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
Monday, May 4, 2026
Willamette Valley Weather
Be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast
2026 Primary Election Ballots in the Mail
The Lane County Elections office has placed ballots in the USPS mail stream for the 2026 Primary Election.
Lane County’s 21 ballot drop boxes will remain open until 8:00 pm on Election Day, May 19, 2026. Drop boxes are open 24/7. A list of drop box locations is included with every ballot.
“We are excited to announce that ballots for the Primary Election are in the mail,” said Lane County Clerk Tommy Gong. “And Lane County Elections is ready to assist voters who have questions or need assistance making sure their ballots are cast.”
Voters can track the status of their mail ballot by visiting www.oregonvotes.gov/MyVote.
Voters may return their voted ballots in one of the following ways:
- Regular mail. Ballots must be postmarked no later than May 19, 2026 and received no later than May 26, 2026 to be counted.
- A 24/7 ballot drop box.
- Lane County Elections. Ballots can be turned in by May 19, 2026 directly to the Lane County Elections Office during business hours (open until 8:00 p.m. on Election Day).
Ballot drop box locations can be found online at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/elections. And also statewide here: https://sos.oregon.gov/voting/Pages/drop-box-locator.aspx
As a reminder, Oregon is a closed primary state. All voters will have an opportunity to vote on issues and nonpartisan positions. Only voters who are registered members of political parties may vote for their respective party’s candidates in a primary election.
Voters with questions can email elections@lanecountyor.gov or call 541-682-4234.
About the Lane County Elections Office: The Elections Office, located at 275 W. 10th Avenue in Eugene, is responsible for conducting elections in Lane County. The elections office manages voter registration, the processing of mail ballots, recruitment and training of election workers, and certification of elections.
4J School District Lays Off 170 Employees Due to Budget Crisis
Over 170 employees at Eugene School District 4J received layoff notices Friday afternoon as the district works to address it’s budget shortfall. This included over 100 licensed educators that were let go.
Protesters held a rally near district headquarters Friday night. Affected staff and activists gathered at Washington Jefferson Park before marching to the Eugene School District 4J office.
The staffing cuts come as 4J tries to balance a budget deficit of more than $40 million for the upcoming school year. Officials say they relied on federal funding from the pandemic and financial reserves to provide services over the past few years, but now need to make adjustments.
According to the district’s Director of Communications, Kelly McIver, the layoffs will not take full effect until the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year.
Officials say roughly 90% of their budget is spent on staff. “You have to look at cutting those ongoing expenses, which, you know, for public school districts, it is primarily its employees,” McIver said. “We’re going a long way toward doing that. We’re going to have more work to do next year.”
Local Nonprofits Awarded Spring Grants from Oregon Community Foundation Support Nonprofits in Rural, Urban Communities
Nonprofits share 258 grants totaling nearly $5.2 million across several programs
Nonprofits across Oregon will share nearly $5.2 million in grants to strengthen community well-being, build arts infrastructure, expand economic opportunities and stabilize families.
In total, 258 grants will support organizations through several Oregon Community Foundation grant programs. Most of the funding — $4.77 million — comes through the Community Grants program and goes to 252 organizations. Grants go to organizations serving all 36 Oregon counties. Two Willamette Valley nonprofits were awarded seperate grants.
Row River Fire Response: Southern Willamette Valley — “One action leads to another. Trust builds trust. A shared goal becomes a mission, and that mission grows into a community with purpose. We started this work in 2022 with a goal of fire protection in the valley, and in 2024, the community came together to create a volunteer fire district. Now in 2026, that effort continues to grow as we work to build a main fire station for our volunteers.
“Along the way, we have come to see how connected we are, not just to each other, but to the land, the watershed, and the people beyond our valley. What is taking shape here reaches beyond this place. It reflects a shared responsibility for the people and landscapes we are connected to across Oregon. Small actions, carried forward, can grow into something that serves far more than where it began.
“This 20-mile valley serves a much larger region, supplying drinking water to downstream communities, hosting the Row River Trail, one of Lane County’s top destinations, and providing a primary corridor to the Umpqua National Forest. After years without emergency response, in 2024, the community came together to create a volunteer fire district, now supported by 23 firefighters, strengthening a shared sense of responsibility and connection across the valley. That effort continues in 2026, as we work to establish a fire station to improve response, support our volunteers, and protect our community, visitors, and this part of Oregon’s forest, watershed, and the falls and rivers that draw visitors across the state. Please visit and explore the Row River Valley for yourself.”
Henderson House: Northern Willamette Valley — “The mission of Henderson House is to provide culturally aware outreach, education and services for victims of domestic and sexual violence through leadership, hope and respect for thriving families. We were founded and are currently led by survivors of domestic and sexual violence. We are the only domestic and sexual violence confidential victim services provider in Yamhill County. We offer culturally relevant services to the Latinx population which have been developed, facilitated and informed by Latinx survivors.
“Our services include confidential one-on-one advocacy, 90-day emergency shelter, motel vouchers, protection order assistance, court accompaniment, survivor healing events, art therapy groups for survivors and their children, trauma informed parenting classes, prevention education, DHS co-located advocacy, community outreach, crisis response, emergency room accompaniment during a sexual assault, strangulation, or high lethality forensic exam, safety planning, provider of Oregon Health Authority HRSN program, resource and referrals and basic needs supplies.”
Community Grants: $4.77 million for General Operating Support — The Community Grants Program is a responsive funding opportunity for nonprofits based in Oregon or primarily serving Oregon communities. This cycle, OCF prioritized three categories of organizations that have historically experienced underinvestment: those serving small, rural communities, and those that are either culturally specific or culturally responsive. Nearly half of the grants went to organizations focused on economic vitality and livability.
“Oregon is full of people working hard to improve the lives of our neighbors across the state, and we’re grateful to our donors for sharing resources to support big ideas and smart solutions,” said Kim Koenig, Director of Community Programs for Oregon Community Foundation.
Nonprofits use the flexible grants where they matter most — on anything from stabilizing staffing, strengthening essential programs or maintaining the infrastructure that allows organizations to serve their communities. This spring’s awards will help nonprofits meet rising demand and support community-led solutions in both rural and urban areas.
Row River Fire Response received a grant to protect residents of the 20-mile Row River Valley in Lane County.
“We started this work in 2022 with a goal of fire protection in the valley, and in 2024, the community came together to create a volunteer fire district,” said Kathleen Istudor, Executive Director.
“Now in 2026, that effort continues to grow as we work to build a main fire station for our volunteers. Along the way, we have come to see how connected we are, not just to each other, but to the land, the watershed and the people beyond our valley.”
Yachats Youth & Family Activities Program will use its grant to provide high-quality preschool, summer camp, afterschool activities and more to families on the North Coast.
“We try to keep tuition as low as possible so that we can ensure services to all families who walk through our doors,” said Kristina Anderson, Executive Director.
To see the full list of grants by region, click here.
Arts and Culture Grants: $250,000 to Build Arts Sector — In 2022, OCF established a learning community to give arts educators a forum to learn from each other and build leadership in their field. Out of it grew the Oregon Arts Education Collective, a program that connects educators and advocates to cultivate a thriving arts ecosystem across the state. A grant will support the Collective as members develop infrastructure and build coalitions that advance arts and culture.
Arts and Culture Grants: $50,000 to Preserve, Inspire Field of Architecture — A fund that advances the professional development of design and building professionals will award a $50,000 fellowship. The Van Evera and Janet M. Bailey fund supports the Van Evera Baily Fellowship, which is designed and administered by the Architecture Foundation of Oregon in partnership with OCF.
Economic Vitality Grants: $37,500 to Support Sector, Small Businesses —
Economic Vitality grants will support nonprofits helping communities build and sustain strong local economies, including efforts that expand entrepreneurship, strengthen small businesses and increase access to opportunity. These resources will help communities invest in strategies that create stability for workers, families and local employers.
Housing Stability in Oregon: $30,000 for Homelessness Response —
These grants support research around best practices for organizations helping Oregonians stay housed and regain stability.
About Oregon Community Foundation —
Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships statewide in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.
8 Charged in Multistate Drug Ring, Including Eugene and Springfield Women
Eight people — including two from Lane County — are facing federal charges for their alleged roles in a drug trafficking operation that moved methamphetamine and fentanyl from Mexico into the U.S. and across multiple states, including Oregon.
According to investigators, the group smuggled drugs into California, then distributed them nationwide using vehicles and packages hidden in items like toys and cereal boxes.
Among those charged are Felicia Waite of Eugene and Julia Dorfler of Springfield, who are accused of helping distribute drugs locally. Others allegedly operated stash houses in California and Salem or worked as couriers collecting drug money.
Authorities say the investigation led to the seizure of 56 pounds of fentanyl, 116 pounds of meth, more than $300,000 in cash, and 20 firearms.
The case is being led by federal prosecutors in Oregon, with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies.
Update– Eugene Emergency Physicians In Court Opposing Planned PeaceHealth ER Changes
Federal court hearings began April 27, 2026, regarding a lawsuit by Eugene Emergency Physicians (EEP) to block PeaceHealth from replacing them with ApolloMD, a Georgia-based firm, for emergency services in Lane County. EEP alleges the transition violates Oregon’s corporate medicine law (SB 951) and threatens patient care, while a federal judge has expressed frustration with testimony from the incoming group, Lane Emergency Physicians.
- The Plaintiffs: Eugene Emergency Physicians (contractors for 35 years), Dr. Dan McGee, and local patient parents.
- The Defendants: PeaceHealth, ApolloMD, and the newly formed, Georgia-managed “Lane Emergency Physicians”.
- The Allegations: EEP argues that ApolloMD is creating a “shell game” to control medical decisions through Lane Emergency Physicians, violating Oregon’s 2025 law that bans management companies from dictating clinical care.
- The Court Action: U.S. District Judge Mustafa Kasubhai is hearing testimony to decide whether to grant a preliminary injunction to stop the, as The Register-Guard reports, planned, ApolloMD staffing changes in Cottage Grove, Florence, and RiverBend in Springfield.
- Judge’s Response: Judge Kasubhai warned on day three that the vague testimony from Lane Emergency Physicians owner Dr. Johne Chapman, who lives in Illinois and has no contract, “defies logic and credibility”.
- Community Impact: Over 7,000 people signed a petition against the move, and local physicians have expressed concern over a “staffing crisis” if the current team is replaced.
The trial continues to determine if the contract transition crosses legal lines, with The Register-Guard reporting on the intensive, multi-day testimony.
SB 951 is a 2025 Oregon law that restricts management services organizations, or MSOs, and private equity from owning or controlling physician practices, aiming to preserve clinical independence and limit corporate influence in healthcare.
The lawsuit brought in March by EEP and two other plaintiffs alleges the emergency medical services partnership between PeaceHealth and ApolloMD, ApolloMD Business Services and Lane Emergency Physicians, violates corporate practice of medicine laws in Oregon.
PeaceHealth witness Dr. Johne Philip Chapman —the sole owner and member of Lane Emergency Physicians or LEP. Despite having no written contract with PeaceHealth, says he’s expected to take over emergency departments in Cottage Grove, Florence and Springfield in the coming months.
Chapman lives in Illinois, works as a medical director at an ApolloMD-affiliated hospital outside of Chicago and said on the stand that he has no plans to move to Oregon. When asked about the corporate structure of LEP and ApolloMD, Chapman often had no answers and deferred to accountants or lawyers not present.
U.S. District Court Judge Mustafa Kasubhai, who has heard witness testimony since Monday, to state that the concept that leaders such as Chapman “have no idea how this is set up— defies logic and credibility.”
Witness testimonies are expected to be concluded and oral arguments to begin on Monday.
Security Fence Being Installed at Eugene Federal Building
The federal government is installing temporary security fencing around the Eugene Federal Building, and city officials say there is little they can do to stop it because the property falls under federal jurisdiction.
According to the City of Eugene, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has notified officials of its plans to install the fencing. Because the federal government is exempt from local and state land-use regulations on property it owns, the city cannot enforce local fence codes or block the project.
City officials say their involvement is limited to reviewing and processing a Right-of-Way Use Permit to ensure nearby public streets and sidewalks remain safe and accessible during installation.
That permit would allow contractors to temporarily use public streets or sidewalks for construction-related work, such as closing traffic lanes to deliver materials or complete installation.
Last week, the city received an application from GSA’s contractor requesting temporary lane closures on Pearl Street and 7th Avenue during the fencing project. Officials say the application is currently under review, and the permit will be issued if all requirements are met.
The city emphasized that Right-of-Way permits are approved or denied based solely on whether the applicant meets permit requirements, regardless of who submits the request.
According to GSA, part of the fence will extend along the northern section of the Pearl Street sidewalk next to the federal building. However, the city says that section of sidewalk is on federal property, where Eugene holds no easement and has no legal authority to prevent its closure.
To maintain pedestrian access, the city plans to convert a nearby parking strip into a continuous walkway before the fencing is installed. That work is expected to begin Monday, April 27.
City officials described Pearl Street as a key route connecting downtown Eugene to the riverfront and market district and said they are committed to ensuring the alternate pedestrian path is in place before the sidewalk closure begins.
4/30/26 – LCSO Case 26-2132 – Adult in Custody awaiting trial assaults deputy
UPDATE: The assault charge in this case has been upgraded and Squires was arraigned today in the Lane County Circuit Court on charges of Assault in the 2nd Degree and Assault on a Public Safety Officer.
— On April 30th, a Lane County Sheriff’s deputy assigned to the Jail was securing single cell doors during dayroom time in a jail housing area. An adult in custody, Reid Michael Squires, 23, of Eugene, unexpectedly began punching the deputy in the face.
Squires continued striking the deputy until a nearby adult in custody intervened, stopping the assault until additional deputies arrived. The deputy sustained significant injuries requiring care at an area hospital. She has since been discharged but is still recovering from her injuries. The involved deputy has more than 25 years of law enforcement experience.
After additional investigation, Squires was charged with Assault on a Public Safety Officer and Assault in the 4th degree. Squires is in custody awaiting trial on a Eugene Police Department case for the following charges: – Rape in the 1st Degree – Three counts of Sex Abuse in the 1st Degree – Three counts of Sodomy in the 1st Degree – Three counts of Using Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct
4/30/26 – LCSO Case 26-2139 – Deputies arrest Cheshire woman for assault with a knife
On April 30th at 11 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded with a Junction City Police officer to a residence in the 95400 block of Noraton Road, north of Junction City, for a report of an assault. Deputies learned a 62-year-old male had been struck in the head with a knife and was bleeding severely. The suspect, Jeannae Marjorie Mackay, 31, of Cheshire, had run from the scene. Fire personnel responded, and the victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
Deputies searched the area for two hours without success until a witness observed Mackay in Junction City. Deputies responded and arrested Mackay without further incident. She was lodged at the Lane County Jail for Assault in the 1st Degree, Burglary in the 1st Degree, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Thanks to the Junction City Police Department and area residents for their assistance on this case.
A federal judge in Eugene conducted oral arguments last week regarding a lawsuit that seeks to halt ICE operations in schools, hospitals, and churches.
The lawsuit, brought forth by church leaders and school staff from Oregon, Florida, and California, contends that these immigration enforcement actions breach government policy.
The plaintiffs’ attorneys have presented over 60 instances from individuals across 18 states who have been affected by these immigration raids. An emergency motion has been filed to pause the enforcement actions until the trial concludes. Meanwhile, the Trump Administration has requested the dismissal of the case. Although Federal Judge Ann Aiken did not indicate her forthcoming decision on the motions, she assured that a ruling would be issued soon.
Pacific Crest Bus Lines Starts May 1st For Eugene-Medford Route
Pacific Crest Bus Lines says its new Eugene-to-Medford route serving Roseburg will launch May 1. Tickets are now available, with fares from Roseburg listed at $18 to Eugene Amtrak, $22 to Grants Pass, and $27 to Medford.
Pacific Crest Bus Lines says its new Eugene-to-Medford route is officially set to launch May 1, bringing daily intercity bus service to communities along the Interstate 5 corridor, including Roseburg.
The company announced that tickets are now available for purchase, including seats on the route’s first ride. The new service will connect Eugene, Cottage Grove, Sutherlin, Roseburg, Canyonville, Grants Pass, and Medford.
The service was previously expected to begin in April, but Pacific Crest Bus Lines now says the route will launch May 1st.
Pacific Crest Bus Lines said riders can book trips through the company’s website. In a message from the company, Pacific Crest said it expects strong interest in the new service and encouraged riders to book early to secure a seat.
The route is expected to give Douglas County travelers another option for regional transportation, including connections to Eugene, Medford, Grants Pass, and other communities along I-5.
— Pacific Crest Bus Lines provided fare information for both southbound and northbound trips on the new Eugene-to-Medford route.
Fares vary depending on where riders board and exit the bus. From Roseburg, listed fares include $6 to Sutherlin, $13 to Cottage Grove, $18 to Eugene Amtrak, $9 to Canyonville, $22 to Grants Pass, and $27 to Medford.
Full-route fares between Eugene Amtrak and Medford are listed at $44.
Northbound Fares
Southbound Fares
Riders should check Pacific Crest Bus Lines directly for the latest stop information, schedules, ticket availability, and any changes before traveling. Tickets and additional information are available through Pacific Crest Bus Lines at pacificcrestbuslines.net.
Lane County will participate by setting up donation barrels for staff to donate at Lane County owned properties.
“Food for Lane County is already seeing high numbers of pantry visitors at a time when our food supply has been limited due to federal program cuts. We want all Lane County residents to have the food and resources they need to thrive, and we’re very concerned about the welfare of our community if SNAP benefits aren’t available.” said Food for Lane County Director of Development and Communications, Rebecca Sprinson.
For individuals and families in need of food, please visit the FFLC food finder, at:
Those interested in donating can do so by visiting: https://www.foodforlanecounty.org/ways-to=give/donate or by calling 541-343-2822.
$18.95 can help feed 120 people.
Every weekend, the volunteer crew at Burrito Brigade rolls hundreds of delicious vegan burritos to help close the hunger gap here in Eugene. Each box of tortillas — just $18.95 — helps feed 120 neighbors.
Could you spare $18.95 to help? Even better — could you make it a monthly donation to keep those burritos rolling all year long?
Every dollar makes a difference in these times of need. Thank you for being part of the Brigade. 
Donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/donation…/we-rise-by-lifting-others Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org
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)
White Bird Clinic
This year marks 60 years of community health centers transforming care across the U.S. At White Bird Clinic, we’re proud to be part of this legacy – bringing whole-person care to our community’s most vulnerable neighbors for more than 50 years! From medical and dental services to harm reduction and crisis response, we’re here to meet people where they are.Learn more about community health at the link below: https://www.nachc.org/about-nachc/history-of-chc/
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
EWEB Emergency Water Stations
The final emergency water station has been officially installed in Eugene as part of the Eugene Water & Electric Board’s disaster preparedness plan.
This is where people can access water in case of earthquakes, wildfires, or other events that could disrupt or limit access to the city’s water system.
Other locations are the Eugene Science Center, Howard Elementary School, Prairie Mountain School, Amazon Park-YMCA, the Sheldon Fire Station, and the Lane Events Center and Fairgrounds.
All seven locations across the city of Eugene draw their water from underground wells. The intent is to provide individuals up to two gallons of water a day during an emergency. MORE INFO at EWEB: https://www.eweb.org/projects/emergency-water-stations
Oregon Food Bank · Find free food sites near you using OregonFoodFinder.org.
If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.
Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?
Here are resources that can help:
211Info: Dial 2-1-1 or visit the211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon.
Oregon Food Bank: Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Mapto find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you.
Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit theADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area.
5/4/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today
Oregon to Honor Fallen Law Enforcement Officers May 5, 2026
Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 5 at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.
The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.
The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations.
Oregon’s trees face harm from another hot, dry summer
Oregon trees are in for another difficult year due to climate change. Conditions this spring are already similar to those in 2015, when we experienced peak high temperatures and drought. That’s on top of a winter that tied 1934 for the warmest since accurate records were kept beginning in 1896, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Trees in Oregon have been experiencing chronic stress from hot droughts for at least a couple of decades. Although there have been a few breaks, the compounding of frequent, or long-duration warm and dry conditions have taken their toll on many trees. These conditions include:
- higher than average temperatures
- inconsistent precipitation, or more precipitation falling as rain than snow
- earlier snow melt.
Oregon Department of Forestry Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl said, “A warm or dry spring is particularly harmful for trees as this is their most active growing period. This stress reduces growth, weakens defenses against opportunistic insects and diseases, and can outright kill tissues or whole trees.”
Buhl said warmer conditions can also make conditions more favorable to tree pests.
“Warm winters reduce pest deaths from cold, increasing their growth or number of pests. It also extends the range of less cold-tolerant pests, and lengthens their feeding periods,” she said.
Buhl has this guidance for landowners:
- Plant species and seedlots (stock adapted to a specific area) only within their current and climate-projected range.
- Avoid planting seedlings during dry seasons and keep roots moist and out of direct sun when planting for best establishment.
- Reduce competition for moisture by controlling weeds and reducing stand density to the carrying capacity for the tree species, site quality, and climate.
- If currently adapted species or seedlots are struggling, shift toward a nearby, more drought-tolerant seedlot, or in extreme cases a more drought-tolerant species
- Native understory vegetation and mulch can help retain soil moisture.
- Avoid root compaction from heavy equipment when the soil is wet.
- Avoid fertilizing if the site is drought-stressed. Fertilizer increases biomass and therefore water requirements.
Find more information on trees and drought at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/documents/forestbenefits/drought.pdf
The Office of the Governor, in partnership with the Oregon Arts Commission, is proud to relaunch Art in the Governor’s Office. This program brings the works of some of Oregon’s most distinguished artists to the state Capitol to be displayed in the Governor’s Gallery (formerly the Reception Room).
This longstanding tradition, which began in 1975 and celebrates the diverse creativity of Oregon’s professional visual artists, returns this year after a pause due to the pandemic and the restoration of the Capitol building. It will feature a series of three exhibitions of renowned practitioners of photography and painting.
The 2026 series begins with an exhibition by Harrison Branch, an accomplished photographer and Oregon State University Professor Emeritus. Branch’s “Palladotypes: Unpublished Images” will be on display April 24 through July 16.
“With construction nearly completed, it’s so meaningful to be back in the Capitol – and restart the sharing of art in the Governor’s Office,” said Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson. “Oregonian artist Marie Watt so perfectly described the importance of art: ‘Art is a living, breathing part of our community. Art belongs to everyone, and it has the power to transform the way we see each other and ourselves.’ I encourage everyone who visits or works in the Capitol to stop by the Governor’s Office to view these beautiful pieces of art and photography.”
Featured Artist: Harrison Branch — Born in New York City and educated at the San Francisco Art Institute and Yale University, Harrison Branch has spent more than four decades at the forefront of photographic education and artistry. Joining Oregon State University faculty in 1972, Branch was instrumental in developing the university’s photography program.
Branch, who lives in Corvallis, is celebrated for his technical expertise with bellows cameras—large, intricate instruments that allow for extreme precision. His work deeply explores the “natural environment,” specifically focusing on the tonal relationships between silver and the superior platinum-palladium printing process.
“In the age of digital photography,” Branch said, “I prefer the traditional methods, which could also be called classical. To me this hands-on method brings the most joy and excitement. Watching an image materialize in the developing tray is still magical.”
His photographs, which often feature undeveloped natural areas, have been exhibited internationally, including at the Bibliothèque Nationale in Paris and the George Eastman House.
Upcoming 2026 Exhibitions
Following the exhibition by Harrison Branch, the Governor’s Office will host two additional prominent Oregon artists:
Erik Sandgren (July 17 – Oct. 8): Sandgren’s work probes the figured landscape through the lenses of myth and history. He works in many media. His large-scale murals, paintings and prints are in private and public collections as diverse as the Maryhill Museum of Art and the Yale University Art Gallery.
Nancy Watterson Scharf (Oct. 9 – Dec. 31): Scharf is based in the Southern Oregon coast range, and her acrylic paintings provide a “voice for nature,” investigating the complex relationship between humans, animals and the ecosystems they share.
Public Access — The Governor’s Gallery is viewable most Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitation information is available at 503-986-1388.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding political campaigns that placing signs within highway rights of way is prohibited.
ODOT regularly removes signs that are improperly positioned, as they can distract drivers, pose safety risks, and obstruct official road messages. Any campaign signs found in violation are taken down and stored at a nearby ODOT district maintenance office for a period of 30 days or until they are retrieved. While signs are permitted on private property visible from the highway, they must adhere to specific regulations, including a maximum size of 12 square feet.
Oregon Prescription Drug Affordability Board to host community forums to hear how prescription drug prices affect Oregonians
The Oregon Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is hosting a series of community forums in April and May to hear from people about the high cost of prescription drugs and the effect it has on their lives and budgets.
The in-person forums will be held May 5 at the Salem Library, May 6 at the Redmond Library, May 12 at the Asian Health & Service Center in Portland, and May 18 at the Beaverton Library. Online forums are scheduled for April 28, May 11, May 13, and the online board meeting, May 20.
“We invite all Oregonians to join us at these forums and share your stories about the cost of your medications and how those costs impact your lives,” said Sarah Young, PDAB executive director. “All forums will have similar content, so choose the best option for your schedule. We would love to have patients, caregivers, and consumers join us to share their experiences. Hearing your stories will help inform the board as it reviews drugs to identify affordability challenges and high out-of-pocket costs for patients.”
The board conducts annual drug reviews and presents a list of medications that may create affordability challenges to the Oregon Legislature each year. This year, PDAB will review the following medications to evaluate their affordability and their impact on Oregonians and the state’s health care system:
- Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Ozempic (Type 2 diabetes)
- Humulin R U-500 (improve blood sugar control for those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes who require more than 200 units of insulin per day)
- Keytruda and Verzenio (cancer)
- Xeljanz (autoimmune and inflammatory conditions)
- Ocrevus (multiple sclerosis)
- Skyrizi (immune-mediated inflammatory conditions)
- Tremfya (plaque psoriasis)
- Xolair (allergic and inflammatory conditions)
The feedback from the community forums will help inform PDAB’s drug review process. Each of the drugs and what they treat can be found on PDAB’s website.
The three online forums are:
- Tuesday, April 28, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 161 635 9753 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)
- Monday, May 11, from noon to 1:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 160 556 2737 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)
- Wednesday, May 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 160 948 4958 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)
The four in-person forums are:
- Tuesday, May 5, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Salem at the Salem Public Library, 585 Liberty St. SE
- Wednesday, May 6, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Redmond at the Redmond Public Library, 817 SW Deschutes Ave.
- Tuesday, May 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in Portland at the Asian Health & Service Center, 9035 SE Foster Road
- Monday, May 18, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Beaverton at the Beaverton City Library, 12375 SW Fifth St.
“We also invite everyone to share online feedback about the prescription drugs the board is reviewing,” Young said. “If you have been prescribed one of the drugs on the list, please answer the questions and submit the form.”
The feedback forms are located on the PDAB website and include options for patients, medical experts, safety net clinics, and others.
The Oregon Legislature created the board out of Senate Bill 844 in 2021 to protect Oregonians and the Oregon health care system from the high costs of prescription drugs. The board holds monthly online meetings that are open to the public. The board has eight members with backgrounds in clinical medicine or health care economics.
For more information, email pdab@dcbs.oregon.gov, call 971-374-3724 or go to dfr.oregon.gov/pdab.
### About PDAB: The Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is in the Division of Financial Regulation, part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. The board was established under ORS 646A.693 to protect residents of Oregon, state and local governments, commercial health plans, health care providers, pharmacies licensed in Oregon, and others within the health care system in this state from the high costs of prescription drugs. Visit dfr.oregon.gov/pdab.
Tuition at Oregon’s seven public universities will increase again this fall, marking the twelfth consecutive year that the state’s four-year institutions have raised admission costs for new students.
This ongoing trend of relying on tuition hikes to fund university operations, coupled with insufficient state investment, has positioned Oregon’s public universities as the most expensive in the western United States, as reported by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education.
Over the past decade, resident undergraduate tuition increases have outpaced inflation for six of those years, averaging an annual rise of 4.3%, which translates to approximately $430 more each year. Additionally, any proposed tuition increase of 5% or more requires approval from the state’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission.
Medford Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Abusing a Minor Victim
MEDFORD, Ore.—A Medford, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for sexually abusing a minor victim in his care and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
David Michael Burnett, 37, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison and a lifetime term of supervised release.
According to court documents, starting in June 2024, Burnett sent five videos of himself sexually abusing a minor victim in his care. Investigators seized Burnett’s devices and found over 300 videos and almost 8,000 images of CSAM.
On August 1, 2024, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a two-count indictment charging Burnett with sexual exploitation of children and distribution of child pornography. On February 3, 2026, Burnett pleaded guilty to both counts.
U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Medford Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Judith Harper.
This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A new proposal from the federal government could change how housing programs and shelters treat transgender people across the country.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) wants to change part of a rule called the “Equal Access Rule.” Right now, that rule helps protect people from discrimination based on gender identity. The new proposal would remove “gender identity” and replace it with “sex.”
This means shelters and housing programs could place people based on their biological sex instead of how they identify. They might also ask for documents to prove it.
HUD Secretary Scott Turner said the change is meant to protect women and focus on what he called biological reality.
If the rule is approved, it would also remove some protections for transgender people in housing programs that receive federal money. It could even force local programs to follow federal rules instead of state laws, or risk losing funding.
In Oregon, state law already says it’s illegal to discriminate based on gender identity. Because of that, some housing providers say the new federal proposal could create confusion.
One worker from a local housing agency explained that organizations might have to choose between following federal rules to keep their funding, or following state laws that protect transgender people.
Right now, shelters in that area follow state law and allow equal access. But even small changes at the federal level could affect how they operate.
The proposal could also mean agencies need more staff training or face new legal risks.
The worker added that transgender people already make up a large part of the homeless population and could face even more challenges if the rule goes into effect.
The Salem Housing Authority said it’s too early to know exactly what will happen. They said any real changes depend on whether the proposal becomes an official rule.
For now, the proposal is open for public comment until late June.
Roseburg Police were called out last Tuesday morning after a woman allegedly attacked an orthodontist and exposed herself with children present.
Officers were called out to Current Orthodontics after Sarah Faith Raines, 40, of Roseburg started yelling at staff. A witness told officers that before they arrived, Raines had been yelling at staff before reportedly dropping trou in front of children.
An orthodontist at the location attempted to escort Raines from the property when he says she slapped him. Police located Raines nearby and took her into custody.
She is currently lodged at the Douglas County Jail on charges of harassment and disorderly conduct.
BLM Brings Oregon Folklife Programming to National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
BAKER CITY, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to explore Oregon’s living cultural traditions through a new interpretive folklife series at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center beginning this week.
The series aligns with America’s 250th anniversary by highlighting the people, traditions, and cultural knowledge that have shaped the nation over time. Visitors can experience firsthand how traditional arts connect past and present while supporting the BLM’s mission.
From April through October, visitors will have interactive opportunities that represent Native American, ranching, and rural lifeways. Presentations will take place daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Pacific Time, offering deeper insight into each artist’s craft and cultural background.
April 23-25, Sara Barton, traditional basket maker of Mono Lake Paiute and Yosemite Miwuk ancestry works closely with Burns Paiute weavers
May 7-9, Kathy Moss, cowboy poet, buckaroo, horse trainer, and rancher from Prairie City
June 18-20, Roberta Kirk, regalia maker, food gatherer, and bead and dentalium artist from Warm Springs, Tenino and Wasq’u
July 9-11, Cheryl Newhouse, spinner and weaver from Richland
August 13-15, Mildred Quaempts, dentalium artist from the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla
September 24-26, Clair Kehrberg, saddle and gear maker and leatherworker from John Day
October 15-17, Katie Harris Murphy and Mary Harris, regalia and beadwork artists from the Wallowa Band Nimiipuu, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Karuk Tribes
“This interpretive outreach brings people face-to-face with the traditions that continue to shape communities across Oregon,” said Robert Reis, acting manager for the Interpretive Center. “These demonstrations create a meaningful connection to the past through the skills and knowledge that are still practiced today.”
This series is designed to build long-term, high-quality cultural programming at the Interpretive Center, ensuring visitors can engage with authentic traditions and perspectives for years to come.
The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located at 22267 Highway 86 in Baker City and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT. Admission fees apply. For more information, visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center website or call 541-523-1843.
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
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
Taking Another Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey
Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends.
But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle
We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate.
Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.” https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162
We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a huge reward for information that brings Fauna home.
Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing.
Tipline- 541-359-5638
Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com
FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132
The Junction City Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance locating a missing and possibly endangered person.
62-year-old Wade Felton Lloyd, of Junction City, was reported missing on November 20, 2025. Mr. Lloyd was last seen on November 16th in the area of Birch Street and 2nd Avenue in Junction City.
Mr. Lloyd normally stays close to the Junction City area, has close ties to his family, and his only transportation is an older motorized bicycle, which is also missing.
Mr. Lloyd is a slender white male, standing 6 feet tall with brown hair and hazel eyes. Mr. Lloyd is without his cell phone, wallet, and his medications.
The Junction City Police have exhausted all leads as to his whereabouts and is hoping that the community might recognize him or recall where they last saw Mr. Lloyd. If you have information regarding Mr. Lloyd or have seen him on or after November 16th, 2025, please call the Junction City Police Department at 541-998-1245.
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