:25 PM (PDT) on July 29 an earthquake with preliminary magnitude 8.7 occurred 80 miles southeast of Petropavlovsk Kamchatka.

Wildfires In Oregon — Fires are catching across Oregon, and our brave firefighters are working tirelessly to protect our communities. We must all do our part

Sign up for emergency alerts

Follow evacuation orders immediately

Don’t park on dry grass

Keep 30 feet of defensible space around your home

No outdoor burning or fireworks

Together, we can help keep Oregon safe.

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.

If you see a fire call 911.  Also if you are a witness to the start of a fire and can provide information, eye-witness statements, video, photos or any other data, you can assist investigators by emailing them to etips@odf.oregon.gov“>odf.firetips@odf.oregon.gov. This information helps our investigators in creating a full picture of what happened and identify a responsible party if there is one.

Smoke and Wildfires Impacting Road Safety Across Oregon

ODOT, OEM, and DEQ Urge Drivers to Plan Ahead, Stay Informed, and Travel Prepared 

– As wildfires continue to impact parts of Oregon, Governor Tina Kotek has declared a State of Emergency, effective July 16, 2025, through December 31, 2025. Travelers are urged to use extra caution on the roads and know the conditions in the areas they are traveling to. Smoke can severely reduce visibility and create dangerous driving conditions. In some areas, wildfire activity has led to road closures or detours. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) are working together to keep Oregonians safe—and they’re asking the public to do their part before hitting the road. 

“If you’re planning a road trip this summer, make sure your car is ready,” OEM spokesperson, Erin Zysett, said. “Start your trip with a full tank of gas or electric charge, check your tires and air conditioner, and know your route. Conditions can change quickly during wildfire season.” 

OEM urges travelers to carry a well-stocked emergency car kit in case they become stranded or delayed. Your kit should include: 

• Jumper cables 

• Flares or a reflective triangle 

• Flashlight and extra batteries 

• First aid kit 

• Blanket 

• Map or printed directions 

• Cell phone and car charger 

• Backup power supply 

• Hand-crank Weather Radio 

• N95 mask (to help filter smoky air)  

• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place if needed) 

• Wet wipes, garbage bags, and toilet paper for sanitation 

• Whistle to signal for help 

• Water and non-perishable snacks 

• Cash or traveler’s checks 

• Portable shovel 

“Smoke  affects visibility as well as air quality and can lead to sudden changes in driving conditions,” said Chris Varley, DEQ Spokesperson. “If visibility is poor or the air is hazardous, consider delaying your trip. Your safety comes first. If you must drive in smokey conditions, close all the windows and direct the car’s air system to recirculate to help reduce the amount of smoke entering the car.” 

Before You Go: 

• Check road closures and conditions at https://tripcheck.com 

• Monitor air quality at Oregon Smoke Information 

• View active wildfire maps and evacuation levels at https://wildfire.oregon.gov 

• Sign up for OR-Alert messages at https://oralert.gov 

• Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone 

• Pack and emergency kit 

•  Visit https://wildfire.oregon.gov to learn more about how to be ready for fire season. 

Fire Season INFO

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. 

End of July is a good time to give urban trees a good soaking — The Oregon Department of Forestry wants to remind urban homeowners that now is the perfect time to remember to water your trees.

“By the end of July, soils in Oregon are very dry. Coupled with long, hot days, this puts trees under a great deal of stress. Drought-stressed trees are vulnerable to pests, at risk from losing their leaves early, and even dying,” said ODF Community Assistance Forester Brittany Oxford.

Oxford advises that trees three years and younger need about 15 gallons of water once a week, possibly more during heat waves.

“What’s harder for many in western Oregon to grasp is that even older trees benefit from a deep watering at least a few times during the summer,” said Oxford. “That’s why the last week of July and the last week in August have been designated as Soak It Weeks, to serve as reminders for urban homeowners to deeply water their older trees at least once during those times.”

Oxford points out that rainfall in western Oregon is no longer reliable enough in spring and fall to get trees through the dry summer months in good shape. ”Higher average temperatures are especially hard on the many trees in Oregon cities that are native to places where it rains a lot in summer, such as eastern Asia or the eastern U.S.,” she said.

While some trees native to dry areas of the world might not need or even want watering in the summer, most other trees will grow faster, look better and be healthier if watered in the summer.  

“Get to know what species of tree you have and adjust the watering needs according to how drought-tolerant it is, your soil type, and how exposed to sun your tree is,” says Oxford. “A tree in full sun may need more water than one growing in shade.”

She recommends that trees four to 10 years old may need anywhere from 20 to 30 gallons every other week. Trees older than that may only need a deep soaking once a month.

In all cases, water should be given close to the tree’s trunk. “Apply it slowly so it soaks down into the roots and doesn’t run off,” advised Oxford. “Drilling small holes on one side of a five-gallon bucket near the bottom can be a convenient way to water. Just refill the bucket from a hose as many times as needed.”

Watering in the morning or evenings is advised to reduce water loss from evaporation.

“Mulching around a tree also cuts down on water loss, but keep it from touching the tree’s trunk,” said Oxford.

Find more guidance on watering trees at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/Documents/forestbenefits/fact-sheet-watering-your-trees.pdf

The Trump administration is requesting that Oregon provide personal information of individuals who are receiving food stamps by as early as Thursday.

Officials from the Trump administration assert that this information is being collected to combat fraud and reduce government waste; however, anti-hunger organizations and certain elected officials argue that instances of fraud are infrequent and suggest that the government may have a more hidden agenda.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is mandating that state agencies responsible for administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly referred to as food stamps, supply sensitive personal data.

This request includes the names, addresses, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of individuals who have received or applied for SNAP benefits within the past three years.

New survey gathers feedback to help build a more sustainable future for parks

— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) wants to better understand the public’s values and priorities for the future of state parks through a new survey as it launches a strategic initiative to reimagine how parks are funded, operated and supported.

OPRD faces a potential 14% budget shortfall for park operations by 2027 even with recent fee increases. The gap is due to increasing costs, the impact of higher visitation and changes in lottery funds. The strategic initiative will work to address that shortfall before 2027.

“For more than a century, Oregon’s parks have been a source of pride, joy, and connection for communities across the state,” said Lisa Sumption, OPRD Director. “But the way we fund the system has not kept up with how Oregonians use and value it today. We’re not waiting for the crisis—we’re planning ahead to build a more resilient and relevant park system.”

OPRD launched an online survey this month to collect feedback from visitors and potential visitors about their priorities for new and existing experiences, services and amenities as well as views on public-private partnerships, sponsorships and other funding options.

The survey is open to everyone and will help inform decisions about the future of state parks. Those who complete the survey have the option of entering a drawing for a free Oregon State Parks annual parking permit. 

Oregon State Parks continues to experience record visitation with more than 56.6 million estimated visits in 2024. It is one of the most visited park systems in the country.

This level of use significantly increases wear and tear on aging park infrastructure, driving up maintenance needs and long-term operational costs.

Parks’ funding comes from three main sources. A little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from the agency’s share of recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. Oregon State Park operations is not funded by general fund taxes.

“We already operate leanly, but we’re also taking a hard look at costs and spending decisions as we plan the future. We’re building new partnerships with Oregon businesses and growing opportunities for visitors to experience state parks in new and innovative ways,” Sumption said.

In addition to operating more than 250 state parks and maintaining hundreds of historic structures, the agency also manages the ocean shore, the State Historic Preservation Office, ATV safety programs and permits as well as multiple grant programs for trails, ATVs, historic structures and local government projects.

For more information about the survey or to learn about ways to support parks, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/ or take the survey at bit.ly/stateparksurvey.

Due to ongoing budget reductions and uncertainty regarding funding, the consistently active Friends of Crater Lake are reaching out to promote greater public involvement in a series of forthcoming events.

Volunteers are being sought for a range of activities, including a Naturalization Ceremony, project weekend, Ride the Rim, and the group’s annual meeting. The first event is a Naturalization Ceremony scheduled for August 14, during which Crater Lake National Park will once again host a ceremony for newly recognized U.S. citizens. Friends volunteers typically assist with parking, respond to inquiries, and distribute refreshments at the event held at the Watchman Overlook. For further information and/or to register, please contact Karen Walters at karen@friendsofcraterlake.org. Volunteers are needed.

The annual Project Weekend is set for August 15 to 17, during which Friends volunteers will assist the park with various projects such as painting, trail enhancements, and native plant seed collection. Camping accommodations for RVs and tents will be available at Mazama Campground, along with dinner provided on Friday and Saturday evenings. For additional information and to register, please contact Ann McCaughan at ann@friendsofcraterlake.org.

Volunteers are also required for the annual Rim the Rim event, during which 25 miles of East Rim Drive, from its junction with the North Entrance Road to park headquarters, will be closed to motorized vehicles from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on two Saturdays, September 6 and 13. This event presents challenges due to significant elevation gains.

OHA launches ‘Connect to Hope’ awareness campaign, data dashboard on third anniversary of 988

Oregon Health Authority is marking the third anniversary of 988—the three-digit number that anyone can call, text or chat when in need of mental health support—with two significant milestones: the launch of a new data dashboard to increase transparency, track usage and demonstrate the impact of 988 in Oregon and the start of a new public awareness campaign, called “988 Oregon: Connect to Hope.”

“No matter who you are or what you are navigating, 988 Oregon offers a 24/7, immediate connection to trained mental health professionals who can help prevent mental health crises from escalating, save lives and promote recovery and hope throughout our communities,” said Ebony Clarke, Behavioral Health Director, Oregon Health Authority (OHA). “As OHA works to invest in the whole continuum of behavioral health care, we want everyone in Oregon to know that 988 can be a front door to help: providing free, compassionate support whether people are facing economic uncertainty, struggling with relationship or family issues, or simply don’t have a strong support system. Reaching out is a sign of strength.”

Over the past year, 988 Oregon answered more than 85,000 calls, texts and chats, each one connecting someone with a trained counselor. Nearly all calls to 988 are effectively de-escalated over the phone. By connecting people with resources and upstream support, 988 helps enhance access to care and potentially reduce more costly interventions such as hospital visits.

About 988 Oregon – When someone in Oregon calls, texts or chats 988, they are connected with mental health crisis counselors at one of the state’s two designated 988 centers: Lines for Life, which serves the entire state, and Northwest Human Services, which supports people from Marion and Polk Counties.

Research shows that most individuals who reach out to 988 feel significantly less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with a trained mental health professional. Callers don’t need to be in crisis to reach out—a focus of the new campaign, which was informed by community input—and family and friends can connect with 988 to get advice on supporting someone else.

OHA has also launched a new 988 data dashboard, which helps answer common questions about 988 trends in Oregon. For example, while 988 began as the simple-to-reach number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, more people call or text 988 about mental or emotional health concerns and family or relationship issues than thoughts of suicide. The dashboard also highlights the rise in calls, text and chat volume since it began in July 2022.

Promoting and strengthening 988 Oregon helps OHA deliver on commitments to build behavioral health capacity and to reduce stigma, key goals within OHA’s 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. Increasing awareness and understanding of 988 in Oregon also promotes equitable access to support and care.

For more information, or if you or someone you know needs help, visit 988Oregon.org or simply dial or text 988.

A volunteer diver, who assisted in recovering a child’s body from the Siletz River earlier this year and regularly helps in recovery around the state, reported that Deschutes County authorities threatened to arrest him on Tuesday if he attempted to enter the water to aid in the search for a man who fell over Dillon Falls last weekend.

Juan Heredia, 53, from Stockton, California, stated that he became aware of the search efforts via Facebook and chose to contribute to the endeavor. The missing individual is in his 30s and was visiting Oregon from another state, as informed by his brother.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office has not yet released his identity. On Saturday, six individuals were floating on the Deschutes River when they failed to exit before reaching Dillon Falls, a Class 5 rapid, according to the sheriff’s office.

Three individuals were rescued, while the bodies of two women, Amanda Loyd, 40, from Rockwall, Texas, and Lindsay Bashan, 33, from Parkland, Florida, were recovered. One person is still unaccounted for.

For the first time in many years, patrons can approach the bar, enjoy a shot of whiskey, and perhaps even witness a gunfight erupt in Shaniko along Highway 97.

Oregon’s most renowned ghost town now features an Old West tavern that operates on weekends. Benjamin Harleman, the owner of the High Desert Ranger Saloon, also serves as the president of the High Desert Rangers gunfighters club.

Harleman embodies the role of a traditional saloon keeper, donning a black felt wide-brimmed hat, a collarless “granddad” shirt, and a blue wool vest while he serves drinks behind the bar. The saloon provides a variety of root beers and sodas, alongside alcoholic beverages at the bar.

For food, Harleman typically has wings or nachos available for patrons. While cash is preferred, in a rare concession to modernity, the bar also accepts Venmo or CashApp.

Oregon Lottery Earns Top Honors from National Council on Problem Gambling

Oregon Lottery’s efforts to educate and support responsible gaming initiatives are being recognized nationally with four top awards. Each year, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) honors individuals and organizations from around the world for their significant impact in the fields of problem gambling awareness, research, and responsible gambling.

Oregon Lottery earned awards in the following categories: 

• Corporate Social Responsibility Award for Oregon Lottery’s overall program
• Corporate Public Awareness Award for Oregon Lottery’s “Safer Play” PSA campaign
• Corporate Multicultural Communications Award for Oregon Lottery’s “multicultural digital/print media marketing campaign” 
• Don Feeney Award for Responsible Gambling Excellence (individual honor) – Stacy Shaw, Oregon Lottery senior manager for product marketing

“These awards reflect how deeply safer play is woven into everything we do,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “It’s more than just a requirement. It’s a shared commitment for the entire agency and is rewarding to be recognized as a national leader.”

The awards ceremony took place on Friday, July 18, in Columbus, Ohio, during the National Conference on Gambling Addiction & Responsible Gambling 2025. 

“Over the past year, we have invested in our Safer Play Program to conduct research, offer marketing outreach, and provide resources that let us reach more people on their help seeking journey,” said Shaw. “Receiving these awards shows that our peers and colleagues see the impact of this important work, which we are excited to continue.” 

Since 1992, one percent of Oregon Lottery profits have funded problem gambling treatment and prevention efforts throughout Oregon. Since that time, over $148 million in Lottery funds has supported those services.

Oregonians can access online tools and connect with free, professional counseling by going to the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource (OPGR) website. 

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery, visit www.oregonlottery.org.

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/

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