Willamette Valley News, Friday 6/5 – The Prefontaine Classic Has Been Named an Oregon Heritage Tradition, Salem Police and FBI Collaborate to Disrupt School Threat, Pride Fest Today & Other Local and Statewide News…

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

Friday, June 5, 2026

Willamette Valley Weather

Be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

The Prefontaine Classic has been named an Oregon Heritage Tradition by the Oregon Heritage Commission as the world-renowned track and field event prepares for its 51st year.

The designation recognizes Oregon events that have been held for at least 50 years and have made a lasting impact on the state’s identity and culture.

The Prefontaine Classic began in 1975 and was renamed in honor of legendary Oregon runner Steve Prefontaine shortly after his death. Today, the event attracts top track and field athletes from around the world to compete at Hayward Field in Eugene.

Commission officials will present the Oregon Heritage Tradition designation to Track Town Events and the Oregon Track Club during this year’s Prefontaine Classic, scheduled for July 3rd and 4th at the University of Oregon.

51st Prefontaine Classic Details

• Location: Hayward Field at the University of Oregon (1580 East 15th Avenue, Eugene, OR)
• Dates: Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, 2026
• Event Times: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM PT on July 3, and 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM PT on July 4
• Designation Presentation: The Oregon Heritage Commission will officially present the Heritage Tradition plaque to Track Town Events and the Oregon Track Club during the meet.

The Prefontaine Classic is the 29th event in Oregon to be designed an Oregon Heritage Tradition. Other Oregon Heritage Traditions include the Great Oregon Steam-up in Brooks, Oregon State Fair, Medford’s Pear Blossom Festival, the Pendleton Round-Up, and the Woodburn Fiesta Mexicana.

Salem Police and FBI Collaborate to Disrupt School Threat 

On June 4, 2026, a 16-year-old juvenile was taken into custody following a coordinated investigation that disrupted a potential school-related threat involving firearms. 

At approximately 9:33 a.m., detectives from the Salem Police Department were alerted by the FBI that the juvenile had been researching school shootings, displaying concerning behaviors, and accessing materials related to the manufacturing of firearms. 

Detectives immediately partnered with Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) to ensure the safety of students and staff. The juvenile was not in attendance at West Salem High School, which prompted detectives to establish surveillance at locations the juvenile was believed to frequent. 

Information gathered during the investigation led detectives to a residence on McGilchrist Street SE. At approximately 1:15 p.m., detectives and other officers surrounded the residence and called out to the juvenile to ensure a safe resolution. The juvenile emerged from an attached shed and was taken into custody without incident.  

The related crimes occurred in Polk County, and the juvenile will be lodged at Yamhill County Juvenile Detention Center, facing charges related to the manufacturing of a firearm. 

This incident underscores the importance of collaboration among law enforcement and community partners, including the Salem Police Department, FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and local school officials. Their coordinated efforts enabled rapid information sharing and ensured there was no imminent threat to schools or the community. Based on the information gathered, there is no ongoing threat related to this incident. 

The investigation remains ongoing, and further inquiries should be directed to the Polk County District Attorney’s Office. 

Deputies arrest Veneta man for murder following shooting

At about 9pm on 6/3/2026 Lane County Deputies responded to the report of a shooting in the 87000 block of Huston Road in Veneta. Responding deputies contacted several people at the location and discovered one person deceased.   

The deceased was identified as 40-year-old Mark Thomas Tierney. During the investigation LCSO Detectives arrested the shooter, 63-year-old Martin Grant Tierney, for Murder in the second degree and Unlawful use of a weapon. Martin Tierney was lodged at the Lane County Jail, and the investigation is still ongoing. 

All individuals in this case have been identified and accounted for. There is no ongoing threat to the community.   LCSO Case 26-2746

Junction City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

EUGENE, Ore.—A Junction City, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison Wednesday for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Trevor Alan Slocum-Lammers, 31, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release.

According to court documents, in August 2023 a cloud storage account associated with Slocum-Lammers uploaded CSAM. On July 30, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant and interviewed Slocum-Lammers, who admitted to possessing CSAM.

On Sept. 19, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Slocum-Lammers with possession of child pornography. On Oct. 9, 2025, Slocum-Lammers pleaded guilty.

The FBI investigated this case in collaboration with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and Oregon State Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

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.

Eugene Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Enticing a Minor Online

EUGENE, Ore.—A Eugene, Oregon, man was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison Wednesday for enticing a minor and the father of another minor to send sexually explicit images, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Gino J. Hinojos-Castle, 34, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison and 5 years supervised release. He was ordered to pay restitution to the victims depicted in child sexual abuse material (CSAM) that agents learned he had exchanged with others online.

“The exploitation of children is among the most reprehensible crimes we prosecute,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “Today’s 12-year sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct and the lasting harm these offenses inflict on victims. Our office, together with our law enforcement partners, remains committed to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting those who exploit children, and to ensuring that offenders are held fully accountable under federal law.”

According to court documents, on August 12, 2024, and October 14, 2024, Hinojos-Castle used the social media platform Kik to chat with a minor and a father of another minor where he requested sexually explicit images of the minors. From June 2024 through July 2025, Hinojos-Castle sent CSAM to users on Kik and also sent several messages describing past instances in which he said he had sexually abused minors in a Eugene park.

On July 24, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant, agents seized Hinojos-Castle’s cellphone upon his arrival at the Eugene airport from an out of state trip. Agents found CSAM-related chat applications and CSAM, which he had traveled with from the state of Wyoming.

On September 18, 2025, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a six-count indictment charging Castle with attempted enticement of a minor, attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and transportation, distribution, and receipt of child pornography.

On January 28, 2026, Hinojos-Castle pleaded guilty to attempted enticement of a minor.

The FBI investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

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.

Skinner Butte Park summit parking lot is now closed to motorized vehicles due to fire danger. The closure will remain in effect until October.

City of Eugene’s Parks and Open Space, in cooperation with Eugene Springfield Fire, have closed the Skinner Butte parking lot and summit road. It will be closed until sometime in October.

There has been a history of illegal firework activity and brush fires, particularly during the summer season.

Closing this area to vehicles helps reduce that risk. The summit will remain accessible to pedestrians and cyclists (no e-motorcycles) by numerous trails and the paved road that leads to the summit.

University of Oregon Faces $65 Million Budget Shortfall

University of Oregon leaders are working to address a $65 million budget shortfall.

School officials say the financial gap is being caused by declining student enrollment, rising operating costs, and a decrease in grant funding.

Members of the university’s Board of Trustees discussed the issue during a meeting Monday. Board members said they want to make sure any budget changes have as little impact on students as possible.

Trustees plan to closely monitor spending and review the budget every three months. The full budget proposal will be considered at this week’s board meeting.

Oregon Assistant Football Coach Faces DUII Charge

Eugene police say an April traffic crash involving Oregon assistant football coach Rashaad Samples has led to DUII and reckless driving charges.

According to police, the crash happened around 1:43 a.m. on April 12 in a downtown Eugene parking lot. Officers say a Ford F-150 driven by Samples backed into a Dodge Ram.

The driver of the Dodge followed Samples after the collision and alerted him to the crash.

Samples, 31, currently serves as Oregon Football’s assistant head coach and running backs coach. The University of Oregon Athletic Department has not publicly commented on the incident.

Trail improvements planned for Summit Trail at Mount Pisgah

Lane County Parks is upgrading the final half-mile segment of the Summit Trail at Mount Pisgah from Monday, June 8, through Wednesday, July 1. Work will be completed by Oregon Woods.

Improvements include the removal of large rocks and trail obstacles, construction of drainage features to reduce erosion, and placement of new gravel to improve trail stability, accessibility, and drainage. Crews will also level several narrow or uneven sections of trail. The project is designed to create a smoother, safer route to the summit while maintaining the natural character of the trail.

Please anticipate periodic trail closures, delays, and equipment on the trail during construction. Signs will be posted at trail access points to notify visitors of active work areas and temporary restrictions. Work will take place during favorable weather conditions and will focus on minimizing impacts to surrounding natural resources and trail users. 

“We’re excited to make improvements that park users and accessibility advocates have been asking for,” said Lane County Parks Communications and Volunteer Coordinator Laura Linn. “The upgrades are about making one of Lane County’s most popular destinations more accessible to everyone, including all-terrain wheelchair users.”

This project is funded through the Parks Levy. For updates on trail access and project timing, follow Lane County Parks on Facebook or view the levy project map.

Deadline for temporary rent and utility assistance through ReOregon is June 30

The deadline for Intermediate Housing Assistance (IHA) for survivors of the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds is coming soon. Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) administers IHA, which provides temporary rent and utility assistance for renters who lived in the disaster-affected counties of Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, or Marion at the time of the wildfires and have a verified loss.

Survivors have until June 30 to apply for the program, which has expanded eligibility, including higher incomes, so more households can get help. Assistance may last for up to 24 months or until the program’s funding is fully spent.

OHCS encourages any interested folks to reach out to a local community action agency to find out more and get started on an application.

“IHA provides a vital need for renters who are also wildfire survivors to help keep them stably housed as they figure out their permanent housing solution,” said Shannon Marheine, director of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at OHCS. “We encourage anyone who is eligible and hasn’t yet applied to do so as soon as possible. If you know someone might benefit from this program, please spread the word.”

IHA is part of a suite of wildfire recovery programs called ReOregon intended for survivors of the 2020 Labor Day Disasters and is funded by a $422 million Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.

So far, OHCS and its partners have successfully served 401 households with the IHA program.

To learn more about IHA and other ReOregon programs, visit OHCS’ website.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services – OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

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:

Food Finder

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. 

Summer EBT is back to help feed Oregon children during summer break

The Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits (Summer EBT) program is returning in 2026 to help families buy groceries for school-aged children during summer break when they don’t have easy access to healthy meals.

Eligible families can receive a one-time payment of $120 for each child on an Oregon EBT card to buy food. Unused benefits can expire 122 days after they are issued.

Families will get benefits automatically on their Oregon EBT card if they have children between the ages of 6-18 and received one of the following at any time during the 2025-26 school year:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance
• Medicaid, if household income is below 185 percent of the federal poverty level
• Foster care services

Families also may automatically receive benefits if they have children who:

• Were determined by their school to have a status as migrant, houseless or runaway.
• Took part in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
• Attended a Head Start program that was part of the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program.

Families may need to apply if:

• Their household meets income requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.
• Their child attends a school that was part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Important Summer EBT dates:

• June 1, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center opens. Families can call 833-673-7328 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• June 4, 2026 – Benefits are expected to begin issuing to families who are automatically eligible.
• June 5, 2026 – The online application opens and applications begin processing.
• Sept. 1, 2026 – Application deadline.
• Sept. 25, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center closes.

The Summer EBT program is administered by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Department of Education (ODE).

Children cannot receive 2026 Summer EBT benefits in multiple states. The program invites families to apply if they have children living in Oregon during the 2025-26 school year.

Families can learn more about Summer EBT, find application information and get updates by visiting the website at sebt.oregon.gov.

6/5/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

Wildfire Awareness: Oregon Officials Warn 2026 Wildfire Season Could Be Severe – Be Ready

OSP invites Oregon youth to help name new Fish & Wildlife K-9

 – Paws up for OSP’s newest K-9 recruit. The one-year-old red Labrador Retriever is currently training to join K-9 Scout and K-9 Drake to help protect Oregon’s natural resources as part of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation K-9 program. While we’ll always call him “Good Dog,” he’s ready for a new, official name.

OSP is inviting Oregon youth ages 9-17 to help name the new dog. Because the K-9 and its trooper partner are assigned to the Fish and Wildlife Division, suggested names should be wildlife, fish, or outdoors-related.

Contest Rules:

• Entries may be submitted now through June 14, 2026
• Entries must be submitted using the OSP online entry form
• The contest is open to Oregon youth ages 9-17
• One entry per youth
• Suggested names must be wildlife, fish, or outdoors-related
• Finalists will be selected from the submitted entries for statewide voting
• The youth with the winning entry will get a chance to meet the K-9 and receive other recognition items from OSP

Think you’ve got the perfect name? Send in your suggestion and help welcome OSP’s newest K-9 trooper to the team.

OSP’s conservation K-9 program began in 2018 with K-9 Buck, who recently retired from active service. Fish and Wildlife K-9s receive specialized training in wildlife detection, human tracking, and area searches to support investigations into the illegal take of birds, wildlife, and fish around the state. Dogs are trained to detect deer, elk, bear, turkey, waterfowl, salmon, and sturgeon, as well as firearms, shell casings, and other items containing gunpowder residue. Conservation K-9 teams have been instrumental during investigations into poaching, missing persons, and other criminal activity.

The new conservation K-9 team will be stationed at OSP’s La Grande patrol office, joining teams currently based in Bend and Springfield.

The Conservation K-9 program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police and the Oregon Wildlife Foundation. The Oregon Wildlife Foundation maintains the Wildlife Conservation K-9 Fund to help cover expenses associated with the canine members of the Conservation K-9 teams. Donations to the fund support the costs of veterinary care, training equipment, and other essential supplies.

New law protects consumers from predatory high-interest loans

A new law going into effect June 5, House Bill (HB) 4116 (2026), closes a loophole that allowed internet lenders to charge interest rates in excess of Oregon’s limit of 36 percent for consumer finance loans.

Consumer finance loans are unsecured small dollar loans with a term of 60 days or more. Since 2007, consumer finance loans in Oregon have been limited to a 36 percent interest rate. This limit is intended to protect Oregonians from predatory lending practices.

However, in recent years, some lenders have sought to take advantage of a provision in federal law called the Depository Institutions Deregulation and Monetary Control Act of 1980 (DIDMCA) enabling state-chartered banks from other states to export their home state’s interest rate to Oregon.

By partnering with a bank chartered in a state that allows higher interest rates, some lenders have charged Oregonians interest in some cases in excess of 100 percent APR. Since 2020, DFR found evidence of more than 31,000 loans totaling at least $61 million with interest rates that exceed Oregon’s cap.

In a recent enforcement action, DFR was successful in securing a settlement that required a lender to pay restitution of $900,000 for charging interest that exceeded the cap. However, the option to export other states’ interest rates still left Oregon consumers vulnerable to these practices.

DIDMCA allows states to opt out of permitting banks chartered in other states from importing another state’s interest rate. HB 4116, signed into law by Gov. Kotek on April 7, exercises Oregon’s opt-out right under federal law. The law also clarifies the applicability of Oregon law to internet-based lending and makes other technical updates. Now, lenders can no longer take advantage of DIDMCA interest rate exportation to evade Oregon’s interest rate caps.

Oregon consumers should know that if they are charged interest in excess of 36 percent for a consumer finance loan, it is likely in violation of the law. We would strongly encourage any consumers to contact the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation for information, assistance, and, if needed, regulatory action to ensure compliance. Our consumer advocates can be reached at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

Oregon DOJ, Local Child Exploitation Task Force Case Leads to 176-Month Prison Sentence for 56-Year-Old Roseburg Man; Suspect Stockpiled 740,000+ Child Sexual Abuse Files, Among Largest Case in Recent Oregon History

– The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) announced last week that a Roseburg man has been sentenced to 14 years and 8 months in prison after pleading no contest to five counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree. The case was investigated by the Oregon DOJ Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET). The case centered on one of the largest collections of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) ever uncovered in Oregon – more than 740,000 files that the defendant had made available to anyone on a public file-sharing network.

“This is 740,000 instances of a child being exploited and that exploitation being spread,” said Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield. “This man didn’t just possess this material; he made it available to anyone who wanted it. This sentence reflects the severity of those choices, and I commend the dedicated investigators at SOCET and our ICAC Task Force who did the painstaking work to bring this case to justice.”

David Arthur Kelly, 56, of Roseburg, entered his plea this week before Douglas County Circuit Court Judge Kathleen Johnson. Kelly told the judge he had “made a mistake.” Judge Johnson pointed to the sheer volume of files and told Kelly that what he did “was not a mistake, it was a series of repeated decisions to exploit children.”

Between June 2023 and August 2024, investigators with SOCET made nineteen separate connections to Kelly’s computer and downloaded numerous CSAM files through a publicly accessible peer-to-peer file sharing network. The Oregon DOJ ICAC Task Force took over the investigation in October 2024, identified Kelly as the suspect, and executed search warrants at his Roseburg home. What investigators found on his laptop told the full story – a one-terabyte hard drive packed with more than 740,000 CSAM files, every one of them set to share freely over the internet.

The case was prosecuted by Sr. AAG Elijah Michalowski of the DOJ Criminal Justice Division, appointed as Special Prosecutor by Douglas County DA Richard Wesenberg. Kelly was indicted by a Douglas County Grand Jury on November 6, 2025, on ten counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree. Under the terms of a stipulated sentence, he will serve 176 months – just under 15 years – in state prison.

Public comment period opens for Forest Management Plan for western Oregon state forest lands

– The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has filed a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for a proposed rule change to adopt a new Forest Management Plan (FMP) for western Oregon state forest lands managed by the department.

The proposed change to this rule will replace the three current FMPs (Northwest Oregon, Southwest Oregon, and Elliott) with a single FMP for these forest lands. The State Forests Division is pursuing an alternative method for compliance with the federal Endangered Species Act by applying for incidental take permits from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – Fisheries. The incidental take permits will require the division to manage Oregon state forest lands in compliance with a habitat conservation plan.

The Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan contains guiding principles, goals, and strategies that are compatible with the Western Oregon State Forests Habitat Conservation Plan. The Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan provides management direction for all Board of Forestry Lands and Common School Forest Lands managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry west of the crest of the Cascade Range.

The Board of Forestry may review, modify, or terminate a plan at any time; however, the BOF will review the plan no less than every 10 years. The current Southwest and Northwest FMPs were last revised in 2010, while the Elliott FMP was last revised in 2011. More information about State Forests Management Plans can be found here.

Public comments on the proposed rule will be accepted from June 1 to June 30 at 11:55 p.m. A virtual rulemaking hearing will be held on June 25 at 3 p.m.  The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking contains the link to register to attend or provide comment at the hearing.  The notice also includes important details including but not limited to the proposed rule text and instructions for submitting public comments and participating in the hearings.

More information on this rulemaking effort and ongoing updates can be found on the Rulemaking activity page of the ODF website.

Registration Open for the 2026 4-H Wagon Train Along Oregon Trail’s Historic Barlow Road

Families invited to experience Oregon Trail history through immersive weeklong outdoor adventure

SALEM — Registration is open for the 2026 Oregon 4-H Wagon Train, a one-of-a-kind living history experience that invites participants to travel portions of the historic Oregon Trail by horseback, covered wagon and on foot. The 4-H Wagon Train is an outreach program of Oregon State University’s Extension Service. It has been held every year since 1982 and is the only 4-H Wagon Train club in the country.

“The Wagon Train is more than a camp. It’s a transformative experience that connects people to Oregon’s history, the outdoors and each other,” said Wayne Beckwith, a Wagon Train leader whose ancestors traveled the Oregon Trail. “Many families come back year after year because of the friendships, life lessons and memories created along the trail.”

A Living Oregon Trail Experience

The 2026 Wagon Train will take place July 12–18, 2026, along the historic Barlow Road, the final land route pioneers used to reach the Willamette Valley before arriving in Oregon City. Organizers encourage those interested to register by June 28, 2026. Participants do not need prior wagon train experience to participate. They will spend one week immersed in pioneer-style living. They set up camps each night, care for horses, cook outdoors and learn Oregon history and leadership skills while traveling across Oregon landscapes.

Tune-Up Weekend Offers Preview of Wagon Train Experience

In advance of the July trek, the organization will host its annual Tune-Up Weekend June 6–7, 2026, at the Oregon Outdoor Education Center in West Salem. The event offers newcomers and returning participants an opportunity to meet organizers, experience wagon train activities, learn pioneer skills and prepare for the summer journey.

Below are details about the Tune Up event in June and full Wagon Train experience in July:

Tune-Up Weekend Dates:              June 6–7, 2026

Location: Oregon Outdoor Education Center (formerly the Oregon 4-H Center)  390 Four H Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304 

Cost:                $50 per participant. Cost includes all meals. Tune Up cost will be waived if participants sign up for 4-H Wagon Train at the same time.

Registration:    Contact Wayne Beckwith at .muleskinner@gmail.com“>wb.muleskinner@gmail.com or 503-899-0123

2026 Oregon 4-H Wagon Train

Dates:               July 12–18, 2026

Route:               Historic Barlow Road

Cost:                 $350 per participant, plus $50 fee per animal. Cost includes all meals.    Financial assistance is available.

Registration:     Youth Registration —   Adult Registration

Questions about attending the Tune Up or full 4-H Wagon Train Experience? Contact Wayne Beckwith at .muleskinner@gmail.com“>wb.muleskinner@gmail.com or 503-899-0123. More information and registration details are available at: www.4hwagontrain.org.

About the Oregon 4-H Wagon Train

The Oregon 4-H Wagon Train is a nonprofit educational program that provides immersive Oregon Trail experiences for youth, families and volunteers through outdoor living, historical education and leadership development. Founded in 1982, the program is the only 4-H Wagon Train club in the country. It continues to preserve Oregon pioneer history while fostering community, teamwork and lifelong learning.

State Parks Day includes free parking for Oregon residents on June 6

—Every year, Oregon State Parks begins the busier season with a small thank you to Oregon residents — free day-use parking on State Parks Day. 

State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 to celebrate Oregonians’ love for the state park system. On June 6, 2026, Oregon State Parks will waive the day-use parking fees on parks that typically require them for Oregon residents. 

“State Parks Day is a commemoration of the places that connect us to Oregon’s natural beauty and to one another. We appreciate everyone who helps keep these spaces vibrant and welcoming,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Interim Director, Stefanie Coons. 

Park staff have worked hard over the last few months to get the parks ready for the summer season and State Parks Day. The list of projects includes everything from clearing storm damage and downed trees, to upgrades to electrical, water and sewage lines. 

Below are some featured events and activities across the state to help celebrate this traditional day in Oregon. 

State Parks Day Events

• The Cove Palisades
  The Cove Palisades’ annual Festival of The Land invites visitors to reflect on the question “What makes The Cove special to you?” through a celebration of the region’s natural, cultural, and historical richness. Community partners share hands-on learning experiences ranging from wildlife and fire education to farm games and a small farmers’ market. New this year are the Pollination Patrol station and a community “quilt” project honoring what visitors value about the park. The day also features native flute music by award-winning musician James Greeley, along with food and drink vendors.
   
• L.L. Stub Stewart State Park
  At L.L. Stub Stewart, the summer star party series returns with an evening of stargazing hosted by OMSI, Rose City Astronomers, and Oregon State Parks. Visitors of all ages can explore the night sky through telescopes, enjoy an OMSI presentation, and join a park ranger-led nighttime hike that reveals the park’s after-dark wildlife. Held at the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Guests are encouraged to bring warm layers, flashlights (to use only in red-light mode), and even their own telescopes. Pets on leash are welcome, and accessibility accommodations are available with advance notice.
   
• Shore Acres State Park
  Shore Acres State Park transforms its botanical gardens into a hub for plant lovers, with local gardening groups and experts from OSU Master Gardeners to the Southern Oregon Native Plant Society on hand to answer questions and share knowledge. Visitors can enjoy a midday performance by the Side of the Tide Morris Dancers and stop by the historic Garden House for refreshments.
   
• LaPine State Park
  At LaPine State Park, a park ranger-guided hike leads visitors on a 1.5–mile walk to the world’s largest Ponderosa pine, commemorated as “Big Tree.” The route winds past an oxbow lake and through classic Central Oregon forest, offering opportunities to learn about the wildlife and plant communities that thrive in the area.  Registration is required.
   
• Prineville Reservoir State Park
  Calling all young builders! This hands-on celebration invites kids and families to create their very own birdhouse in honor of Oregon State Parks Day. A park ranger will be teaching participants about the diverse bird species that call Oregon home while encouraging creativity and curiosity. All materials, including hammers, gloves, safety glasses, and birdhouse kits, are provided at no cost.

You can see a list of all ongoing Oregon State Park events on the event calendar. 

About State Parks Day
State Parks Day began in 1998 to celebrate the support of visitors around the state. This day serves as an opportunity for Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to welcome, connect, share with and to appreciate Oregonians and Oregon State Parks visitors. It is because of their support that Oregon State Parks are what they are today. 

About Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s (OPRD) mission is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department manages 254 Oregon State Parks comprising more than 100,000 acres. Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov.

Waterway Access Permits Waived for Non-motorized Boats During ODFW Free Fishing Days, June 6 , 7

The Oregon State Marine Board, in partnership with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), will not require non-motorized boat operators to have a waterway access permit in conjunction with free fishing, clamming and crabbing days.

In 2019, when the Waterway Access Permit program was approved by the Oregon Legislature, with an exemption for permit requirements on ODFW-designated Free Fishing Days. In 2025, the program was expanded, requiring all lengths of non-motorized boats to purchase a waterway access permit when operating a boat on the water. One hundred percent (100%) of the revenue supports two important programs: aquatic invasive species watercraft inspection stations, managed by ODFW, and non-motorized access development and facility improvements via OSMB boating facility grants to public facility owners wanting to improve access specifically serving paddlers.

Per ODFW, no fishing/shellfish licenses or tags/validations are required on these days (meaning you do not need a Combined Angling Tag, Columbia River Basin Endorsement, Ocean Endorsement or two-rod validation where two rods are allowed). Both Oregon residents and nonresidents can fish for free. Oregon State Parks also offers free parking on Saturday, June 6.

Existing exemptions include youth 13 and younger, surfboards, sailboards and kiteboards, and non-motorized boats under 10 feet engaged in whitewater recreation activities on a Marine Board Whitewater Exempt Waterways void of any developed access sites. See a list of exemptions on the Marine Board’s Waterway Access Permit FAQ page.

Read ODFW’s Free Fishing Days news release and what rules apply.

For people new to non-motorized boating, visit the Marine Board’s map of waterways designated as restricted motor or electric motor only to help you plan your weekend adventure.

Comments sought on draft State Plan on Aging by June 12

– Oregon’s draft 2026-2030 State Plan on Aging — which shapes how older adults, people with disabilities, their families and other unpaid care providers are served — is available for review. The public is asked to provide comments on the plan to the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) by 5 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2026. To review the draft State Plan and a summary of the plan, visit the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) community engagement webpage.

The plan is developed by APD in consultation with a variety of ODHS councils and commissions, Area Agencies on Aging, Tribal Elders programs and community-based organizations. Community member input was also gathered through a community input session and a community needs survey. The plan is required under the Older Americans Act of 1965. It is a contract with the Administration on Aging, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living and enables Oregon to receive funds under the Older Americans Act.

Oregon’s draft State Plan on Aging for 2026-2030 has four focus areas:

• Older Americans Act (OAA) Core Programs, which include supportive services, nutrition, disease prevention/health promotion and caregiver programs as well as the OAA’s programs for Tribal members and communities including  supporting elder rights.
• Populations with the greatest economic need and greatest social needs
• Access to home and community-based services; and
• Caregiving.

Public input will be used as APD finalizes its proposed State Plan on Aging, which it submits to the federal Administration for Community Living. A public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. Information about the public hearing is posted to the APD community engagement webpage.

To submit comments on the draft State Plan on Aging:

• Email comments to SUA.email@odhsoha.oregon.gov
• Mail comments to:

ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities

Attn: Debbie McCuin

500 Summer St., N.E., E-12

Salem, OR 97301

Learn more about the State Plan on Aging

• Oregon’s current State Plan on Aging
• https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/about-acl/2020-04/Older%20Americans%20Act%20Of%201965%20as%20amended%20by%20Public%20Law%20116-131%20on%203-25-2020.pdf. Click or tap if you trust this link.”>Older Americans Act federal statute
• Federal https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/AoA_Form_Grants_State_Plan_Guidance_508_final.pdf. Click or tap if you trust this link.”>Guidance for Developing State Plans on Aging
• https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-01913.pdf. Click or tap if you trust this link.”>Older Americans Act Final Rule: 2024 final rule to update regulations implementing its Older Americans Act (OAA) programs for States, area agencies on aging and Tribal organizations.

Dozens of new Oregon laws are set to go into effect this week. Here’s a closer look

The new laws address many issues, including the state’s response to aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies and child labor protections

Oregon lawmakers passed more than 50 new laws during the legislative session earlier this year which are scheduled to go into effect on Friday. Many focus on codifying state and local powers to respond to President Donald Trump’s directives, as well as addressing cost-of-living issues.

Democratic leaders in both the Oregon House and Senate explained in a recent news release that the laws are intended to “shield Oregonians from the Trump administration’s brutality and to keep more money in working families’ wallets.” Among the new statutes is one that will disconnect Oregon from some federal tax cuts passed under the GOP’s 2025 federal tax and spending law, which survived a failed Republican-led referendum attempt.

“Oregon lawmakers are fighting back against Trump’s reckless and harmful actions. But that alone isn’t enough. Oregonians are struggling,” said Rep. Willy Chotzen, D-Portland, in a statement. “They need all the relief they can get. As we gear up for the legislative session next year, Oregonians should expect this work to continue. We’re not done.”

Many of the laws going into effect were passed under heightened pressure from progressive groups and left-leaning advocates in Salem, who urged Democrats to assert more state control against the federal government’s aggressive immigration policies, and to buffer state revenue losses from GOP tax cuts and historic cuts to social services. 

Republicans lawmakers slammed many of the proposals from their Democratic colleagues as provoking unnecessary conflict with the federal government, and distracting from what they said is the state’s struggle to spur more economic development, improve public safety and boost educational outcomes.

More bills responding to Trump policies and directives, however, are likely to be forthcoming during the 2027 legislation as Oregon Democrats speak out against attempts to rollback civil rights protections, undermine election integrity, and rescind or withhold clean energy grants, disaster funding and other federal aid to the state. In the meantime, here’s a look at some of the key laws that will go into effect in Oregon on Friday.

Federal response

Data safety: Senate Bill 1587 will prevent state agencies from handing information on Oregonians to data brokers who fail to attest that they will not hand that data to federal immigration enforcement agencies. It’s a watered-down version of a proposal that initially took a broader stab at private data brokers’ handling of Oregonians information, and the bill’s leading sponsor, Sen. Wlnsvey Campos, D-Aloha, has vowed to introduce more legislation on the matter in a future session. 

Hospital boundaries: Senate Bill 1570 requires Oregon hospitals to clearly define which areas of their facilities are open to the public and law enforcement, and which areas require official authorization from the hospital. The bill also makes it illegal for an employer to retaliate against healthcare employees who distribute informational materials for immigrant rights or legal services if those come from a state agency. The measure came in response to concerns about federal agents apprehending immigrants seeking care in Oregon hospitals.

Employer retaliation: House Bill 4111 will outlaw employers from retaliating against workers who update their work authorizations, will place limits on the use of immigration status in civil court cases and add immigration status as a protected category under the state’s anti-profiling laws. Its passage followed a warning to Oregon employers last year from the state’s Bureau of Labor and Industries that threats to call federal immigration authorities on employees after they raise concerns about working conditions are considered illegal retaliation.

Landlord regulation: House Bill 4123 prevents landlords from disclosing tenants’ immigration status and other personal information. If a landlord “knowingly violates” the new law, tenants whose confidential information has been disclosed could seek compensation equal to twice their monthly rent. Protected information under the law includes Social Security numbers and medical or disability records. 

Labor protections: Senate Bill 1518 will require that domestic and homecare workers earn at least minimum wage, which came in response to the Trump administration’s effort last year to undo a federal rule that would ensure these employees receive such pay. Another law, House Bill 4013, ensures Oregon’s child welfare protections are not weakened by any changes to federal child labor laws at a time when the Trump administration has been criticized for lax enforcement of those protections.

Affordability 

Renter payments: Senate Bill 1523 will ensure Oregonians who rent are not forced to make digital payments to their landlords. Instead of requiring tenants to pay via online portals, which can collect personal information and come with fees, the law requires landlords to accept payments via check or “other commercially reasonable methods.” 

Fire safety for homes: Senate Bill 1551 prevents homeowners’ associations and property documents, such as deed restrictions, from impeding owners’ who wish to make fire safety improvements to their homes, such as adding fire-proof siding and roofing, or defensible landscaping.

Housing: Senate Bill 1576 expands the powers of Oregon’s Consumer and Business Services director to adopt rules meant to ensure fair access to housing that are more stringent than federal accessibility regulations. Another housing measure, House Bill 4082, allows Oregon cities to widen their urban growth boundaries for housing developments such as those serving older adults and for manufactured home parks.

Loaning rules: Senate Bill 1567 creates low-interest loans for mixed-income housing production in Oregon, and House Bill 4116 closes what lawmakers called “loopholes” in Oregon law that allowed some consumer lenders to charge interest rates of 100% or higher.

Ticket sales: House Bill 4024 bans people affiliated with ticket resellers, or resellers themselves, from offering tickets for an event that they do not possess. Under the law, the seller must have a written contract to obtain the ticket from an initial sale before reselling it. The law comes as many Oregonians and Americans have complained about inflated ticket prices, or vendors selling tickets they don’t have on misleading websites.

“Oregon Democrats are fighting to make sure that powerful interests — including the Trump administration — don’t abuse Oregonians or take away their rights,” said House Majority Leader Rep. Ben Bowman, D-Tigard, in a statement. “That includes cracking down on predatory lending and ticket scams, protecting workers and immigrants and giving homeowners flexibility.” (SOURCE)

Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation Partners with Applied Underwriters Invitational for 2026 Golf Classic

Aurora, OR — Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) is proud to announce its partnership with the Applied Underwriters Invitational, recognized as The #1 Charity Event in Golf, for the 2026 OLSHF Golf Classic on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Langdon Farms Golf Club.

Through this partnership, OLSHF joins a nationwide network of charitable organizations supported by Applied Underwriters and the Applied Underwriters Invitational in strengthening communities and championing those in need. Each year, more than 11,000 golfers participate in approximately 75 tournaments benefitting over 65 national and local charities across the United States. Since its inception, the Invitational has hosted more than 4,400 tournaments and generated over $276 million in net proceeds for benefiting charities nationwide.

“We are honored to partner with the Applied Underwriters Invitational and Applied Underwriters to expand the impact of our Golf Classic,” said Kate Mayne, Marketing & Events Manager for Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation. “This event brings together community leaders, businesses, golfers, and supporters who believe every Oregonian deserves access to vital sight and hearing services.”

The 2026 OLSHF Golf Classic will feature a full day of golf, community engagement, contests, raffle opportunities, and celebration, all benefiting OLSHF programs that provide critical sight and hearing assistance throughout Oregon.

Event Details

 Langdon Farms Golf Club
 Monday, June 29, 2026
⏰ Registration + Chipping & Putting Contest Open: 11:00 AM
⛳ Shotgun Start: 1:30 PM

Participants will enjoy a hot dog buffet lunch prior to play, followed by the Farm Fiesta Awards Dinner and raffle ticket drawing after the tournament.

Golfers, sponsors, and community supporters are invited to participate and help make a difference for Oregonians in need of sight and hearing services.

?️ Raffle Tickets: olshf.org/raffle
? Event Information & Registration: olshf.org/golf
? Questions or Volunteer Opportunities: marketing@olshf.org

About Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation — Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation has served Oregon communities since 1959 by providing essential sight and hearing programs, assistance, and outreach throughout the state. Supported by Lions clubs, partners, and donors, OLSHF works to ensure Oregonians have access to critical sight and hearing care regardless of financial circumstances.

About Applied Underwriters Invitational — The Applied Underwriters Invitational, supported by title sponsor Applied Underwriters, is recognized as The #1 Charity Event in Golf. The Invitational partners with charitable organizations nationwide to host impactful tournaments that strengthen communities and support meaningful causes. Learn more at auw.com.

An effort to ban the killing of animals for food in Oregon has cleared a major hurdle on its path to the November ballot.

Supporters of Initiative Petition 28 have gathered enough signatures to qualify the measure for consideration. The proposal would make it illegal to intentionally injure or kill animals, effectively banning hunting, fishing, and many animal breeding practices in Oregon.

The petition drive began in 2024 and recently reached the required signature threshold. However, the measure is not officially on the ballot yet. The Oregon Secretary of State’s Office must first verify the submitted signatures before it can move forward.

Oregon’s classroom cell phone ban appears to be having a positive impact nearly a year after it was introduced.

Last year, Governor Tina Kotek signed an executive order requiring schools to limit student cell phone use during the school day. Districts across the state were required to implement policies by the start of the current school year.

Many schools use a two-strike system, giving students a warning for a first offense and confiscating the device after a second violation.

Teachers say they’ve already noticed improvements in the classroom. With fewer distractions, students are spending more time engaged in lessons and interacting with classmates. Educators report seeing more face-to-face conversations and less time spent focused on screens.

The restrictions apply not only to cell phones, but also to smart watches, tablets, and other personal devices capable of connecting to the internet.

BLM celebrates Freedom 250 with public events across Oregon

The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence through three public events across Oregon in 2026. The events foster a deeper appreciation of our nation’s past, the beauty and value of public lands, and the work it takes to sustain the health and productivity of these lands for the use and enjoyment of generations to come.

The events are part of the national Freedom 250 commemoration and also recognize the BLM’s 80th anniversary of public land stewardship.

Featured Freedom 250 Events:

1. Oregon Trail Days – Baker City, Ore.

When: Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Where: Geiser-Pollman Park, Baker City, Ore.

The signature Freedom 250 event for BLM Oregon/Washington, Oregon Trail Days transforms Geiser-Pollman Park into an immersive Oregon Trail experience featuring wagon rides, storytelling, live demonstrations, music, crafts, and games.
The free, family-friendly celebration highlights the role public lands play in preserving the landscapes and stories tied to America’s westward expansion. Additional programming will also take place at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center throughout the weekend.

2. Wood River Wetland Volunteer Day – Near Klamath Falls, Ore.

When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PT

Where: Wood River Wetland, approximately 30 miles north of Klamath Falls, Ore.

This Freedom 250 volunteer event invites the community to assist with invasive weed removal and restoration work on public lands.

The event highlights the continued role Americans play in caring for public lands through volunteerism and stewardship.

3. Victorian Holiday Celebration – Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Where: Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, near Newport, Ore.

This coastal Freedom 250 event connects visitors to Oregon’s maritime history through a Victorian-themed holiday celebration at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

Activities may include caroling, historical parlor games, ornament crafts, interpretive storytelling, and live music.

As a dedicated custodian of America’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, the Bureau of Land Management in Oregon and Washington proudly celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence with the nation.

From iconic landmarks like Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area to the historic Oregon Trail, BLM-administered public lands represent the spirit of the nation’s foundational principles. These events honor stories of exploration, resilience, stewardship, and public service woven throughout America’s history.

Weekend Train Rides Return to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for the 2026 Season

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Rail Heritage Center is excited to announce the return of its popular weekend train rides. Running every Saturday and Sunday through October 11, 2026, these family-friendly excursions offer passengers a memorable rail adventure through the heart of Portland aboard historic diesel locomotive BNSF 3613.

Celebrate Father’s Day Weekend with a Special Steam Train Ride at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Historic Polson #2 Steam Locomotive Returns for a Memorable Family Experience

PORTLAND, Ore. — Families, train enthusiasts, and dads of all ages are invited to celebrate Father’s Day weekend with a one-of-a-kind steam train experience at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21.

Guests will enjoy a nostalgic excursion powered by the legendary Polson #2 steam locomotive, offering the sights, sounds, and excitement of classic rail travel. Riders can feel the rumble of the locomotive, hear the iconic whistle, and experience the magic of traveling behind a living piece of railroad history.

This Father’s Day themed event includes festive décor and an onboard bar featuring snacks and refreshments available for purchase, making it the perfect outing for families looking to create lasting memories together.

Whether celebrating Dad, introducing children to historic trains, or simply enjoying a unique Portland experience, these special rides offer something for everyone.

Event Details:

• When: Saturday, June 20 & Sunday, June 21
• Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
• Train Departure Times: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm
• Tickets Prices:
  • Adults (14+) – $24
  • Seniors (65+) – $21.50
  • Military (with ID) – $21.50
  • Children (3-13) – $17
  • Infants (Under 3) – Free
  • Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children) – $74
• Tickets & Registration: https://orhf.org/

Train tickets include admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center—making it the perfect outing for train lovers, families, and visitors of all ages.

Perfect for families, visitors, and train enthusiasts of all ages, the scenic rides provide a unique opportunity to experience Portland from the rails. Guests can choose between riding in an open-air car or relaxing in a vintage air-conditioned coach while enjoying views of Portland’s skyline, the Willamette River, local wildlife, and the timeless charm of Oaks Park.

Each train ticket also includes admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, where visitors can explore Portland’s rich railroad history and get an up-close look at historic locomotives and rail equipment.

Event Details:

• When: Saturdays & Sundays, May 23 – October 11, 2026
• Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
• Train Departure Times: 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm
• Tickets Prices:
  • Adults (14+) – $17
  • Seniors (65+) – $15
  • Military (with ID) – $15
  • Children (3-13) – $12
  • Infants (Under 3) – Free
  • Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children) – $50
• Tickets & Registration: https://orhf.org/

About Oregon Rail Heritage Center:

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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.

Two Oregon Retailers Sell Jackpot Wins in Same Drawing

For months, no tickets matched the winning numbers for Oregon’s Game Megabucks and the jackpot continued to build to $11.1 million. But on April 13, after eight months without a win, two tickets matched all six numbers. 

One ticket was sold at US Market 180, located at 1709 Hill Street SE in Albany. It’s the first jackpot win for co-owners Rupinder Kaur and Parveen Sidhu, who earn a bonus check of $56,000 for selling the winning ticket. 

Kaur said her daughter works in the store and sold the winning ticket to one of their regular customers, who was excited about the big win. 

“She sold it and was also working when he scanned it in the store,” said Kaur. “She said to the customer, ‘Did you check your Megabucks ticket? Maybe you are the winner? Let’s find out together.’” 

The store has been an Oregon Lottery retailer since 2007. Kaur said they plan to use some of the bonus money to make upgrades, including adding a cooler for fresh food and upgrading their fountain soda machine to offer more options.

The second winning ticket was sold at the 7-Eleven store at 11111 SW Capitol Highway in Portland. That store also received a $56,000 bonus and the winner has claimed their prize.

Oregon’s Game Megabucks has some of the most favorable big prize jackpot game odds in the world. In 2025, a Eugene man was the winner of an $8.1 million Megabucks jackpot. The jackpot resets to $1 million after someone wins. 

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim any prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year from the date of a drawing to claim their prize. 

Media can access photos from today’s celebration at the US Market 180 store in Albany at this link. 

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.8 billion for economic development, public schools, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

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 16^th in the area of Birch Street and 2^nd 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 16^th, 2025, please call the Junction City Police Department at 541-998-1245.

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