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, August 29, 2025
Willamette Valley Weather
Wildfires continue to produce smoke in the Pacific Northwest. Breathe a little easier by keeping up to date on air quality conditions and concerns at Fire.AirNow.gov.
With hot, dry conditions in the forecast & increased crowds for Labor Day weekend, Please take precautions to avoid sparking a human-caused fire, be familiar with evacuation levels, and have a go-kit ready in case you need to leave your home.” — We’ve had an unprecedented fire season already. Don’t be that spark that could lead to a tragedy! Check Conditions
Emigrant Fire
Quick Facts August 29th, 2025 16,372 acres 0% containment 537 personnel 16 crews 9 aircraft 2 dozers 4 masticators
Oregon Department of Forestry – Western Lane District · Pickens Fire Update
Perimeter control lines have been secured but not all flames or hot spots have been addressed in the fires interior. Flames could be seen within the fire footprint Thursday night but we will have engines on scene all night to assure the fire doesn’t spread. Engines will resume Friday morning completing mop up in the interior. Size was 15.3 acres burning mostly in grass but some timber also.
Labor Day Weekend
Don’t Forget Why We Celebrate Labor Day
Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday of September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements in the United States.
Labor Day, an annual celebration of workers and their achievements, originated during one of American labor history’s most dismal chapters.
But the history behind the Labor Day holiday is far more complex and dramatic than most might realize, starting with a heated campaign by workers in the late 19th century to win support and recognition for their contributions. In July 1894, President Grover Cleveland finally signed into law legislation creating a national Labor Day holiday in early September.
In the late 1800s, at the height of the Industrial Revolution in the United States, the average American worked 12-hour days and seven-day weeks in order to eke out a basic living. Despite restrictions in some states, children as young as 5 or 6 toiled in mills, factories and mines across the country, earning a fraction of their adult counterparts’ wages.
People of all ages, particularly the very poor and recent immigrants, often faced extremely unsafe working conditions, with insufficient access to fresh air, sanitary facilities and breaks.
As manufacturing increasingly supplanted agriculture as the wellspring of American employment, labor unions, which had first appeared in the late 18th century, grew more prominent and vocal. They began organizing strikes and rallies to protest poor conditions and compel employers to renegotiate hours and pay.
In the wake of this massive unrest and in an attempt to repair ties with American workers, Congress passed an act making Labor Day a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories. On June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed it into law.
Labor Day is still celebrated in cities and towns across the United States with parades, picnics, barbecues, and other public gatherings. For many Americans, particularly children and young adults, it represents the end of the summer and the start of the back-to-school season.
AAA: Travel Trends for Labor Day 2025
Yes, AAA confirms that Labor Day weekend travel in Oregon will be busy, with millions expected to travel for this final summer getaway.
Expect heavy traffic, especially on Thursday and Friday afternoons and potentially all day Saturday, as well as crowded airports and popular regional destinations like the Oregon Coast and Central Oregon. Getting an early start on Thursday or Friday morning is recommended to beat the congestion.
It’s been a record-breaking summer travel season, and many will squeeze in one final trip over the Labor Day weekend before the summer wraps up. AAA booking data shows that Alaska cruises, theme parks, Central Oregon and the Oregon Coast are the most popular destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho. AAA says the good news for travelers is that flights, hotels and car rentals cost less this year compared to 2024.
Memorial Day always marks the unofficial start to the summer travel season, and Labor Day marks the unofficial end. The Labor Day weekend is typically a busy travel weekend compared to other weekends in August and September, but the volume is not as high as the other major summer holidays, Memorial Day and Independence Day. With many schools already back in session or starting soon, families tend to take shorter trips that are closer to home over Labor Day. However, those without kids in school often use Labor Day as the kickoff to the fall travel season to take advantage of cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and off-peak pricing. Destinations in Europe, Mexico and Iceland are especially popular for these travelers.
“Many are eager to venture out for the last holiday weekend of the summer, enjoying one last vacation before the fall routine starts again,” says Doreen Loofburrow, senior vice president of travel at AAA Oregon/Idaho. “Alaska cruises are especially popular this time of year. Cruise ships are usually less crowded than earlier in the summer, and while it’s a bit chillier than in July and August, the weather is still nice and it can be a great time to see wildlife and a hint of fall color.”
AAA can help you plan your Labor Day getaway, or any trip, with Trip Canvas. This free resource offers ideas and information for countless destinations. You can find the 9 best Alaska Cruises for every traveler, top things to do in Bend, things to do in Portland on a budget, best places to eat at Disneyland, and the Northern California and Southern Oregon Coast road trip, to name a few.
Top Labor Day destinations — Here are the top destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho based on searches and bookings:
Alaska cruises are very popular, with the cruise port cities of Seattle and Vancouver B.C. topping the lists of the most popular U.S. and International destinations. Disneyland and Las Vegas are perennial favorites.
The top regional destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho are Central Oregon, Portland, the Oregon Coast, Portland, Medford/Ashland and Eugene.
Labor Day gas prices — Those taking a road trip for the Labor Day holiday will find gas prices that are more expensive in Oregon and Washington this year compared to last year, but cheaper in most other states.
The national average is currently $3.21 and the Oregon average is $3.98 (as of August 28, 2025). Last year on Labor Day, the national average was $3.33 and the Oregon average was $3.78.
Find current gas prices here: https://gasprices.aaa.com/
Find Oregon gas price news here: https://info.oregon.aaa.com/oregon-gas-prices/
“Gas prices have been relatively calm this spring and summer, due to fairly steady crude oil prices. Pump prices should remain fairly stable through the Labor Day holiday, barring a refinery or pipeline outage, a major storm that impacts the Gulf Coast, escalating tensions in the Middle East, or some other geo-political event that sends crude oil prices higher,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.
Best and worst times to drive — INRIX, a global provider of transportation data and insights, says the best times to drive over Labor Day weekend are before lunchtime, and for those hitting the road on Saturday, the earlier, the better! Traffic congestion worsens as the day progresses.
The worst times to drive over the holiday weekend are typically in the afternoon and early evening hours. The afternoons of Thursday, August 28 and Friday, August 29 will be among the busiest times on the roads as holiday travelers mix with commuters. Saturday is expected to be extra busy with many drivers heading out of town or taking day trips.
“Most Labor Day travelers will depart on Thursday or Friday before the holiday, and return home on Labor Day or Tuesday,” says Dodds. “Monitor traffic and navigation apps, listen to traffic reports on the radio, and check road and weather conditions at TripCheck or your local transportation department. These tools can help you avoid the worst bottlenecks.”
In either direction, be aware of the traffic impact from wildfires and recovery efforts.
ODOT is advising travelers to keep hot cars off dry grass and keep trailer chains from dragging to prevent any new, disastrous fires from sparking.
Labor Day is also an especially deadly time because of drunk or impaired driving. Law enforcement agencies have announced extra patrols for DUIIs.
For more information on Oregon roads, check tripcheck.com
Oregon Department of Transportation – As the 2025-26 college football season nears, expect heavy traffic on the weekends of home games for University of Oregon and Oregon State University.
OREGON DUCKS SET FOR NEW COLLEGE FOOTBALL SEASON! The 7th ranked Oregon Ducks open the season at home against Montana State on Saturday 8/30 at 1pm.
Not only is it opening week for the Oregon Ducks, but the Oregon State Beavers are also gearing up to defend Reser Stadium this Saturday as the first game of season kicks off at 7:30 PM Oregon State Beavers vs. Cal Golden Bears!
Expect all-day traffic congestion in the #WillametteValley on these dates as thousands of fans travel to and from the games. Remember, there are many ways to get around in Oregon! You can walk or roll, take a bus or train, or share a ride. Learn more, plan a trip, or find a ride at GetThereOregon.org.
If you aren’t traveling this weekend, there is plenty to do around the area – check Eugene Weekly Event Calendar https://calendar.eugeneweekly.com/calendars/all-events
Catholic Community Services of Lane County, Inc. (CCS)
You’re Invited! A Magical Family Morning at the Hult Saturday, August 30th 10:30am – 12pm (Free Event for Families)
Celebrate the end of summer with a free family-friendly event at the Hult Center! On Saturday, August 30th, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, enjoy live entertainment, creative activities, and a sprinkle of magic—perfect for kids ages 5–10 (and fun for all!).
Don’t miss Fooble the Dragon’s whimsical performance at 11:00 AM, hands-on games, community partner booths, and a special school supply drive to help local families. Join us in the Hult Center Lobby for a morning full of joy, imagination, and giving back!
https://hultcenter.org/events/magical-family-morning-25/ — Catholic Community Services of Lane County is proud to assist in promoting this free, family-friendly event.
The Eugene Police Department is ramping up its efforts to curb drinking and driving, launching a no-nonsense DUII high-visibility enforcement campaign through September 1.
This enforcement surge is made possible through an Oregon Impact DUII Grant, which funds the increase of patrols beyond the department’s typical capacity, ensuring the streets are closely monitored for impaired drivers.
Impaired driving poses a real and preventable risk to our community, and the Eugene Police are using the grant to put more eyes on the road and more boots on the ground during a time when celebrations often lead to dangerous driving choices.
According to a press release from the City of Eugene, everyone can play a part in making the roads safer by picking a designated driver before they start drinking, not letting friends drive impaired, or choosing a taxi or ride service after consuming alcohol.
Additionally, if you’re throwing a party where liquor’s flowing, be a good host and arrange for sober rides home for your guests. And while it might seem like a simple act, buckling up your seatbelt remains the most effective defense we have against the unpredictability of impaired drivers on the road.
When you’re out driving and come across a motorist who appears to be under the influence, stay safe and dial 911. By taking these steps, you’re not just avoiding trouble, you’re actively supporting community efforts to reduce harm.
PLEASE Help Prevent Human-Caused Wildfires
As of late August 2025, statewide fire season is in effect across Oregon, and high fire danger levels are expected for the Labor Day weekend. Officials from the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution to prevent wildfires. Key restrictions and safety guidelines for Labor Day weekend
- Fireworks are prohibited on public lands. The sale of legal fireworks ended July 6, and all fireworks that fly, explode, or travel more than 12 feet horizontally are illegal year-round in Oregon without a special permit.
- Check local burning rules. Campfires and other open flames are heavily restricted or banned in many areas. Portable stoves that use bottled fuel are typically allowed in cleared areas, but always check the specific rules for your location. Violators can face fines and be held liable for damages.
- Use caution with vehicles. Park in cleared areas away from dry grass, and ensure your vehicle’s undercarriage is free of debris. Vehicle parts like hot catalytic converters can easily ignite roadside vegetation.
- Adhere to power equipment rules. Tools like chainsaws have operating time restrictions, especially during periods of high fire danger. Always have fire extinguishing equipment on hand when operating power tools.
- Stay informed about local conditions. Rules vary by county and specific land jurisdiction, such as those managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the US Forest Service. You can find the most up-to-date information through these sources:
- Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF): Offers up-to-date information on restrictions and closures by district.
- Keep Oregon Green: Provides general fire prevention information.
- Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM): Posts safety information and news releases on social media and its website.
- Register for emergency alerts. Sign up for local emergency notifications through OR-Alert to receive evacuation notices and other critical information.
- Immediately call 911 to report fires.
- Drones and other unmanned aircrafts are illegal to fly near fires.
- Fireworks, incendiary/tracer ammunition and exploding targets, are prohibited during fire season (May-October).
- Use caution when target shooting. Clear a 20-foot radius around the target by removing all vegetation and rocks.
- Ensure vehicles and trailers are properly maintained
- Make sure chains and other metal parts are not dragging.
- Keep exhaust systems clean and use spark arrestors.
- Do not park on dry grass.
- Carry extra water, shovel, and/or a fire extinguisher with you.
- Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished before leaving your campsite by making sure it is cool to the touch.
- Please don’t smoke and if you do, don’t throw out cigarette butts.
- Please be mindful and think about your actions
To ensure all Oregonians remain safe during wildfire season, we urge everyone to stay tuned into these communications channels and follow all official safety guidelines related to air quality and recreation:
Watch Duty app: Download this app on your smartphone to understand where wildfires are in real time as well as monitor air quality and other metrics. https://app.watchduty.org
Northwest Interagency Coordination Center: During fire season, this web-based interactive map is updated daily with current fire perimeters and locations. This website acts as the wildfire resource coordination center for the Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, Oregon Dept of Forestry, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Washington Dept. of Natural Resources and the National Park Service. https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/index.aspx
InciWeb the Incident Information System: The federal interagency all-risk incident information management system provides an interactive map with real-time location information on wildfires. https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/
Oregon Department of Forestry Wildfire News: The official wildfire news blog for the Oregon Department of Forestry. Look here for all wildfire news related to state forest lands. https://odffire.com/
Keep Oregon Green: A partnership comprised of statewide and interagency groups working together to promote awareness of the risk and causes of wildfires and how to be prepared in case of a wildfire emergency. https://keeporegongreen.org/
OregonLive Wildfire Map: A project managed by OregonLive that incorporates data from InciWeb, National Interagency Fire Center, Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, Oregon Office of Emergency Management, NOAA into an easy-to-use map tool. https://projects.oregonlive.com/wildfires/map
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality – Air Quality Monitoring Data: A real-time map and cell phone application you can use to track air quality, including wildfire smoke impacts, across the state. Check your app store for OregonAir. https://oraqi.deq.state.or.us/home/map
Purple Air – Air Quality Map System: Real-time air quality information using crowdsourced data and data from EPA air sensors. https://map.purpleair.com/1/mAQI/a10/p604800/cC0…
NOAA High Resolution Rapid Refresh Data Visualization: The High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency(NOAA) is an experimental data visualization tool for wildfire smoke. Be sure to turn on the “Vertically Integrated Smoke” layer to see smoke paths. https://hwp-viz.gsd.esrl.noaa.gov/smoke/index.html
Preventing wildfires requires a collective effort from everyone—help mitigate the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our forests and communities.
Monitor Fires in Oregon – Updated Daily
Please Help Prevent Wildfires!
In these dry conditions, a single spark can cause a lot of damage. Learn how you can prevent wildfires by visiting the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention page.
Labor Day Boating Fun and Friendly Reminders
Labor Day Weekend traditions are rooted in the outdoors, and to keep things safe, the Oregon State Marine Board suggests taking the time to plan your on-water get away with the following tips:
Wear your life jacket. Each boat (including canoes and kayaks, inflatable boats, and stand up paddleboards) must have a properly fitted life jacket for each person on board and at least one sound-producing device. Life jackets need to be in good shape and readily accessible – not under a hatch or in their packaging. All youth younger than 13 must wear a life jacket when in a boat that’s underway. Since storage space is limited on paddlecraft, it makes the best sense to just wear a life jacket. So far this season, most of the victims of recreational boating fatalities were paddlers not wearing life jackets.
Know your waterway. “Take the time to get familiar with the waterway and know the inherent dangers,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. “Look out for wood, other debris, and shallow gravel bars with low water levels.” Find out more about low water impacts on boat ramps by subscribing to the Marine Board’s Opportunities and Access Report.
Know what rules apply. There are all types of watercraft on the market; some are considered boats and others are pool toys. Boats are designed differently, and by state law, have specific equipment requirements. “If you plan to float in a river, keep in mind that pool toys are designed for use in a swimming pool, have no directional control, and can puncture easily. Float in a watercraft designed for a river; one which won’t easily puncture and comes equipped with a paddle so you can maneuver away from obstructions.” Paulsen adds. It’s state law that any boat with a motor, even temporarily mounted, must be titled and registered. Paddlecraft (including stand up paddleboards) 10 feet and longer are required to carry a Waterway Access Permit.
Boat Sober. Boating is a great social activity, and the Marine Board encourages boaters and persons floating on the waterways, to leave the alcohol on shore. It’s safer for everyone. If arrested for Boating Under the Influence of Intoxicants (BUII), violators can be fined up to $6,250; can lose boating privileges for up to three years and even serve jail time. Intoxicants include marijuana, illicit drugs, and even some prescriptions.
Sit on the seat inside the boat. Many boaters are tempted to ride on the swim platform, stern, sides, and bow of open motorboats. The stern can be a dangerous place for exposure to carbon monoxide and a prop-strike safety hazard. It is illegal to ride on the bow, decks, gunwales or transoms of a motorboat when the boat is underway. Sitting on designated seats is the safest option – especially when the boat is towing someone. Just because new boats have seats on the transom or swim step doesn’t make them legal for use when the boat is underway.
Slow down, keep scanning, and be courteous. Know the boating regulations for your area of operation. Boaters, including personal watercraft, are responsible for damage caused by their wake. Remember to slow down within 200 feet of a dock, launch ramp, marina, moorage, floating home or boathouse, pier or swim float, even if they don’t have a “Slow No-Wake” buoy or sign. Paddlers should stay closer to shore, crossing busy channels at right angles only when it is safe and allow motorboats to pass in deeper water. Be courteous, share the waterway, and recreate responsibly.
The top boating violations this summer include not having enough wearable life jackets on board, not carrying a waterway access permit, not carrying a sound signaling device, and not having a valid registration. So far this year, there have been 15 recreational boating fatalities in which not wearing a life jacket was the most common contributing factor.
For more information about equipment requirements, boating regulations, and ideas on where to go boating, visit the Marine Board’s website.
Oregon’s Missing Persons
Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.
Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced
Have a Safe and Happy Labor Day Weekend
We’ll be back in the office Tuesday September 2nd