The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Friday, July 3, 2026
Willamette Valley Weather
Be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast
Happy 4th of July! It is a truly historic Independence Day as the nation commemorates its 250th anniversary. Whether you are celebrating with family, a local BBQ, or taking in the fireworks, enjoy a safe and memorable holiday weekend!
June–July 1776
Ratified
July 4, 1776; 250 years ago
Oregon State Fire Marshal urges Oregonians to check fireworks restrictions, keep celebrations legal and safe
– As fireworks sales beganTuesday, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is reminding people to celebrate the Fourth of July responsibly and legally. The 2026 fireworks retail sales season in Oregon runs from June 23 through July 6, and the agency’s message is clear: “Keep it legal. Keep it safe.” As Oregonians make plans for the holiday, they’re urged to check local rules and restrictions on both the sale and use of fireworks, whether celebrating at home or traveling.
“Before lighting any fireworks, make sure you know what’s allowed where you are,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Deputy Mark Johnston said. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but it’s critical to follow the law and avoid actions that could cause a fire or injury.”
Local governments across Oregon may set additional restrictions on the sale or use of fireworks, especially in areas at higher risk of wildfires. It’s the responsibility of those using fireworks to understand and follow local laws.
Fireworks safety and legal reminders — Consumer-legal fireworks may be purchased only from permitted retailers and stands. These fireworks may not be used on:
- Public lands and parks
- National parks and forests
- Bureau of Land Management lands
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service properties
- Oregon state beaches, parks, and campgrounds
- Private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry
To help reduce the risk of fire and injury, fire officials urge Oregonians to follow the four Bs of safe fireworks use:
- Be prepared: Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
- Be safe: Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
- Be responsible: Do not relight duds. Soak used fireworks in water before disposal.
- Be aware: Use only legal fireworks and only where they are allowed.
Illegal fireworks and consequences
Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any fireworks that fly into the air, explode, or travel more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit from the state fire marshal. This includes items such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers.
Violations are a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or are found to be responsible for them causing damage may be held financially responsible for fire suppression and other costs. Parents can also be held liable for damage caused by their children.
Learn more — The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers resources on fireworks laws, retail sale permits, and safety tips on its fireworks webpage.
For a safe celebration this Fourth of July, know the law, check local restrictions, and always keep it legal and safe.
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL — Since 1917, the Oregon State Fire Marshal has been dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The agency works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office after becoming an independent state agency in 2023.
City of Eugene Government and Parks & Open Space, City of Eugene Government
A spark can ignite a wildfire in just moments 
With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, please remember that fireworks are prohibited in the following areas:
Within Eugene city limits, including parks and natural areas Parks & Open Space, City of Eugene Government
Lane County open space, parks and recreation areas
Federally or state-managed areas like Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service and Oregon State Parks
Help keep our parks and natural areas green and safe for everyone (including wildlife!) by keeping fireworks out.
Enjoy Independence Day and stay safe this year – find an event with professional fireworks to watch. https://www.eugenecascadescoast.org/events/fourth-of-july/
For events at Oregon State Parks including several Fourth of July celebrations, find the event calendar at https://stateparks.oregon.gov. We also encourage visitors to know before they go when it comes to campfire restrictions and any closures during this wildfire season. Learn more on our website.
— PLEASE Be Respectful and Remember Your Neighbors —
Oregon Department Of Emergency Management Encourages Oregonians To Prioritize Fire Safety As They Celebrate The 4th Of July To Ensure A Safe And Enjoyable July 4th Holiday For Everyone
The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, filled with fireworks, barbecues, and outdoor fun. But with all the excitement, it’s important to prioritize fire safety to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone. Eighty-five percent of wildfires are started by humans—many times with fireworks and campfires.
Whether you are celebrating at home or traveling out of the area, know the latest road conditions, check if you are visiting an area near a wildfire, make sure you are signed up for Oregon emergency alerts, activate Federal Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone, understand the evacuation levels, and make sure you have an emergency kit in your car—stay safe and don’t be the spark this holiday.
Fireworks—Keep it Legal. Keep it Safe.
Fireworks are a staple of Independence Day, but they can also be dangerous. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display organized by professionals. There are plenty of places you can see coastal displays, Portland area displays, the southern Willamette Valley, as well as other parts of Oregon. If you choose to use consumer fireworks, follow these precautions – including:
- Always check local regulations before lighting fireworks in your area.
- Never give fireworks to small children and keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergencies.
- Light fireworks one at a time and never attempt to relight a dud.
- Maintain a safe distance from fireworks and never point them at people, animals, or structures.
- Remember, all fireworks are banned on public lands. This includes state and federal parks.
Campfire and Outdoor Fire Safety—Don’t be the Spark.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department maintains a state parks campfire/flame restrictions in page, the Oregon Department of Forestry maintains one for state lands, and the Bureau of Land management maintains a list for federal land. If your celebration includes a campfire or fire pit, follow these guidelines:
- Check if fires are allowed where you are camping.
- Keep flames small—about knee height—to prevent embers from drifting into trees or dry areas. If the wind picks up embers, put the fire out.
- Use designated fire rings—they’re placed in safe areas with buffers of at least 25 feet away from tents and vegetation. Use outdoor fireplaces and fire pits only in well-ventilated areas.
- Always have water nearby to fully extinguish the fire—douse, stir the embers, and ensure everything is wet.
- Beach fires belong on open sand—keep them away from driftwood and plants. Pour water slowly to avoid spraying hot sand. Never use sand to smother the fire—it traps heat and can cause burns later.
- Propane fire rings require the same precautions as wood fires—rules may vary by location.
- Never leave a fire unattended—many accidents happen when campers step away for just a minute. Ensure everyone, including kids, understands fire safety.
Grilling Safety
Backyard barbecues are a great way to celebrate, but they also pose fire hazards. Keep these tips in mind:
- Place your grill away from overhanging branches, siding, or deck railings.
- Never grill indoors and always supervise the grill while in use.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill.
- Use long-handled tools designed for grilling to prevent burns.
Additional Fire Risks
- Discarded cigarettes – a single lit cigarette tossed carelessly can spark a wildfire.
- Equipment malfunctions – sparks from machinery, vehicles, or electrical failures can ignite dry vegetation.
- Dragging metal – loose chains or parts dragging on the road can create sparks.
- Exhaust system failures – Worn-out catalytic converters and exhaust components can emit hot carbon particles.
- Brake pad wear – thin brake pads can cause metal-on-metal contact, generating fire-causing sparks.
- Low tire pressure – driving on exposed rims due to low tire pressure can throw sparks.
- Parking on dry grass – hot exhaust parts can ignite dry vegetation on contact.
- Electrical system failures – faulty wiring or damaged electrical components can lead to vehicle fires.
- Fuel system leaks – gasoline leaks can ignite from heat or sparks.
By following the above fire safety tips and being aware of all the ways fires can spark, you can enjoy a fun and safe Fourth of July celebration.
7/3/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today
Rare American Flag Displayed at Full Size at the Oregon Historical Society for First Time Following Conservation
Portland, OR — This July Fourth, visitors to the Oregon Historical Society (OHS) will have a rare opportunity to see what is believed to be the first U.S. flag raised in Portland following Oregon’s statehood. Hand-sewn in 1861 by Portland resident Ann Elizabeth Bills, the 9-by-6-foot flag is displayed at full size for the first time after undergoing conservation work earlier this year.
“One of the most cherished objects in our museum collection, the “Bills flag” connects us to a pivotal moment in Oregon history,” said OHS Boyle Family Executive Director Kerry Tymchuk. “Displaying it at full size allows visitors to appreciate both the original craftsmanship of Ann Bills and the careful conservation that will allow the flag to be shared for generations to come.”
Preserved in OHS’s museum collection since 1911, the Bills flag has been displayed several times folded within a case to protect the fragile materials. In preparation for Oregon’s America 250 commemoration, the flag underwent conservation so it can now be safely exhibited at its full dimensions for visitors to experience as it would have appeared more than 165 years ago.
Accompanying the display are three rare historical documents on loan from collector Bill Leslie. A document printed in 1774 details the proceedings of the First Continental Congress, while two maps from around 1817 illustrate how the young United States envisioned its expanding boundaries and territories. Together, these materials place the Bills flag within the broader story of the nation’s founding and expansion.
This special America 250 Oregon display is on view at the Oregon Historical Society’s museum in downtown Portland now through July 6, 2026. Museum hours are 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday and 12pm to 5pm on Sunday. Admission is free every day for youth 17 and under, OHS members, and Multnomah County residents, who provide crucial operational support through the Oregon Historical Society levy. Learn more and plan your visit at ohs.org/visit.
About the Oregon Historical Society — For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.
Fire Restrictions: BLM Enforces Strict Fire Restrictions Ahead of 4th of July Weekend
– With national firefighting resources already stretched to their limits, statewide fire restrictions remain in effect for all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout Oregon and Washington. Local regions have also implemented additional emergency closures.
As the Independence Day holiday weekend approaches, officials warn that individuals responsible for starting wildfires face up to $100,000 in fines, 12 months in prison, and liability for all firefighting suppression costs.
“There are serious consequences for starting a wildfire, including fines and possibly imprisonment, which we hope everyone can avoid through careful choices,” said Josh O’Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. “We have already experienced excruciating loss this season. I cannot stress the gravity of the situation enough. Please help protect our firefighters and communities.”
Visitors should research their destinations in advance, as local restrictions address questions of when visitors can use power tools, what kinds of stoves or campfires are allowed, and what type of safety equipment to have on hand.
The following items remain strictly prohibited on all BLM lands in Oregon and Washington:
- Fireworks and sky lanterns
- Exploding or metallic targets
- Tracer or incendiary devices
- Steel component ammunition (core or jacket)
“Lighting a firework or leaving a smoldering campfire creates significant wildland fire risk. Under the right conditions, they easily start wildfires,” said Kim Prill, BLM Oregon/Washington Acting State Director. “Don’t risk it. Let’s work together to prevent every wildfire possible.”
For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.
Leave fireworks at home when visiting Oregon State Parks and the ocean shore
Oregon State Parks encourages parkgoers to leave the fireworks to the professionals for Fourth of July celebrations. Fireworks and explosives are strictly prohibited within Oregon State Parks and the entire ocean shore. However, from the coast to the Snake River, nearby cities and towns have local celebrations and fireworks shows to attend.
Fireworks pose a significant danger to visitors, wildlife, structures and the natural landscape particularly in crowded areas where high winds and flammable vegetation increase the inherent risks of fireworks.
“Just one rogue spark can create a wildfire,” said OPRD Emergency Manager Jamen Lee. “We work closely with our local partners to minimize the risk of fires and ask that visitors follow any fire restrictions.”
Each year, volunteers collect trash following the Fourth of July resulting in thousands of pounds of debris. One volunteer group alone collected 231 pounds of trash from just four beaches around Lincoln City – that’s nearly 60 pound per beach!
“We ask that visitors respect fireworks restrictions and clean up after their celebrations to protect Oregon State Parks and the ocean shore,” said Laurel Hillmann, ocean shore resource coordinator at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
While education remains the primary focus for rule enforcement at Oregon State Parks, rangers do have the authority to issue citations. Staff at Oregon State Parks ask that visitors enjoy the holiday responsibly and leave fireworks and explosives at home.
OPRD also encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to fire restrictions during this wildfire season. Fire restrictions are coordinated with local and state fire districts. Certain parts of the coast also do not allow fires on beaches. Learn more on our website.
Resources:
- OPRD beach safety web page.
- OPRD beach fire safety video (YouTube).
- Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks:
Here’s how Oregon is celebrating America’s 250th year of independence
From Bigfoot to time capsules, the America 250 Oregon Commission awarded 80 grants across Oregon to support local history, culture and art
Bigfoot is officially helping Oregon celebrate the country’s 250th birthday.
This September, the Dallas Area Visitors Center will host its second annual Bigfootstock, a one-day festival rooted in local folklore and the town’s rural identity that brings together educators, agritourism businesses and tribal partners.
“Through storytelling, cultural exchange, and educational experiences and of course music, the festival highlights the voices and traditions that shape our region and reflect the broader American story,” said Sarrah McMaster, treasurer of the Dallas Area Visitors Center.
The quirky, family-friendly event is one of 80 projects across Oregon that received a grant from the America 250 Oregon Commission, which over the course of four rounds awarded nearly $250,000 to groups highlighting the state’s unique traditions, cultures and history ahead of the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Gov. Tina Kotek in 2024 signed a law creating the commission, tasking it with coordinating the state’s celebration of the country’s 250th birthday.
The commission recognized early that there isn’t a single correct way to honor the country’s 250th year of independence.
Instead, it adopted seven broad guidelines to give local organizations the freedom to honor the state’s heritage and culture in their own unique ways, said Kerry Tymchuk, commission chair and executive director of the Oregon Historical Society.
“There’s projects that honor veterans, there are projects that promote civics and history education, there’s projects that honor Oregon’s tribes, of course, who were here long before 1776,” Tymchuk said. “Oregon’s official state motto is, ‘she flies with her own wings,’ and this proves that right. There’s just so many unique ideas that the commission was proud to support.”
A nonpartisan, bipartisan celebration across Oregon
The funding was split equally between rural and urban organizations, Tymchuk said, adding that the commission worked hard to ensure it was a nonpartisan and bipartisan celebration.
In Umatilla County, the Heritage Station Museum is collecting letters from community members to place in a time capsule that will be stored in its climate-controlled collection until 2076.
The museum received $3,000 from the state commission to buy archival paper, marketing materials and boxes to place in local libraries where community members can submit their letters and materials for the time capsule’s closing ceremony in September.
“We’re actually creating an index so that we’ll know who contributed, and that way in 50 years if someone wants to look back and see if their ancestor put anything in there, they’ll be able to look that up,” said museum executive director Shannon Gruenhagen. To see the full list of grant recipients, visit the America 250 Oregon Commission website.
At the Oregon Art Center in Portland, a $3,000 grant will help cover the cost for a curator to put together an exhibit featuring art from its teachers, student artists as well as award-winning artists that have been featured in the gallery before. The grant will also pay for the center’s 100th birthday celebration during a free event on Sept. 3 with live music and catered food.
“Our mission is really to make art accessible, and this grant certainly has helped us make this big milestone for us even more impactful for our community,” Oregon Art Center coexecutive director Emma Wallace told the Capital Chronicle.
Several groups received grants to honor veterans, including the Central Oregon-based nonprofit Warrior Impact. The nonprofit is using its $4,000 America 250 grant to cover the cost of a spot in one of its retreats meant to help veterans and first responders experiencing post-traumatic stress.
Warrior Impact offers free rafting, hiking and horse therapy retreats led by fellow veterans and first responders to help people find purpose and process their trauma. A third of participants come from out of state, said Matt Bassit, the nonprofit’s founder and president.
“We’re completely volunteer based, so we’re very efficient with the dollars we have, but it’s still costly,” Bassitt said. “The more we can raise, the more we can actually build this thing into a world-class organization.”
Other groups are using grant funding to highlight Oregon’s Indigenous community, including the Oregon Children’s Theatre in Portland. The theatre is using its $3,000 grant to support the writing process and hiring of actors for its new musical, “The Mountain & The Raven.”
Native creatives, including play director Jeanette Harrison of the Native Performing Arts Network and Taya Dixon, a resident artist at Hillsboro’s nonprofit theatre company Bag&Baggage Productions, will help develop the musical. Dixon is writing it alongside Oregon Children’s Theatre Producing Artistic Director Jenn Hartman Luck. The musical will premiere in 2028.
“We want to celebrate Native voices and experiences through this project,” Hartman Luck said in an email. “Our goal is to tour this show, ‘The Mountain and the Raven,’ across the state of Oregon, bringing this important story about identity, land, grief, and acceptance, to young people in many communities. Especially to many communities that really don’t have the opportunity to come to Downtown Portland for theatre experiences.”
Upcoming America 250 events at the Oregon State Capitol and Oregon Historical Society
Beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, the Oregon State Capitol will host a free “A Passport to History and Democracy” event featuring live music, apple pie and the opportunity to explore inside and outside the capitol.
And at 3 p.m. July 8 — the date the Declaration of Independence was first read aloud to citizens — the Oregon Historical Society in Portland will participate in a nationwide, simultaneous reading of the national document. State leaders will take turns reading the document.
The Salem Philharmonia Orchestra will perform a free concert at the Oregon State Capitol State Park at 11 a.m. July 10. — (SOURCE)
Check out Oregon State Parks with your library card
Borrow an Oregon State Parks parking permit for free at 82 libraries statewide.
– Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) and the State Library of Oregon are partnering to offer free state parks parking permits to Oregon public libraries. There are currently 200 parking permits available at 82 libraries across the state.
“Oregon’s state parks are for everyone,” said OPRD deputy director JR Collier. “As we assess ways to manage our budget responsibly, we also want to uplift equitable access to our parks.”
Each participating library received up to four parking permits. These are the physical hang tags you check out from the library and put in your car. The permit covers parking in all Oregon State Parks day-use areas for one vehicle. Go to the Oregon State Parks website to find participating libraries. All you need to participate is your library card.
“Libraries help make life more affordable for Oregonians. This program leverages the existing borrowing system to help connects folks of all income levels with the beauty and splendor of Oregon’s State Parks,” said Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian.
Both OPRD and the State Library contributed 100 parking permits to the program to distribute to libraries. The agencies determined how many passes each library would receive based on interest from the library, its proximity to a park charging a day use fee, and the size of the population it serves. The State Library purchased permits with Library Services and Technology Act funds from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.
OPRD first distributed parking permits to 28 libraries as part of a year-long pilot program starting in August 2024. Those passes were checked out more than 2,100 times. At the pilot’s conclusion, OPRD evaluated how to best move the program forward in the context of its changing fees. In 2027, OPRD and the State Library will continue to explore options for an expanded long-term program that will serve even more libraries and people in Oregon. Learn more about the OPRD Library Pass Program.
The Crater Lake Trolley season has officially commenced, and reservations are now open for guided, interactive tours around Oregon’s sole national park, Crater Lake.
Each tour accommodates up to 18 individuals, with the option for an additional six to eight walk-up guests. Ticket prices are set at $44 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and children, while those aged six and under can ride for free.
Group rates may also be offered. There are six tours scheduled daily, each lasting two hours, operating seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to arrive one hour prior to their scheduled time for check-in and boarding. The interactive nature of the tour includes a knowledgeable guide who provides insights into the park’s history, making it suitable for all ages. The trolley makes approximately six stops at scenic overlooks, allowing guests to take selfies, capture family portraits, or explore the surroundings.
According to TripAdvisor, these trolley tours are rated as the top attraction at the park, boasting an impressive 4.6-star rating based on 149 reviews.
Drinking and Boating? Enhanced Boating Patrols July 3 – 5
The Oregon State Marine Board, in partnership with marine law enforcement across the state, will be participating in Operation Dry Water, July 3rd through July 5th, as part of a nationally coordinated effort to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities related to boating under the influence of intoxicants (BUII).
BUII includes consumption of prescription drugs, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, or any combination impairing a person’s ability to operate a boat safely. The effects of drugs and alcohol are amplified on the water due to the combined impacts of environmental stressors like sun glare, wind, wave motion, and other factors. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, making sudden immersion into cold water increase the risk of drowning, particularly if the person is not wearing a life jacket.
Impaired boaters face serious penalties. The consequences of a BUII conviction include possible jail time, a $6,250 fine, and loss of boating privileges. Marine officers can legally obtain blood, breath, or urine if a boater fails field sobriety tests. If a boat driver retrieves a boat from the water onto a boat trailer, they could be charged with Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII).
“Recreational boating is a relatively safe activity when boating sober, wearing life jackets, and staying aware of the surroundings,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. So far this year, the common denominators for boating fatalities are not wearing a life jacket, falling overboard, and alcohol consumption.
If you see an impaired operator or someone who is operating in a way that threatens others’ safety, boaters are encouraged to call 911 to file a report. Remember the boat type and characteristics, number of passengers, describe the observed behavior, nearest boat ramp, and, if possible, the boat’s registration number/letters at the bow.
For more information about Operation Dry Water, visit www.operationdrywater.org.
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.
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.
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’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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