Willamette Valley News, Friday 7/17 – Linn County Fair, Asian Celebration, 5th Street Public Market Fest & 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, July 17, 2026

Willamette Valley Weather

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

The 5th Street Public Market Is Celebrating Its 50th Anniversary

5th Street Market will host a 5th Street Public Market History Art Show at Inn at the 5th on July 17 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Maple Room. The exhibition will feature historic photographs, archival materials and visual storytelling pieces that trace the evolution of the district.

The centerpiece of the 50th anniversary celebration will be Market Fest, a free event taking place Saturday, July 18, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, July 19, from noon to 5 p.m. The weekend will feature high-flying aerialists, gravity-defying acrobats, whimsical circus performers, live music and classic carnival treats.

5th Street Public Market is identified by Travel Lane County as a premier tourist attraction in Eugene. Unique, lively, diverse, entertaining, special, vibrant, memorable are terms used by the community to describe the essence of the market and its business. They are celebrating 50 years now!

Situated in the heart of downtown Eugene, the 5th Street Public Market is the area’s premier shopping destination. This locally owned property is the cornerstone of the 5th Avenue Historic Market District, an area that boasts interesting and unique shops, fine restaurants, boutique hotels, co-working space and luxury apartments, making it the hub of Eugene’s retail shopping area in the downtown core. 

You can enjoy a colorful collection of unique and enchanting stores and locally owned restaurants and cafés that offer everything from boutique fashion, jewelry and décor, to specialty products, beauty treatments, and delicious food and drink. Flower baskets and landscape abound, providing a feel of paradise!

BLM Launches Hiring Push to Accelerate Timber Production  

When: Friday, July 17, 2026 
9:00 AM-11:00 AM & 12:00 PM-2:00 PM 

Where: WorkSource Land 
2510 Oakmont Way 
Eugene, OR 97401 

Who: Matt Betenson, Northwest Oregon District Manager 

EUGENE, Ore. – BLM officials have announced an exciting hiring opportunity to boost staffing related to critical priorities, including domestic timber production. Using direct hire authorities, the BLM aims to hire about 130 forestry technicians, survey technicians, and equipment operators across western Oregon. Emphasis will be placed on hiring local community members through the use of the new Field Unit Local hiring authority. 

As part of this effort, the BLM will host an informational job fair. Current BLM employees will be on hand to speak with potential applicants about the types of jobs available and how to apply. 

Participants can register for the event ahead of time. Registration is not required for attendance, and attendance at the fair is not required as part of the job application process. 

Matt Betenson, Northwest Oregon District Manager, is available for media interviews between now and the date of the career fair. BLM officials also invite the media to attend the career fair.  

RSVP: To coordinate either opportunity, media should contact Public Affairs Officer Joey Nikirk (k@ios.doi.gov” rel=”noreferrer noopener” style=”margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; text-decoration: none;” target=”_blank”>joey_nikirk@ios.doi.gov). 

-BLM-  The BLM manages roughly 245 million acres of public land located primarily in the 11 Western states and Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. In fiscal year 2018, the diverse activities authorized on BLM-managed lands generated $105 billion in economic output across the country. This economic activity supported 471,000 jobs and contributed substantial revenue to the U.S. Treasury and state governments, mostly through royalties on minerals.  

Get ready for summer fun at the Linn County Fair, July 17–19 in Albany!

This family-friendly event features live entertainment, carnival rides, delicious fair food, livestock shows, and exhibits showcasing local talent. Don’t miss out on the hometown charm and excitement! https://www.linncountyfair.com/ https://www.facebook.com/events/1230312838613483

Asian Celebration This Saturday!

The Oregon Asian Celebration is a free, family-friendly cultural event that brings together community members from across Eugene, Lane County, and Oregon to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, immigrant, refugee and allied communities.

The 2026 Celebration is expected to welcome approximately 5,000 attendees for a full day of cultural performances, food, marketplace vendors, youth activities, exhibits, community booths and cross-cultural learning.

Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Alton Baker Park FREE!

Produced by Asian Council with support from an Art in the Parks grant by Parks & Open Space, City of Eugene Government and Cultural Services, City of Eugene.

LCSO #26-3491 – LCSO Deputies and Fire Personnel Respond to Drowning on the Willamette River

On July 14th at around 4:40pm, LCSO Marine Patrol deputies were notified of a water rescue in the Willamette River.  A group of people floating the river hit a snag in the water. Most of the group made it to the riverbank, but one person was missing. 

Eugene Springfield Fire and Rescue located the missing male face down in the water and quickly transported him to a local area hospital for treatment. Tragically, the man did not survive. The deceased has been identified as 26-year-old Ervan Dominick Lucia of Harrisburg.  

The investigation revealed Lucia was operating a paddleboard without a lifejacket, and he was tethered to his paddleboard. The Lane County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone to wear a properly fitting lifejacket anytime you are using Lane County waterways. Tethering yourself to equipment is always dangerous. If you are using a tether, it should be able to break away quickly. 

The Oregon Department of Human Services has barred South Hills Rehabilitation Center in Eugene from accepting new residents after the death of a patient earlier this month.

Carol Clove Petitti was a woman with dementia and Parkinson’s disease who went missing from the facility on July 5th. According to Eugene Police, she was found dead three days later in a dense brush on a nearby path.

The Oregon Department of Human Services has ordered the South Hills Rehabilitation Center to post this sign on its entrance.

According to an ODHS order dated July 15, Petitti had attempted to escape twice in the two days leading up to the incident. ODHS said the facility failed to take proper steps to keep her safe following the earlier incidents.

The facility has dozens of substantiated care violation, and abuse violations under current ownership for issues like low staffing, poor medication management, and failure to ensure residents’ safety.

On July 15th, the state placed a new licensing requirement on the facility. It won’t be able to accept new patients until it takes steps to correct its deficiencies and train its providers on dementia care.

Bat Found in Lane County Tests Positive for Rabies

Lane County Public Health (LCPH) today announced laboratory confirmation from the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University of a rabies-infected bat found in Lane County. This is the third bat found in Lane County which has tested positive for rabies in 2026.

“All pet owners should make certain their dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies.  When our pets are protected from rabies, it provides a buffer zone of immune animals between humans and rabid wild animals, such as bats,” says Dr. Emilio DeBess, State Public Health Veterinarian.

While bats help control insect populations, including mosquitoes, they are the primary reservoir of rabies in our wild animal communities.  Thus far this year in Oregon 13 bats have tested positive for rabies. 

Lane County residents and veterinarians should be aware that other animals could be exposed to the rabies virus and should, therefore, be alert to potential signs of the disease.  Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of humans and mammals.  It is almost 100 percent fatal once symptoms begin.  The virus is carried in the saliva of an infected animal; transmission can occur when that animal bites, or in rare instances, scratches another animal or person. If bitten by a bat the wound should be immediately and thoroughly cleaned with soap and water.  In addition, medical attention should be sought.  Finally, if easily accomplished, the bat should be captured and the event reported to the Lane County Public Health.

There are several strains of rabies found in the U.S. (e.g., bat, skunk, fox, raccoon) but only bat rabies is found in Oregon.  Other animals that have tested positive for rabies in Oregon have contracted it from bats. People should stay away from bats and not handle them. 

LCPH recommends the following:

·        Vaccinate your pets (dogs and cats) against rabies

·          Do not handle bats with bare hands

·         Watch wildlife from a distance. Do not approach or attempt to handle wild animals.

·         Do not feed wild animals

·         Keep garbage in secure containers and away from wildlife

·         Feed pets indoors

·         Seal openings in attics, basements, porches, sheds, barns and screen chimneys that might provide access to bats and other wildlife

·         If your pet has contact with a bat, contact your veterinarian

For a statewide map showing the distribution of rabies in bats for 2026, please visit:https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/RABIES/Documents/rabiesmap26.pdf

Lane County Public Health is a division of Lane County Health & Human Services is a department of Lane County. Their programs and services create a healthier and safer community through disease prevention, health promotion, and protection from environmental threats. Learn more about the work of Lane County Health and Human Services at: http://www.lanecountyor.gov/HHS

Lane County Public Health is urging residents to take extra care when handling fresh produce as a cyclosporiasis outbreak spreads across much of the country

Lane County health officials monitor cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting 31 states

Lane County Public Health states “Due to the fact that the current cyclosporiasis outbreak is affecting the majority of the US, (31 states) Lane County Public Health is concerned about the possibility of cases here. We are working with the OHA and ready to help manage cases should they arise.”

Health officials emphasized steps people can take at home to reduce risk when preparing fruits and vegetables.

Lane County Public Health recommends washing hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables. The agency also advises washing all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.

Fruits and vegetables labeled “prewashed” do not need to be washed again at home, according to the guidance. For firm produce such as melons and cucumbers, Lane County Public Health recommends scrubbing with a clean produce brush and cutting away any damaged or bruised areas before preparing and eating.

The agency also recommends refrigerating cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible, within two hours.

Catholic Community Services of Lane County, Inc. (CCS) is with St. Paul Catholic Church Eugene Oregon and Emerald People’s Utility District.  · Back to School Drive – July 15 to August 15!

Help CCS support over 200 kids enrolled in our programs — most of whom will start the school year without the supplies they need. Together, we can change that!From July 15 to August 15, we’re collecting NEW school supplies to give these students a strong start. Most Needed Items (New Only):

Notebooks & paper

Watercolors & markers

Water bottles

Backpacks

Corded headphones

Lunch bags… and moreYour donation can make a direct impact in a child’s life.

Find a complete list of supplies and a donation site near you and give today! www.ccslc.org/back-to-school-drive Let’s make sure every student walks into school confident, prepared, and ready to learn.

SAVE THE DATE!!! Michael Bryson 5 K Shuffle will be 8-8-26 At Alton Baker Park in Eugene Oregon at 9 am 

Sign up sheet will be up in a few days! – This will be the 5 th annual 5 K shuffle please come and show your support and love for Michael Bryson and all missing people! You can walk-Run-Shuffle! https://michaelbrysonfoundation.com/5k-shuffle-2026

Food for Lane County  Summer Food Program for Kids 

In partnership with PeaceHealth, which donated $50,000 to the program, and Yogi, a tea company that donated $5,000, the program will distribute free lunches at dozens of sites in Lane County from June 22 to Aug. 21.

Click on Lunch locations below:

Creswell Eugene Dexter Junction City Oakridge Springfield Thurston Triangle Lake Veneta

According to Carolyn Stein, the executive director of Food for Lane County, the PeaceHealth donation and Yogi donation helped minimize a funding gap of over $100,000. Even so, Food for Lane County has to pay out of pocket to fill the remaining gap.  

According to the Oregon Department of Education, about 75% of Lane County children qualify for free or reduced-cost lunch. 

Last year, Stein said the free-food program served about 50,000 meals to kids throughout the summer, and they expect that number to increase by an additional 10,000 this summer. 

“Food for Lane County’s mission is to engage our community to create access to food, and we do that with many partnerships with organizations and businesses across the community,” Stein said. “We went to PeaceHealth because they have a shared value to make sure that no child in our community goes hungry and they stepped up in a big way to help us meet the need in our community.”

The lunches will be served on a first-come basis, between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Kids, 18 years old or younger, can receive meals, regardless of income. 

Burrito Brigade Buys Building to Create Community Food Hub

Burrito Brigade has bought the old Center for Appropriate Transport building at 455 West 1st Ave. in the Whiteaker neighborhood to create a new community food hub.

The organization is asking the community to help support building renovation goals. Burrito Brigade needs $300,000 more to fully complete a commercial kitchen installation, food storage infrastructure, ADA-compliant upgrades and critical improvements needed.

Jennifer Denson says “This project has always been community driven. Since Waste To Taste’s start in 2020 we have not looked back. We just keep rescuing more food and growing more organized and it’s incredible to watch the impact and difference we make when we work together,”

Hundreds of volunteer hours weekly are dedicated to rescuing more than half a million pounds of food annually from grocery stores, small businesses, institutions, large food generators and local farms. This community-powered food rescue serves fresh local vegetables and fruit alongside diet and culturally specific products.

The no-barrier access free grocery store, known as Waste-to-Taste, provides households the ability to supplement other systems of support that often have eligibility requirements. Waste-to-Taste serves more than 10,000 households annually.

Rescued food is also redirected through other sustainable distribution channels. Food scraps and spoiled food are diverted to feed farm animals like chickens, goats and pigs, sanctuary animals at a local emu ranch and wolf rescue, and even a mealworm farm.

According to Burrito Brigade, the community connection and creativity around food in the kitchen includes partners in many mutual aid food projects facilitating hot meals, food preservation, community-led cooking classes, food micro-entrepreneurs and youth workforce training. The new community food hub will open its doors to the public in 2027. You can DONATE here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-help-us-build-a-food-hub

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.

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.

7/17/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

East Evans Creek Fire – Jackson County

𝙀𝘼𝙎𝙏 𝙀𝙑𝘼𝙉𝙎 𝘾𝙍𝙀𝙀𝙆 𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙀 𝘼𝙈 𝙐𝙋𝘿𝘼𝙏𝙀: Firefighters on East Evans Creek Fire line Canyon Creek spot fire

SAMS VALLEY, Ore.– Overnight, firefighters were able to complete line construction on the Canyon Creek spot fire and establish firehose to the perimeter. Day shift crews will continue securing and strengthening the fireline today, using water to reduce heat near the fire’s edge. The Ramsey Creek spot fire remained within control lines constructed during day shift; firefighters worked overnight and will continue today to strengthen fireline and work to hold the fire in its current footprint.

Firefighters working on the Board Mountain spot fire were able to use natural fire progression and small-scale tactical burning to remove unburned fuel between the fire’s edge and the fireline on the northern perimeter as fire moved slowly up to the constructed indirect fireline. Today, firefighters will work to strengthen this fireline. The southern area of this fire continues to have active fire behavior southwest of Boswell Mountain. Additional resources are bolstering efforts in this area, working to construct and extend the direct fireline and address spot fires.

Structural resources maintained a presence throughout the East Evans Creek Fire area, including Long Branch Road, Shady Cove, Trail, East Evans Creek Road, West Fork Evans Creek Road, and the Hull Mountain area, continuing structure preparation, improved defensible space, completed structure assessments in additional neighborhoods, and extinguished lingering heat around threatened homes.

Mop-up on the southern edge of the main fire along East Evans Creek Road continues, as firefighters work to ensure the areas adjacent to homes and the fire perimeter have no residual heat. Today, firefighters will continue to work along the West Fork Evans Creek Road securing the fire’s edge and moving to the north to connect portions of fireline along the western edge of the fire. Fuels and vegetation in the area north of Spignet Butte have been receptive to embers and firefighters have been pushed to keep the fire from crossing the existing fireline. Efforts continue to focus on increasing fireline width to reduce potential ember wash across it, igniting fuels outside the line further securing the northern perimeter.

Structural engines supported wildland suppression efforts by operating high-pressure pump systems, water tenders, and portable water delivery equipment to firefighters working in steep terrain. A water supply site, supported by local agencies, has been established at the Dodge Bridge Boat Ramp to provide a reliable source of water for ongoing firefighting operations. To safely support these operations, the boat ramp is temporarily closed to public access.

The fire remains 5% contained and is currently 13,090 acres total. Spot fires from embers carried by afternoon winds, combined with critically dry fuels, continue to challenge firefighters. Firefighters are covering nearly 60 miles of fire perimeter searching for areas of heat and opportunities to halt fire progression. Cooler temperatures overnight supported firefighting operations, reducing fire behavior and allowing direct line construction across much of the fire. An inversion over much of the fire will be slow to lift today, moderating fire behavior this morning, however fuels remain critically dry and receptive to ember ignition. Today, a warming, drying trend will return to the area, along with gusty northwest winds.

Fourteen helicopters are assigned to the fire to support ground operations by cooling and slowing fire progression with water drops and providing information on fire movement and spotting. Air tankers are available by request. Today’s inversion may limit aerial operations due to limited visibility.

Evacuations: There are evacuations in place in both Jackson and Douglas counties, issued by both counties’ Sheriff’s Offices and Emergency Management. Up-to-date evacuations are available here: https://readyjacksonco.com/…/emergency-information-hub…

Find your evacuation zone here: https://tinyurl.com/EastEvansCreekFireEvacMap

Road/Land Closures: The Tiller-Trail Highway is closed at the county border in Jackson County to Highway 62. Traffic is closed to the public on East Evans Creek Road at Meadows Road. The BLM has issued a road closure for West Fork Evans Creek Road and Rock Creek Road. Please avoid the fire area to allow firefighters and heavy equipment to operate safely. Road closure information is available on https://tripcheck.com/

A closure order for BLM-administered lands near the East Evans Creek Fire is in place. Public entry, including hunting, hiking, and camping, is prohibited. More information about the closure, including a map, is available online at www.blm.gov/orwafire

Smoke Impacts: Smoke from the East Evans Creek Fire may settle into valleys and other low-lying areas, reducing visibility and impacting air quality in nearby communities. Smoke conditions can change throughout the day as winds shift. Individuals sensitive to smoke should take appropriate precautions. For current air quality information and smoke forecasts, visit: https://fire.airnow.gov/

Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): A “TFR” is in place for the fire area daily (24 hours) until further notice. Complete information is available at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_6_4915

Flying a drone near or around a wildfire is illegal and compromises the safety of both pilots and firefighters and interferes with firefighting efforts.

Cause: The fire started on Friday, July 10th at 2:41 p.m. after a car crashed into a power pole, sparking dry vegetation in the area. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the cause of the crash.

Lincoln, Linn and Tillamook County Fire Agencies Deploy another Strike Team to East Evans Creek Road Fire

Thursday morning, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board fulfilled a resource request from the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office by mobilizing Strike Team 7 in support of the East Evans Creek Road Fire, located approximately 14 miles northeast of Rogue River in Jackson County, Oregon.

Strike Team #7 is comprised of units from Lincoln, Linn & Tillamook Counties with the following resources. The deployment is being led by Strike Team Leader Mark Bernt of the City of Albany Fire Department. 

District	IC	Resource
North Lincoln Fire (Lincoln Co.	E15	Type 1 Engine
Depoe Bay Fire (Lincoln Co.)	E22	Type 1 Engine
Albany Fire (Linn Co.)	RE13	Type 1 Engine
Harrisburg Fire (Linn Co.)	E41	Type 1 Engine
Netarts-Oceanside Fire (Tillamook Co.)	B72	Type 1 Engine
Albany Fire (Linn Co.)	181	Task Force Leader

Strike Team 7 departed Lincoln County this morning at 08:00 a.m. and is en route to the staging area in Medford, Oregon. The team is expected to arrive at approximately 17:30 p.m. and will be assigned to operational duties immediately upon arrival.

The East Evans Creek Road Fire experienced rapid growth following its start on Friday, July 10, 2026. This fire has seen significant growth in the last 6 days, requiring additional resources. The fire is currently estimated to have burned 11,551 acres. Firefighters will continue to encounter challenging conditions as suppression efforts continue. This deployment may last up to 14 days, depending on fire activity and operational needs.

Strike Team 7 represents the second deployment of resources requested by the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) from Lincoln County fire agencies, this week, to assist with suppression efforts on the East Evans Creek Road Fire. These firefighters and apparatus have joined the statewide response to help protect lives, property, and natural resources as wildfire activity continues to increase across Oregon.

On behalf of the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board, I would like to thank the firefighters and agencies who answered the call to assist our fellow Oregonians during this significant wildfire incident. Their willingness to serve reflects the professionalism, dedication, and strong mutual aid partnerships that exist throughout our state.

With wildfire activity increasing across the state, we ask everyone to be vigilant and exercise due diligence with any activity that could spark a fire. Avoid using equipment that may create sparks during the hottest parts of the day, properly extinguish campfires where permitted, and never discard smoking materials on the ground or from a vehicle.

We also want to remind all residents that a debris burning ban remains in effect. These restrictions are in place to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire during periods of elevated fire danger.

We appreciate the continued support of our community as our personnel assist in protecting Oregonians statewide. By working together and following current fire restrictions, we can help reduce the risk of additional wildfires and keep our communities safe.

Please keep the residents affected by this fire, along with all emergency responders working to protect lives and property, in your thoughts during this critical time.

Complex Incident Management Team from Oregon Department of Forestry deploys to manage central Oregon wildfires

PRINEVILLE, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is deploying its Complex Incident Management Team 2 (CIMT) to manage multiple central Oregon wildfires in the Prineville and Sisters area. The all ODF-staffed team will coordinate current and additional personnel and equipment assigned to the incidents.

The CIMT will battle the Brewer fire estimated at more than 3,000 acres, the Akawa fire at more than 3,200 acres and the Pilot fire at 100 acres.  The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Level 1 evacuation notice for the Brewer fire and a Level 1 and Level 2 notice for the Akawa fire.  For the Pilot fire the Cook County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Level 1 evacuation notice.  To see more information on the fires and to set up alerts from the counties go to: https://centraloregonfire.org

 The public is urged to avoid these areas due to heavy firefighting traffic and possible road closures.   

The team is scheduled for an in-brief tomorrow at noon and then schedule take over management of the fire at 6 p.m.  The incident command is expected to be in Sisters.

The Brewer fire started yesterday, and the Pilot and Akawa fires ignited today.  All three fires were caused by lightning.   Although there was rain in the area last night and today it was not enough to significantly impact the fires.  Dry fuels on the ground and continued warm weather will contribute to the fires’ intensity making fighting the fires challenging and the need for additional resources including the CIMT. 

Almost 87 percent of Oregon is currently experiencing at least a Moderate Drought, despite recent rainfall.

According to NOAA, the Pacific Northwest has recorded its highest temperatures in the past five years since record-keeping began 130 years ago. The insufficient snowpack accumulated during winter is expected to negatively impact river levels as the region transitions from summer to fall.

Governor Kotek has issued drought declarations for nineteen counties in Oregon, while requests from Curry and Union counties are still under consideration.

L. L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock State Parks will host OMSI Star Parties this summer

— L.L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock State Parks will celebrate the night sky with free stargazing parties in July, August and September.

The parks are partnering with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers to host an OMSI Star Party 2026, which includes a presentation at dusk and stargazing from 9 to 11 p.m. Telescopes will be provided by volunteers, and visitors are welcome to bring their own. Depending on the weather, stargazers will search out stars, the moon, and planets.

“We love helping people experience the park in a different way. After dark, everything feels calmer, quieter, and a little more magical,” shared Park Ranger Jeremy Williams at L. L. Stub Stewart State Park.

These events are free. Parking in the day-use areas requires a $10 parking permit per vehicle or you can use an annual parking pass if you have one.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, warm clothing, snacks and water. Bug repellent is always a good idea. Please use red flashlights to avoid interfering with the dark sky viewing. You can also cover your flashlight or smartphone with red electrical tape.

Star maps will be provided along with recommended astronomy apps that visitors can load on their phones if interested.

Visitors should arrive early to familiarize themselves with the area and park only in designated spaces. Overnight camping is not permitted in day-use areas, though campground reservations are available at stateparks.oregon.gov.

On the scheduled day for OMSI Star Parties, visitors should visit the OMSI website for possible weather-related cancellations. The long-range forecast looks promising for excellent viewing.

“Whether you come to Rooster Rock to count Perseids or simply to spend a peaceful evening under the stars, the meteor shower is a wonderful excuse to slow down, look up, and experience the Gorge in a whole new light”, said Park Ranger Elika Paki at Rooster Rock. “And if you lose track of how many shooting stars you’ve seen, don’t worry, that just means you’re doing it right.”

All events begin at dusk. We recommend arriving early to accommodate parking. Parks will close at 11:45 p.m.

Summer Night Sky | Saturday, July 18

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park

Perseid Meteor Shower Watch | Wednesday, August 12

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park
• Rooster Rock State Park

Equinox Celebration | Saturday, September 12

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park

You can find additional details about the event, parking logistics, whether pets are allowed, and how to request accessibility accommodations on the L.L. Stub Stewart State Park and Rooster Rock State Park event pages, and the OMSI event page.

Oregon State Parks often hosts stargazing events across the state. More opportunities can be found on Oregon State Parks’ event page.

Regional earthquake experts say more coordination, investment needed to prepare for ‘Big One’

Plans to ensure critical transportation, water and fuels corridors exist after a devastating regionwide earthquake need more urgent attention, experts said.

 If the “Big One” — the anticipated massive Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake — hit today, Oregonians west of the Cascades would be luckiest to find themselves at the recently-retrofitted state Capitol in Salem or on the roof of the new terminal at the Portland International Airport.

The comment from Tom Wharton, an engineer at the Port of Portland, drew laughs from an audience Thursday at the 13th annual National Conference on Earthquake Engineering in Portland, but it wasn’t entirely a joke. Jonna Papaefthimiou, state resilience officer in Gov. Tina Kotek’s office, said few of the 4,000 buildings the state owns would survive. Just five would likely remain standing and be immediately usable in the weeks and months after, she said.

The Port of Portland and the governor’s office are among the members of the region-wide multi-agency Cascadia Lifelines Program housed at Oregon State University, operating as a think tank for stakeholders who meet twice annually to discuss preparation for what seismologists project will be a 7.4 or greater magnitude earthquake in the Northwest in the next 50 years.

The Cascadia Subduction Zone quake occurs off the coasts of Oregon, Washington and California every 500 years and was last recorded in 1700. It could cause Northwest coastlines to lower and retreat, spur widespread flooding and landslides and displace millions of people.

The experts discussed progress: Renovations at the Portland airport and state Capitol that made the buildings more likely to withstand earthquakes, a plan to ensure Washington County residents have access to water sourced from beyond Portland’s system and Kotek’s 2025 executive order mandating large state-owned buildings be retrofitted during the next 35 years and new ones be built to a worst-case-scenario earthquake code.

But the experts also discussed policies that they say should be enacted urgently.

If coastal U.S. Route 101 isn’t retrofitted before the Big One hits and shuts down for any extended period following the quake, “then you’ve lost those coastal communities, and you’re not going to get those back,” said Mike Olsen, an Oregon State University civil engineering professor and the director of the Cascadia Lifelines Program.

The highway is also already under frequent threats of coastal landslides and flooding.

“We don’t need to wait for the earthquake to cause a lot of damage to it. It’s already under a lot of pressure,” he said.

Race to retrofit — In coastal areas that will be most heavily impacted, and that are heavily reliant on grid power from the Bonneville Power Administration, policies that promote community microgrids and battery storage will be key to post-quake recovery, said Leon Kempner, a BPA engineer.

BPA controls most of the Northwest electricity distribution grid. In some coastal areas, such as Lincoln City, it is the source of nearly all power.

Kempner said the agency is racing to retrofit the grid to withstand earthquakes, but it didn’t start implementing seismic code into projects until the 1980s, and it lacks resources to move as quickly as needed.

He also suggested that the Oregon and Washington state legislatures should require BPA and all regional utilities to regularly report to state officials on what they are doing to prepare for the Big One to increase awareness, transparency about planning gaps and potential for collaboration.

Wharton, who explained that much of the state would rely on the airport and the port’s four Willamette and Columbia river terminals to receive recovery aid, said the Port of Portland needs nearly $500 million to upgrade a runway that can survive the quake and handle large Federal Emergency Management Agency aircraft, and other aircraft, landing for support or evacuation.

Port officials will meet with Kotek’s office in the next few weeks to discuss some potential budget requests, he and Papaefthimiou said. Some funding could also come from requesting an advance on annual maintenance dollars from the Federal Aviation Administration or grants from FEMA, “as long as FEMA still exists,” Wharton said.

A recent study by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that the, for now, roughly $450 million investment would have a net $7 billion savings benefit for the state as it tries to recover and rebuild after the quake, he said. But none of that matters if roads and bridges are unusable or nonexistent.

Critical corridors — The Oregon Department of Transportation has identified $40 million worth of bridge deficiencies that, if left unaddressed, leave them vulnerable to the quake, said Yumei Wang, a civil engineering and infrastructure resilience and risk expert from Portland State University.

Olsen and other experts also called for more investment in preparing a disaster response workforce for the state and the region, which would require months of emergency attention and years of rebuilding. Everyone agreed that municipal governments, state leaders, and all regional infrastructure stakeholders need to be more regularly talking and planning together, now.

Mike Britch, an engineering and construction manager at Tualatin Valley Water District, is overseeing a $1.6 billion water infrastructure project to shift the half of Tualatin that relies on water from the Portland Water Bureau to water sourced from the Joint Water Commission that also supplies water to the cities of Hillsboro, Forest Grove and Beaverton.

Part of the project involved building a 2,000 foot “micro tunnel” under the Tualatin River to transport drinking water. Above it, the Roy Rogers Road bridge over the river would not survive the Big One, Britch said, leaving people south of the bridge stranded and unable to get to any area hospitals.

“If I could create a policy and make people do things, I would say I want the state to identify some of these really critical corridors,” he said. “We need some sort of policy to address that.” (SOURCE)

Mosquito pool in Jackson County tests positive for West Nile virus

Disease’s detection in insects collected at Eagle Point trap is first of 2026

What you should know:Mosquitoes in Jackson County have tested positive for West Nile virus. Residents should protect themselves against mosquitoes, which can spread West Nile to people. Use insect repellants, eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed, and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors.

West Nile virus (WNv) has been detected in a mosquito pool collected July 15 in Eagle Point, marking the first time in 2026 that the virus has been detected. 

July, August and September are considered peak months for WNv activity in Jackson County.  The mosquitoes were collected by the Jackson County Vector Control District as part of a routine surveillance program and DNA testing. 

Mosquito pools are traps that hold up to 50 insects. County vector control districts around the state use the pools to collect mosquitoes so they can be tested for mosquito-borne diseases that affect humans and animals, such as birds and horses.  

Residents are urged to take basic precautions against mosquitoes since WNv is spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. People should consult their health care providers if they experience any flu-like symptoms, especially in people older than 50 with underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Health care providers can contact the Jackson County Health Department for information on WNv testing. 

The virus also affects wildlife and domesticated and farm animals. Horse owners should get their horses vaccinated for WNv. Horses with neurologic disease should be examined by a veterinarian. WNv testing is available at Oregon State University. 

OHA and the Jackson County Vector Control District suggest these steps to protect against mosquitoes: 

• Eliminate or treat sources of standing water around your home.
• Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use repellants containing DEET, oil of lemon/eucalyptus, or Picardin  (always follow label directions).
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors.
• Ensure that screen doors and windows are in good condition and fit tightly. 

West Nile virus is detected every year in Oregon, although mostly in mosquito pools. In 2023, the virus was found in 70 mosquito pools, four horses and 17 people; in 2024, there were 21 West Nile-positive mosquito pools, but no human or animal infections; in 2025, 11 mosquito pools, two horses and two people—both of the human infections were acquired outside Oregon—were infected. 

Additional information about West Nile virus: 

• OHA website: http://public.health.oregon.gov/DiseasesConditions/DiseasesAZ/WestNileVirus/Pages/survey.aspx
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.html

Three Providence locations become latest measles exposure sites

Three new measles exposure locations have been identified, and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Multnomah and Clackamas county public health officials are urging people to talk to a health care provider about their risks if they believe they were exposed. 

People might have been exposed if they were at the following locations at these dates and times:  

• Providence Immediate Care—Happy Valley, 16180 SE Sunnyside Road, Suite 102, Happy Valley, between 7:42 a.m. and 10:22 a.m. Thursday, July 9. 
• Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center, emergency department, 1500 Division St., Oregon City, between 12:18 a.m. and 5:56 a.m. Friday, July 10. 
• Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center, emergency department, 1500 Division St., Oregon City, between 10:04 a.m. and 2:57 p.m. Saturday, July 11.
• Providence Portland Medical Center, emergency department, 4805 NE Glisan St., Portland, between 1:39 p.m. and 4:57 p.m. Saturday, July 11.
• Providence Portland Medical Center, emergency department, 4805 NE Glisan St., Portland, between 7:32 p.m. and 9:46 p.m. Sunday, July 12. 

People who were at these locations during these dates and time periods should immediately contact their health care provider and let them know they may have been exposed to someone who has measles. The health care provider can determine your risk for measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection.  

Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County’s seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment. Clackamas County residents can schedule an appointment with a Clackamas County Health Center. 

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area. 

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication. 

Measles can be dangerous, especially among children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal.  The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the virus. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low. 

What to do if you suspect measles in your household  

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:  

1. Have a measles-like rash, or
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes). 

Whenever possible, individuals planning to seek medical care should first call your health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms. 

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx. 

Cases of parasitic outbreak remain low in Oregon as other states see surges 

Oregon health officials have recorded a handful of verified cases of a parasitic intestinal illness in the state over the past two months, as outbreaks involving the disease continue to grow in other parts of the country. 

Data the Oregon Health Authority released last week shows that in both May and June, public health officials recorded seven cases of cyclosporiasis in the state.

The parasite cyclospora infects the small intestine, and symptoms of the illness can include watery or explosive diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, weight loss, stomach cramps and nausea. 

But Oregon’s current case levels remain far below the hundreds of cases confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which has been tracking the outbreak in 31 states since May but lagging behind state-level data in areas where the outbreak has been most pronounced. The Trump administration has gutted funding for local public agencies and reduced state-level surveillance requirements for a federal program to monitor foodborne illness. 

The outbreak is currently concentrated in states such as Michigan, New York, Illinois and Texas, but some health officials on the West Coast have expressed concern that there could be spillover from the Midwest.

None of Oregon’s recent cases of cyclosporiasis have been connected to a common food source or broader outbreak investigation, according to Jonathan Modie, a spokesperson for the Oregon Health Authority. He noted that federal health officials are still investigating the source of the outbreak in other states.

“Many other states have also not reported an increase in cases,” Modie wrote in an email. “The reasons for this pattern remain unknown, and there is a possibility that specific risk factors (e.g., contaminated products or other common exposures) may not be present in Oregon. Until the factors driving the national situation are understood, we cannot know whether case numbers in Oregon will change in the future.”

So far, current cases are lower than previous years’ data. In June 2024 and July 2025, the Oregon Health Authority recorded 12 cases, the highest number for a single month in recent years. 

The parasite thrives on produce such as lettuce which is not cooked and can remain contaminated when washed off. Public health experts recommend that people wash their produce thoroughly, avoid pre-cut or bagged salad mixes, cook foods whenever possible and be cautious of the source of drinking water. 

Cyclosporiasis is treatable with antibiotics, but people with healthy immune systems can often recover without any additional treatment. Without treatment, the illness may last from a few days to a month or longer, according to the CDC. (SOURCE)

Oregon farmers reliant on irrigation have faced a challenging start to the season, with little improvement in conditions as the months progress.

Many are experiencing reduced water availability, with certain fields in Central Oregon facing unprecedented water restrictions. In Southern Oregon, growers are being incentivized to leave their fields unplanted, and there is a growing concern that water regulators may need to impose further restrictions before the end of the growing season.

Stream flows in rivers throughout most of Oregon’s basins are significantly below average for this time of year. The state’s snowpack, which typically serves as a natural reservoir, was disappointingly low this past winter, coinciding with some of the warmest winter months on record. In various areas of the Cascades, the limited snow that did accumulate is melting weeks earlier than expected.

Public invited to comment on plan to possibly triple logging in eastern Oregon national forests

The U.S. Forest Service’s proposed revisions to the Blue Mountain Forest Plan would allow more logging and taking older trees in the name of wildfire prevention

Officials at the U.S. Forest Service are proposing new management plans for eastern Oregon’s Blue Mountains that include potentially tripling the amount of logging across 5.5 million acres in the next decade.

The Forest Service published a draft of proposed changes to the 35-year-old Blue Mountain Forest Plan last week. It would allow more logging, mining and grazing across four national forests spread across eastern Oregon, as well as parts of southeast Washington: the Malheur, Ochoco, Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.

The public has until Sept. 30 to submit comments on the 350-page draft proposal.Submit comments on the revised Blue Mountain Forest Plan here.

The draft plan describes increases in logging and animal grazing as important to local economies and to preventing wildfire.

It predicts everything from habitat conservation to forest carbon storage would improve over the long term if more logging is allowed because strategically logging and grazing parts of the forest would prevent wildfire, which officials characterize as the biggest threat to habitat and forest loss.

Environmental advocates disagree with the framing.

The Blue Mountains encompass Oregon’s largest protected wilderness areas. Conservation groups have expressed concern and outrage over the draft management plan, which they say could exacerbate area drought and water quality issues, wildfire risks and impact habitat for elk, wolverine, wolves, moose, owls and salmon.

“This plan seeks to open up and pillage one of the wildest places left in the U.S.,” Lauren Anderson, a climate forests manager at the nonprofit Oregon Wild, said in a statement. “The Trump administration is already taking a hatchet to protections for water, wildlife and the public’s voice. This plan is that philosophy in action, putting at risk the very values that make the Blue Mountains special.”

Bev Law, a forest scientist and professor emerita at Oregon State University who has studied extensively the potential forest carbon storage in Oregon forests, found that protected wilderness areas in the Blue Mountains contain the second highest proportion of above-ground carbon stocks in all of Oregon’s protected wilderness areas.

Nick Smith, a spokesperson for the American Forest Resource Council, a trade association representing the timber industry, said in a statement that the group is still reviewing the proposed updates but that change is overdue.

“These national forests face some of the highest wildfire, insect and disease risks in the West. At the same time, the region is steadily losing the sawmills, logging contractors and the skilled workforce needed to carry out active forest management and provide markets for the material that needs to come out of the woods,” he said.

The draft Blue Mountain Management Plan proposal also includes rescinding a 32-year-old rule called the Eastside Screens that prohibits logging trees that are 21 inches in diameter or larger on six eastern Oregon and Washington national forests. Forest Service officials attempted to rescind the rule during the first Trump administration, but conservation groups sued and it was blocked by a federal judge.

Forest Service officials have argued that some younger trees that grow fast should be able to be removed even if they are more than 21 inches in diameter, because they are crowding out other tree species that take longer to grow but are important to the forest ecosystems.

The proposal also assumes Congress will soon rescind the 25-year-old Roadless Rule, which prohibits road construction, logging and mining on roughly 60 million acres of public land, including about 2 million acres of forests in Oregon. That alone would increase the amount of land classified as open for logging in the Blue Mountains by 17%, according to the draft.

Most of the increased logging would take place in the Malheur National Forest, followed by the Wallowa-Whitman and then Umatilla national forests. (SOURCE)

Detectives Investigating Rural Central Point Homicide; Suspect in Custody

JCSO Case 26-3616 – CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives are investigating a homicide that occurred in a rural Central Point residence. The suspect is in custody.

On Wednesday, July 15, at 4:05 AM, Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatchers received a call of gunshots heard near the 6000 block of Kershaw Road. JCSO deputies responded and found a man deceased from an apparent gunshot wound inside the residence.

Next-of-kin has been notified. The victim is Juan Carlos Ramirez-Arango, 62, of Central Point. JCSO sends our deepest sympathies to Ranirez-Arango’s family and all those affected during this time. 

Evidence collected during the investigation led to the arrest of Pamela Sue Maya, 67, of Central Point. She was in a relationship with the victim. Maya has been charged with second-degree murder and is being held in the Jackson County Jail. 

Ashland Police Department and Jackson County District Attorney’s Office responded to assist. The Oregon State Police Forensics Lab processed the crime scene. There is no further information available for release at this time.

Ross Ragland Board President Paul Stewart urged the Klamath County Board of Commissioners to consider placing a funding measure on the November ballot to secure financial support for the theater, which he described as being “on the ropes” and nearing closure.

In response, the commissioners requested that the theater present a detailed ballot measure at their upcoming meeting on July 14, allowing them sufficient time to evaluate the proposal before their recess at the end of the month.

Commissioner Derrick DeGroot expressed his willingness to collaborate with theater representatives to facilitate this process, noting that the deadline for submitting ballot titles is August 14.

The theater is currently investigating two potential avenues to raise a minimum of $250,000: establishing an arts tax district or increasing the transient room tax. The funds generated would be allocated to cover essential expenses such as the theater’s mortgage, utilities, and insurance.

Additionally, officials have suggested implementing a five-year sunset for the arts tax district, which they believe would provide an opportunity to bolster the Ragland Rife Foundation endowment and ultimately enable the foundation to sustain the theater’s funding in the future.

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation has issued a warning regarding a newly identified fraud ring that enrolls individuals in life insurance policies without their awareness or consent.

This fraudulent activity primarily targets older adults and has been reported across several states, including Oregon. The scheme involves licensed insurance agents who initiate contact with victims through multiple telemarketing calls, during which personal information is solicited. This information is subsequently passed on to the participating insurance agents, who then reach out to the victims to gather any additional details necessary to finalize an application for a life insurance policy.

These applications are submitted without the victims’ knowledge, resulting in the issuance of one or more policies for which the agents receive commissions, despite the fact that the premiums have not yet been paid. The fraud typically comes to light when the insurance company seeks the initial premium payment.

The Division of Financial Regulation’s consumer advocates are available to assist with inquiries or to facilitate the filing of complaints. They can be contacted at 1-888-877-4894 or via email at DFR.InsuranceHelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance-related assistance, and dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for help with financial services.

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.

Need to meet SNAP work rules? Free Oregon program helps people build skills and find jobs

More than half of participants who complete Oregon’s SNAP Employment and Training program are employed shortly afterward.

Salem, Ore. — More than half of SNAP participants who complete Oregon’s SNAP Employment and Training (STEP) program are employed shortly afterward, according to data reported to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Administration.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is highlighting the success of these services as more Oregonians seek support navigating federal changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work or activity rules.

“Employment and training services can help people achieve more than compliance with a requirement,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, Oregon SNAP Director. “They help people build skills, connect with employers and create opportunities that can support them long after they leave SNAP.”

Before connecting with WorkSource Oregon, Isla was facing uncertainty after becoming unemployed while caring for a family member. She had long dreamed of continuing her education but wasn’t sure how she would make it happen. Through the SNAP Employment and Training (STEP) program, she received support, guidance and resources that helped her move forward. Today, she is continuing her education and working toward her goal of starting her own business.

“It has always been a dream of mine to better myself and show my kids you can always go to school and educate yourself no matter the age,” said Isla. “My plans for the future are to have my own company and a great job of my choosing.”

Stories like Isla’s are common among participants in Oregon’s STEP program. According to USDA Food and Nutrition Administration data, 57% of Oregon STEP participants are employed shortly after completing the program, one of the highest rates in the nation.

The STEP program connects SNAP participants with free employment and training services through partnerships between ODHS, STEP providers, the Oregon Employment Department, local workforce development boards and other community organizations throughout Oregon.

Services may include:

• Career coaching and employment planning
• Resume development and interview preparation
• Education and training opportunities
• Job search assistance
• Connections to local employers
• Help addressing barriers that can make it hard to find work or complete training

Many participants use these services to gain new skills, complete training programs, increase earnings or enter a new field.

Federal changes to SNAP work rules have increased the number of Oregonians who may need to meet work or activity rules to maintain food benefits. Employment and training services can help participants meet those requirements while building skills that support long-term employment success.

ODHS is also encouraging people to contact the ODHS ABAWD team (1-833-947-1694 or SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov) if they have questions about SNAP work or activity rules. Some people may qualify for an exemption and not realize it. Others may benefit from employment and training services that can help them maintain benefits while working toward their career goals. ODHS provides the referral for people to access these supports.

Since January 2026, more than 25,600 people have lost benefits because they didn’t meet work or activity rules.

“If you think SNAP work or activity rules may apply to you, your best next step is to contact ODHS,” said Hoffman. “We can help you understand your options and connect you with services that support your goals.”

For more information about SNAP work rules and exemptions:

• English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
• Spanish: Oregon.gov/snapnormastrabajo

ODHS ABAWD Team:

• Call: 1-833-947-1694
• Email: ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov

For more information about SNAP benefits:

• Online: oregon.gov
• Call the ONE Customer Service Center: 1-800-699-9075
• In person or by phone: at any ODHS office

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.

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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