Willamette Valley News, Monday 7/7 – Brush Fire Breaks Out At Harrisburg Fireworks Show, Oregon Country Fair Getting Ready to Rock This Weekend & 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

Monday, July 7, 2025

Willamette Valley Weather

Stay updated with the National Weather Service and NOAA for the latest information on evolving conditions.

Brush Fire Breaks Out At Harrisburg Fireworks Show

As soon as the annual Harrisburg fireworks show began a brush fire broke out in a rye grass field across the Willamette RIver. The field caught fire from low flying mortars. Crews on site quickly put the fire out.

President of the Harrisburg Community Fourth of July Association, Rhonda Giles said in a statement, “During the opening salvo of the fireworks show, a series of mortars appeared to not elevate to the designed height and dropped burning material onto an adjacent windrowed ryegrass seed field, sparking a fire at about 4 minutes into the show.”

The brush fire was quickly put out since there were firefighters already on site, and the show resumed in just 30 minutes. This is another reminder of how easily fireworks can spark danger during fire season.

Oregon Country Fair Getting Ready to Rock this Weekend

As if excitement for the Fair wasn’t already sky-high — here is a clip that will send you straight to the moon! Tickets! https://www.oregoncountryfair.org/tickets/ —- https://www.facebook.com/100064603245756/videos/4059819697597003

Oregon Country Fair    WE HAVE THE FOOD COVERED!!!!

Get ready for one of the most delicious, diverse, and downright mouthwatering collections of snacks, suppers, and savory treats ever assembled in one place. From sweet to spicy, hearty to handheld — we’ve got it ALL. We’re incredibly blessed to have the talented, hardworking culinary stars who return to the Fair year after year. They bring the flavor, the flair, and the Fair food magic you’ve been dreaming about all year long!Come hungry. Leave happy—you won’t want to miss a bite! Here’s is the link for the amazing Peach Pit: https://www.oregoncountryfair.org/peachpit/

The city of Eugene’s public works staff will hold a Zoom meeting on the city’s plan to increase stormwater fees Monday 7/7 at Noon — even though councilors already approved the hike as part of the city’s new budget.

Residents can weigh in during a Zoom meeting at noon on Monday, July 7, on the planned 18% uptick to the monthly fee, which would raise $4.7 million annually through 2031. City councilors approved the increase in May to help close the $11.5 million gap in Eugene’s budget, which they approved June 23.

MEETING INFO: https://www.eugene-or.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=34171

Though originally intended to fund stormwater and wastewater service, the fee’s purpose expanded last June when councilors amended Eugene’s code to allow it to also fund parks and open spaces. 

Earlier this year, they raised the fee to cover $1.1 million in general fund spending on parks. This latest fee increase will free up $4.7 million in general fund money to sustain services like the Sheldon Community Center and Amazon Pool between 2025 and 2027. 

Under the new rates, small-sized residences of 1,000 square feet or less will owe $15.87 monthly, or $2.39 more. Medium-sized residences between 1,000 and 3,000 square feet will pay $23.01 monthly, or $3.48 more each month.

The hearing’s timing sparks questions, given that the council already approved the fee hike and built the budget around it. 

“There is widespread support for this,” said Public Works Public Affairs Manager Marion Suitor Barnes. “There really wasn’t a concern that in the hearing there would be such monumental opposition that it would lead to a change in the direction that the council took.”Barnes said the city is required to hold a public hearing for comment any time it proposes an administrative order like the fee increase.  (SOURCE)

Nurses to Picket Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis July 8

Local nurses are fighting for fair contracts at two Samaritan hospitals while working to protect local birth centers and emergency surgical services  

WHAT: Informational picket and rally for a fair contract at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis.

WHERE: Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center (3600 NW Samaritan Dr., Corvallis, OR 97330)

WHEN: Tuesday, July 8 from 1 – 3 p.m. Speeches start at approximately 2:15 p.m. 

Nurses will be available for interviews before and after speeches. 

WHO: Local frontline nurses and healthcare providers, patients and families. 

WHY: Nurses at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center are holding an informational picket and rally Tuesday, July 8. More than 700 local nurses are currently fighting for fair contracts at both Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center–Samaritan’s flagship hospital in Corvallis–and Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital in Lebanon. Nurses at both hospitals have been bargaining since March in an attempt to reach a fair contract agreement with Samaritan Health System executives. Nurses’ contracts at Good Samaritan and Samaritan Lebanon expired June 30, 2025.

Nurses at both facilities are committed to reaching a fair contract agreement that includes safe staffing and safe workplaces, fair wages, affordable healthcare, and a stronger voice for providers to improve local healthcare and prevent job cuts and department closures. 

ONA nurses in the Samaritan system have led public opposition to Samaritan’s reported proposals to cut birthing centers at hospitals in Lebanon and Lincoln City and eliminate local emergency surgery teams among other cuts. 

The community has joined nurses and rallied to defend the birth center and emergency surgery team with patients and elected leaders including U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden and U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), among those publicly calling on Samaritan Health Services to maintain rural and coastal Oregonians’ full access to labor and delivery services.  

• Community members can email Samaritan decisionmakers here to ask them to save local birth centers and preserve access to essential care.  

Community members are encouraged to attend nurses’ informational picket on July 8 to hear directly from local nurses, ask questions, and share concerns and stories about their community’s healthcare.

Media members are encouraged to attend to capture the voices and stories of frontline nurses, healthcare workers and patients.

NOTE: An informational picket is not a strike or work stoppage. It is a demonstration of solidarity and an opportunity to educate the public about their community’s healthcare.  The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

ESF Rescues Five On The McKenzie River

 Eugene Springfield Fire’s water rescue crews responded to a rescue call just above Bellinger boat landing on the McKenzie in the evening of July 5th.  The call came in just before 6PM and five people were rescued, three in a drift boat boat that got swamped, and two bystanders that tried to help and ended up getting in trouble.

The Captain on Boat 5 had to jump in to rescue one off a strainer that had their arm stuck in the strainer with their head barely above the water, face down and water running over their head. The Captain ended up breaking a branch and pushing them under the strainer and grabbing them on the other side.

Crews were surprised how dangerous of a situation the individuals were in because it was never relayed to dispatch or crews until they got out on the water.  There were ultimately no injuries on this call.  

Firefighters Quickly Fire At Eugene Manufacturing Facility

 Eugene Springfield Fire were on scene of a fire at a West Eugene manufacturing facility. Just before 2 PM on July 5th, ESF responded with full first alarm to report of a commercial structure fire at the original Archimoto building in the 1800 block of West 2nd Ave.

 Crews from Station 2 arrived in about 2-1/2 minutes from dispatch, to find heavy fire and smoke from the exterior of the building.  With concerns that the fire had gotten in to the building, additional resources were called as part of a second alarm.  

Crews quickly discovered that the fire was burning manufacturing stock in the back parking lot with no building involvement and turned the additional resources away. Fire crews brought the fire under control quickly and the cause is under investigation. 

A reported domestic dispute in a quiet Springfield neighborhood turned deadly Thursday night after a man allegedly set his home on fire and fired a gun inside the residence. The man was later found deceased inside the home.

Springfield Police and Eugene Springfield Fire responded just after 9:40 p.m. to the 400 block of 36th Street, where officers say a woman called to report a dispute with her husband. According to police, the man poured gasoline throughout the home, lit it on fire, and began shooting a firearm while still inside.

When police arrived, they found the woman safely outside. But with gunshots still going off, officers evacuated surrounding homes and held fire crews back due to the active threat of the shooter. Firefighters remained staged for at least 20 minutes while officers from multiple agencies, including Eugene Police and the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, secured the scene with armored vehicles and drones. Eugene Springfield Fire personnel then approached under protection to begin suppressing the fire.

Investigators say the fire was primarily contained to the one home, with limited damage to neighboring residences. Once the flames were out, one person was found deceased inside. That individual is believed to be the man involved in the initial domestic dispute. Springfield Police say no rounds were fired by law enforcement during the incident and the woman involved escaped without injury. — The incident is still under active investigation by Springfield Police, the Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Lane County Medical Examiner’s Office.

One Transported After Drowning In The Willamette River as Local Person Helped with CPR til Rescue Crews Arrived

Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a water rescue on the Willamette River downstream from the Knickerbocker Bridge Thursday evening.  Just before 6:30 PM on July 3rd Firefighters were called to a swimmer in distress.  

The caller reported the individual lost their floatie and was floating down stream struggling to keep their head above water.  

When the crew on Boat 5 arrived, they found an unhoused person performing CPR for the victim on a shallow gravel bar in the middle of the river.  Firefighters took over and worked the resuscitation on the boat while transporting to the launch where Medic 1 was waiting.  

The individual was transported to RiverBend in critical condition after being submerged for about 10 min.  Battalion 1 returned to Alton Baker Park after the call in an attempt to locate the individual who performed CPR in the river. They were unable to locate the individual.  

If you know the person who intervened at their own personal risk, please reach out to ESF so we can recognize their efforts.   ESF frequently responds to water rescues in the McKenzie and Willamette rivers where people are floating these swift water rivers on inappropriate floatation devices without wearing a life vest.

 If you got an inexpensive tube or raft at a local box or convenience store, it is not designed for anything but a pool. Not only do these choices put your life at risk, they deplete several fire crews during the same time of day that fire risk is highest.

It’s Been Five Years Since Fauna Frey from Lane County Vanished Without A Trace In The Mountains Of Josephine County

It’s been five years since the disappearance of a Lane County Woman, who was last seen in Grants Pass.

Back in June of 2020, Fauna Frey disappeared. Police said the 45-year-old left her home in Dexter to drive to Grants Pass to visit her brother’s friend after her brother had recently passed away. The last place she was seen was at the Big 5 in Grants Pass. Investigators said her car was found in the Galice area months later.

The circumstances of Fauna’s disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved.

Fauna’s disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, including Nowhere to be Found, Here One Minute, Gone the Next, and Detective Perspective, each trying to fill the silence left by law enforcement. New listeners continue to discover her story, hoping a fresh set of eyes or a single loose memory might be the key to finding Fauna.

Have Information on Fauna Frey? Please Speak Up!

If you know anything, no matter how small, please contact:

• Josephine County Sheriff’s Office
• Tip line: (541) 359-5638
• Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com

Currrently there is a $50,000 CASH REWARD for information leading to the location of Fauna Frey. LARGE CASH REWARDS are being offered for any other relevant information, such as any objects that could be identified as Fauna’s, i.e. her wallet, keys, or Indian/Buffalo .999 silver bullion coins.

Find Fauna Frey Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132

Willamette Valley Crisis Care

Current and former CAHOOTS workers have started a new organization: Willamette Valley Crisis Care! Check ’em out on instagram (here) and facebook (here) and share the news that they’re ready to bring back CAHOOTS as CAHOOTS 2.0.

HELP YOUR COMMUNITY BEAT THE HEAT WITH OPERATION SUMMER HYDRATION

Supporting water needs in the community during hot temperatures this summer — Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with the Severe Weather Collaborative and First Christian Church, is calling the community to join in helping others to Beat the Heat by donating cases of water to Operation Summer Hydration.

Operation Summer Hydration is an effort to collect much needed water supplies to help our unhoused neighbors stay safe during the high and extreme temperatures we continue to experience during the summer months. This water supply can also be accessed by local area cooling spaces who offer short term respite from the heat to both the housed and unhoused, when temperatures reach 90 degrees and above.

These water donations can mean the difference between safety and hazardous health risks for those exposed to prolonged extreme heat and dehydration. Your generosity can make a life-saving difference for someone facing the elements this summer.

To kick off Operation Summer Hydration, the Severe Weather Collaborative and First Christian Church will host a one-day donation drive on Friday June 27th from 1pm-4pm where community members can drop off water donations. After the event, water donations will be accepted Monday through Thursday from 10am to 2pm at First Christian Church.

Water donations and other essential outdoor survival items to support those experiencing homelessness can also be purchased from the Amazon Wish List and shipped directly to First Christian Church at 1166 Oak Street, Eugene, OR 97401. — Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share

The Springfield Public Library launches nine weeks of multicultural music, dancing and storytelling events at its outdoor plaza this week. 

Every Wednesday morning, from June 18 to August 13, the library is hosting free, public programs with diverse artists and organizations from around Oregon. MORE INFO: https://wheremindsgrow.org/events/summer FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/springfieldpubliclibrary

East Albany Lions Club Announces 2025 Memorial Golf Tournament at Trysting Tree

The East Albany Lions Club will host its annual Memorial Golf Tournament on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Trysting Tree Golf Club in Corvallis, Oregon. The event begins with an 8:30 AM shotgun start and invites golfers from across the region to participate in a day of competition, community, and charitable impact.

This four-person team scramble tournament is open to all skill levels. Team registration is $500, and sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals who wish to show their support.

Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that all Oregonians have access to vital vision and hearing services. OLSHF programs include vision screenings, hearing aids, mobile health clinics, and direct assistance for those in need. More information about the Foundation is available at www.olshf.org.

Participants will enjoy 18 holes of golf on a scenic course, on-course contests, raffle prizes, and food and refreshments throughout the event.

Event Details

• Event: East Albany Lions Club 2025 Memorial Golf Tournament
• Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
• Time: 8:30 AM Shotgun Start
• Location: Trysting Tree Golf Club, Corvallis, OR
• Cost: $500 per 4-person team
• Beneficiary: Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) – olshf.org
• Contact for Registration/Sponsorship: Steve Reinhart – steve.reinhart@comcast.net

Community members, golfers, and supporters are encouraged to register early to secure their spot and help expand access to critical sight and hearing services across Oregon.

Burrito Brigade needs to expand so we may better serve the food challenged and the best option is to buy our own building.

Waste To Taste

 ·  We’re 67% of the way there Can you help us reach our fundraising goal?We’re in the process of buying a new building—and with your help, we can renovate it into a space that stores more rescued food, serves more people, and becomes a true hub for nourishment, connection, and dignity. Every dollar brings us closer.https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse… Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org

Please help us reach our goal for a permanent home. https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse…

This new space will help us rescue and redistribute more food, operate more efficiently, and better serve our community. We’ve already raised $7,500 toward our $10,000 match challenge!Help us unlock the full $10,000 by June 10th! Every dollar you give today = DOUBLE the impact. Give here: https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse… Let’s raise the roof—literally and figuratively.

The OG Corner Market — We are launching a Go Fund Me to raise the needed funds to save The OG Corner Market.

The Lane County Fair – Tickets On Sale

  ·  Big news, Fair fans! Concert tickets AND all other Lane County Fair tickets go on sale JUNE 6 @ 9am!

HAVE A BLAST WORKING FOR THE FAIR! Multiple Positions Open: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lanecountyor/jobs/4932327/fair-worker-multiple-positions?keywords=extra%20help&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Let the countdown to fun begin! Mark your calendars! JULY 23 – 27, 2025 https://www.atthefair.com/

 Back to School Drive – June 1 to July 31! 

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 June 1 to July 31, we’re collecting NEW school supplies to give these students a strong start.

 Most Needed Items (New Only):
 Pencils & pens
 Notebooks & paper
 Watercolors & markers
 Backpacks
 Scissors & erasers
… and more

Your 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. 

Got an Extra Can or Two? Let’s Fill the Little Free Pantries Together!

Our Little Free Pantries are running low—and for some neighbors, these are their only source of food right now.If you’ve got: A few extra cans A box of pasta Unopened hygiene items Kid-friendly snacks…you can make someone’s day a little easier. Just place your donation directly into any Burrito Brigade Little Free Pantry around town. No sign-up, no questions—just community caring for community. Find a pantry near you: BurritoBrigade.org/pantries It’s a simple act with a big impact. Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org

Oregon Health Authority –   · Evacuations can be challenging and stressful. It can be even more stressful if you were unable to grab your prescriptions.

If your prescriptions were lost, left behind or ran out after you evacuated, you may be able to get an emergency refill.

Running into issues with your insurance? The Oregon Prescription Drug Program offers a state-sponsored drug discount card program called Array Rx, open to any resident in Oregon, has no income limitations and does not have membership fees or requirements: https://ow.ly/SlaU50Wb80N

Not sure what to take with you during an evacuation? Check out this emergency packing list: https://ow.ly/vpC250Wb80O

Lane County Government — Part of being prepared for an emergency is knowing how you will receive emergency alerts and life safety information. Lane County uses several tools to alert residents.

Watch the video below to learn more about those tools and decide which ones you will rely on in the event of an emergency or disaster. https://vimeo.com/565852770 Sign up to receive Lane Alerts emergency alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org#NationalPreparednessMonth

“When It Hits The Fan”: Podcast by Lane County Emergency Management

This month on Lane County Emergency Management’s 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼𝑡 𝐻𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑛, Emergency Manager Tiffany Brown shares essential tips on what to do in an emergency.

Get ready, stay informed, and make sure you’re prepared for anything! Listen now: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube

About Lane County Emergency Management – Lane County Emergency Management is committed to preparing the community for emergencies and disasters through education, planning, and response coordination. Listen at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan. 

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)

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

Youth Empowerment Programs, City of Eugene

 Registration open for our FREE programs.
 Some programs are drop-in, so no registration is required—just show up and get involved!

For more information and links to register, visit our website: https://www.eugene-or.gov/4888/Youth-Empowerment-Program

Families: Need help with groceries this summer?

The Oregon Summer EBT (electronic benefit transfer) program helps families buy food for their school-aged children when school is out. Each summer, eligible families will get one yearly payment of $120 to buy groceries.

Learn who is automatically eligible and who needs to apply at sebt.oregon.gov. Questions? Please contact the Summer EBT Call Center at 1-833-673-7328 or summerebtinfo@odhs.oregon.gov.

Complimentary summer meals are provided for children in need throughout the state, including at camps and various programs.

The Summer Food Service Program is an initiative by the Oregon Department of Education aimed at addressing the gap that students encounter when free school meals are not accessible. Foster children, those receiving SNAP benefits, and participants in other programs are eligible for complimentary meals at registered summer programs. — To find a list of locations, please visit the Oregon Department of Education website.

Fire Season

As of July 1, all Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. This means that to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, fire restrictions may be in place where you live or at a destination you plan to visit or recreate. 

Here are some links regarding fire info for mainly Oregon.These links are very important and are updated daily.

* Northwest Coordination Centerhttps://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/fire_info.php…

* Central Oregon Fire Info Bloghttps://centraloregonfire.org/

* Lane County/Oregon Fire Updates – FB Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/650665385833845

* Oregon Fires 2025 FB pagehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1481912815460351

* South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership – SCOFMPhttps://www.facebook.com/SCOFMPFIREINFO

* US Forest Service – Deschuteshttps://www.facebook.com/deschutesnationalforest

* Rouge Weather – THE DAILY WILDLAND FIRE BRIEFINGhttps://www.facebook.com/RogueWeatherNow…

* Wildfire Trackerhttps://projects.oregonlive.com/wildfires/map

* Watch Duty websitehttps://www.watchduty.org/

* Watch Duty FB Page –https://www.facebook.com/watchdutyapp

* Pacific Aerial Firefighting Aircrafthttps://www.facebook.com/groups/344050713692737/

“We have already experienced several large fires in the state this year and anticipate fire behavior to be progressively more volatile. RIGHT NOW is the time to practice fire prevention and preparedness,” said Michael Curran, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Fire Protection Division Chief. 

As we move into the Fourth of July and the holiday weekend, it’s important to remember that forests and fireworks DO NOT MIX. Private use of fireworks is not allowed on forest land, which includes all private lands protected by ODF and all other state and federal forest lands in Oregon. Remember to check any additional city and county firework restrictions as well.  

Curran said, “Prevention is our number one tool to reduce property loss, firefighting costs, and risk to the lives of our firefighters. We can’t prevent lightning fires, but we can prevent human-caused fires.”

Now is the time to brush up on your wildfire prevention knowledge. Tips include:

• Know before you go. Campfires may be banned or only allowed in approved campgrounds.
• Make sure your campfire is cool to the touch before going to sleep or leaving your site. Don’t forget to Drown, Stir, Repeat. 
• Backyard debris burning either requires a burn permit during fire season or is prohibited altogether. If you burned earlier this spring, go back and check on your debris burn site to make sure nothing reignites due to the heat.
• Don’t flick a cigarette onto the ground. It may be just enough to start a fire.
• Don’t park or idle over dried grass.
• Don’t drag tow chains.
• Check local restrictions and fire danger levels.

ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state, and federal land in Oregon from wildfire. Fire season is declared at the local level when conditions reach a point where the risk of a fire starting and spreading becomes clear. This year, the Southwest Oregon district was the first to declare on June 1, and the North Cascade District was the last to declare on July 1. For more information on how you can help prevent wildfires, visit keeporegongreen.org. 

7/6 – 8 pmOREGON FIRES 72 ACTIVE WILDFIRES – 3884 – #acres#burned

HUMAN CAUSED FIRES UNDETERMINED NATURAL- FIRE MAP CLINK LINK – Click Map Tab https://geo.maps.arcgis.com/…/a6c8f8e58ad642f4813732233…

FIRE CAUSES Between 80 and 90 percent of wildfires are started by people, according to organizations like Oregon Emergency Management and ODF. Wildfires can start naturally, they often don’t. The rays of the sun and lightning can stoke flames. The climate crisis directly impacts the environment too. Severe droughts, heat waves, and the loss of biodiversity can increase the frequency and intensity of wildfires as well.

Fire investigators’ determination has to involve one of those four classifications: -1. Accidental-2. Natural Causes – Lightning, heat wave etc. -3. Incendiary (ARSON, Bombs, Spontaneous Combustion)-4. Undetermined FIRES (If there is more than one likely cause of the fire, and both categories have the same probability, then we must classify the fire as undetermined).

Lawmakers passed slate of bills meant to address state’s ‘woefully short’ housing supply

The state Legislature passed at least a dozen bills meant to protect renter security deposits, boost housing production and ensure access to homeless shelters statewide

Oregon lawmakers passed at least a dozen bills meant to address the state’s housing crisis during the recently wrapped, six-month legislative session.

Rep. Pam Marsh, an Ashland Democrat and the chair of the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness said Democrats and Republicans share an understanding of Oregon’s housing issues, making it easier to pass policies that address them. 

“We know the state is woefully short on housing,” she told the Capital Chronicle. “We know that affects the people who need that housing. It drives our homelessness numbers. It is tough for people who want to hire or bring people to the state when we don’t have enough housing. And it’s difficult for first-time homeowners.”

Marsh spearheaded many bills passed this session meant to boost housing production and help renters. The biggest disappointment, however, was not being able to put more money toward rent support and eviction prevention programs, she said.

Gov. Tina Kotek recommended in a December budget proposal that the Legislature allocate $173.2 million in the next biennium to maintain the state’s eviction prevention services and to prevent Oregonians from becoming homeless. But by the end of the legislative session, lawmakers instead slashed eviction prevention funding by 74%, the Oregonian reported, investing $34 million in eviction protection programs for the next two years. 

“We didn’t get everything funded that we would like to fund, but the policy bills that we checked off are very strong for renters,” Marsh said. 

The Oregon Capital Chronicle compiled a list of some of the bills that passed the Oregon Legislature during the 2025 legislative session impacting renters, developers, seniors and unhoused individuals. Many of the bills also encourage the development of less expensive housing types. Some bills already took effect and others are awaiting signature from Kotek, who has three weeks left to sign bills into law.

Helping Oregon renters, tracking home ownership rates 

Limiting rent increases for manufactured home park residents – House Bill 3054 caps annual rent increases at 6 %for people living in manufactured home parks and floating home marinas with more than 30 spaces. Kotek signed the bill into law, and it takes effect  on Sept. 1. 

There are about 140,000 manufactured housing units in Oregon, according to CASA of Oregon. While many people living in these units own their homes, two out of five manufactured homeowners pay rent for the land underneath them.

“This will make it possible for many more people to stay in their manufactured homes for a much longer period of time,” Marsh said. 

Rent deposits back – House Bill 3521 will let Oregon renters who haven’t yet signed a lease get their deposits back if the home they’ve applied to live in has mold, unsafe electrical wiring or other defects. It was signed into law in June and takes effect on Jan. 1.

Homeownership goals – House Bill 2698 creates a state goal to reach a 65% homeownership rate by 2030 – followed by an additional 1.65% increase for every five years for 15 years. It mandates the Oregon Housing and Community Services Department create a dashboard tracking progress on homeownership rates across the state that include race and ethnicity data. The bill immediately took effect upon receiving Kotek’s signature on May 28.

Preventing homelessness in Oregon

Creating a statewide shelter program – House Bill 3644 requires the Oregon Housing and Community Services Department create a statewide shelter program. It tasks the department with appointing regional coordinators and distributing funding for services meant to reduce homelessness statewide and transition people into stable housing. The Legislature approved $204 million to fund the program for the 2025-27 biennium. The bill is awaiting signature from Kotek and would take effect upon passage.

“For the first time ever, we are putting into statute what the state shelter program framework should look like, and that framework identifies what kind of services are appropriate for state investment,” Marsh, the bill’s chief sponsor, said.

Investing in senior housing, accessibility support – House Bill 3589 requires the Oregon Housing and Community Services Department to use $23 million from senior property tax deferrals to develop, rehabilitate or preserve housing for older adults and people with disabilities. Kotek is expected to sign the bill into law. 

People 65 and older make up about 20% of Oregon’s population, or about 4.3 million people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.  

The bill compliments House Bill 3506, also awaiting the governor’s signature, which puts $3 million starting in January to support seniors or people with disabilities who rent or own their homes but need to install a ramp, grab bars or other accessibility features in their homes. The bills passed nearly unanimously in both chambers.

Housing production bills

Oregon needs to build about 30,000 more homes each year, mostly in the Portland and Willamette Valley region, to meet the state’s housing demand, according to a January report from the Office of Economic Analysis at the Oregon Department of Administrative Services. 

Kotek set a goal of getting 36,000 new homes built per year, but developers pulled only about 14,000 residential permits last year — slightly more than a third of the way to that goal — and most of those permits were for single-family homes. The following bills, many of which Kotek is expected to sign into law, aim to increase Oregon’s housing supply. 

Condo liability reform – House Bill 3746 is meant to incentivize condo development by limiting the timeframe homeowners and condominium associations have to sue developers for construction defects from 10 to seven years. 

Condos are usually more affordable than traditional single-family homes, but they are under-built in Oregon because it is easy to sue contractors for defects, making condos riskier to build and buy than a traditional home, according to the League of Oregon Cities.  

Preventing bans on mobile homes in future developments – House Bill 3144, signed into law and taking effect Jan. 1, will prevent housing developments, subdivisions and “planned communities” from banning manufactured and modular homes when they otherwise allow residential housing.

Expanding middle housing in cities – House Bill 2138 allows for more middle housing, such as duplexes, triplexes and townhomes, in more places in cities and unincorporated lands. It prevents local governments from blocking middle housing on any land where a single-family home can be built. 

“This bill says a structure can count as a duplex if it’s two homes on a lot without having to share a wall,” Regional sustainability think-tank Sightline Institute’s Housing and Cities Director Michael Anderson told the Capital Chronicle. “That’s still functionally the same housing type and the state is going to recognize it as such. It’s going to say that cities have to allow two homes on a lot to be either attached or detached, however people want.”

Supporting factory-produced housing – House Bill 3145 allows the Oregon Housing and Community Services Department to take $25 million for the biennium from the Local Innovation and Fast Track Housing Program Fund to support housing projects that use factory-based components for low-income households.

Speeding up housing development process – Senate Bill 974 speeds up the process of reviewing housing permits. It requires local governments to confirm completed applications within 30 days or request more materials and approve or deny permits for development within 120 days of completing the application. 

Allowing state to preapprove housing plans – House Bill 2258 allows the state Land Conservation and Development Commission and Department of Consumer and Business Services to preapprove housing plans, easing the development process. It passed nearly unanimously in both chambers.

Establishing a Housing Infrastructure Financing Program – House Bill 3031 creates a program through the Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority to provide financial assistance for infrastructure projects that support housing developments to local governments and tribes. The program will receive $10 million in lottery funds for the 2025-27 biennium. (SOURCE)

Governor Kotek orders Oregon schools to prohibit students from using cellphones

The executive order follows the failure to pass a similar bill during the 2025 Legislative Session and will help student mental health and learning, Kotek said.

By the middle of the upcoming school year, Oregon students will not be allowed to use their cellphones in school.

Gov. Tina Kotek on Wednesday issued an executive order to Oregon’s 197 school districts, requiring they adopt a policy for banning student cellphone use by Oct. 31, 2025. Those policies must be fully implemented by Jan. 1, 2026, the order reads.

The move follows the Legislature’s failure to pass a similar, bipartisan bill — House Bill 2251 — during the recent legislative session.

That bill would have, with some exceptions, required districts to ban cellphones for all grades, and enforce penalties on students who violate cellphone policies. But it failed to clear a key Senate committee vote. It faced opposition from powerful school board and school administrator groups, which expressed concerns about the state mandating policies that they felt school districts themselves should handle. Some school district leaders testified that enforcing the ban would be prohibitively expensive for them to do.

But State Rep. Lisa Reynolds, D-Beaverton, a doctor and chief sponsor of the bill that failed to pass, said in a news release that she was glad Kotek stepped in.

“By getting cellphones out of our schools, Governor Kotek is putting students first,” she said. “Every Oregon student deserves a distraction-free, harassment-free learning environment that fosters curiosity and community.”

The order technically bans all “personal electronic devices,” which includes any portable, electrically powered device capable of making and receiving calls and text messages, and that can access the internet independently from the school’s wireless network, such as a smart watch. It does not include laptops or other devices that support classroom activities.

In November, the Oregon Department of Education issued guidance to districts on limiting or ending cellphone use in schools. State law currently requires every school district to have policies about cellphones and personal electronic devices, but each district gets to set its own rules.

At least eight Oregon school districts have already either banned use in individual classes or in schools altogether, according to the state education department. Full bans have been enacted at some middle and high schools in the Lincoln County School District, Portland Public Schools, and in the Nyssa School District. The Lake Oswego School District bans cellphones for students in all K-12 schools.

Kotek in a news release said that model policies for schools that already have prohibitions in place will be made available, and the state will offer some flexibility in implementation.

“The research is clear,” Korek said, “cellphone use can create a trifecta of consequences for our young people – mental health issues, safety in school, and distraction from learning.”

A growing body of research and teacher surveys show student cellphone use in schools is hindering more than helping the school experience.

In a May 2023 advisory, then-U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy recommended parents set limits on phone use, and in June 2024, Murthy called for health warnings on social media platforms for younger users, who research shows are suffering from higher rates of mental health issues when spending hours on the platforms each day.

A Pew Research Center survey from October 2023 found that more than two-thirds of U.S. adults favor banning cellphones during class, and almost two-thirds of high school teachers said cellphones have become a major distraction and impediment to learning.

The order makes Oregon one of at least 19 states that have adopted statewide cellphone bans in schools.

Press Release: SOLVE Launches Summer with SOLVE Campaign to Take Action and Preserve Outdoor Spaces —

– Summer is here, and with it comes more opportunities to enjoy the PNW’s beaches, parks, and rivers. However, the increased outdoor activity also leads to more litter and strain on the environment. To combat this, SOLVE is launching its Summer with SOLVE campaign, designed to take action, connect communities, and celebrate the beauty of our region through environmental action.

“Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a time to ensure these spaces remain clean and sustainable for future generations,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “Together, we can create cleaner, more inviting spaces that reflect our pride in our region and our commitment to caring for the environment. By working together, we can make a significant impact and inspire others to join in the effort to protect our natural spaces that we love to enjoy, especially during summer.”

SOLVE kicked off summer with Pick It Up, Portland!, a citywide celebration on World Environment Day, June 5. The event focused on four different locations across Portland: Market Street Downtown, Holladay Park, Sellwood Riverfront Park, and Eastbank Esplanade. This was the first of many volunteer opportunities offered by SOLVE this summer, with more projects planned throughout the season, including the ongoing Waterway Cleanup Series, protecting the health of local rivers, streams and creeks.

What You’ll See This Summer

As outdoor recreation increases, SOLVE volunteers will:

• Remove litter from parks, neighborhoods, beaches, and riverbanks
• Maintain recreation sites and public green spaces
• Mulch around native trees and shrubs
• Remove invasive plant species that thrive in summer months like Japanese knotweed, Himalayan blackberry, and Scotch broom

Key Summer Events:

• Afterglow: Post-4th Cleanups (July 5-6): Volunteers will tackle the debris left behind from holiday celebrations to help restore outdoor spaces and shorelines.
• Willamette River Cleanup (August 9): A focused cleanup of the Willamette River, combating litter both on the water and along the riverbanks.
• Waterway Cleanup Series (ongoing through September): A series of cleanup efforts dedicated to preserving Oregon’s rivers and streams during the peak outdoor season.
• Monthly Detrash Portland Events: Community cleanups in Portland’s business districts, focusing on revitalizing key areas in the city.

Looking ahead, SOLVE is also preparing for its annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup, September 20-28, part of the global International Coastal Cleanup, World Rivers Day and National Public Lands Day initiatives.

Join Summer with SOLVE – This summer, SOLVE invites you to take part in protecting and preserving the natural spaces that make our region special. Whether you’re volunteering at a cleanup event, leading your own group, or taking on a DIY project, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.

Try the Trash Bag Challenge—pick up a bag of litter, then challenge friends or coworkers to do the same. Pass the bag, spread the impact, and inspire others to take action.

Every effort counts. Together, we can keep our neighborhoods, parks, and waterways clean and beautiful for generations to come.

For more information about Summer with SOLVE and how to get involved, visit solveoregon.org/seasons or follow us on social media.

About SOLVE – SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

Cold Case Homicide Solved in Josephine County

Teresa Peroni

RELEASE DATE: June 30, 2025
INCIDENT: Homicide- Cold Case

INCIDENT DATE: July 1983

REPORTING DEPUTY: Detective Sergeant Henrich

ARRESTED: 72-year-old, Mark Sanfratello

DETAILS: In February of 2024, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Oregon Department of Justice, Josephine County District Attorney’s Office and the Chico California Police Department, re-opened the investigation regarding the 1983 disappearance and murder of Teresa Peroni.

At the time,Teresa was 27 years old and was known to be in a relationship with Mark Sanfratello who was 29. On or around July 4th, 1983, Teresa was last seen with Sanfratello walking into a wooded area while attending a party in the 1000 block of Illinois River Road.

After a short time, the family of Peroni reported her missing and an investigation took place. During this initial investigation, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office found the disappearance to be suspicious in nature. However, after the investigation with the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office, in was determined that there was not enough probable cause to move forward with criminal prosecution.

In 1997, a human skull was located by individuals on a nearby property and a search took place with the use of a cadaver dog and search personnel. No other human remains were located and the skull was sent for examination and DNA testing through the University of North Texas (UNT).

In 2024, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office re-opened the investigation. The Sheriff’s Office started by looking for any known individuals still alive that had some type of involvement with the cold case and knew details of the initial Peroni investigation. Additional DNA was collected and submitted to UNT. With the additional DNA, UNT was able to confirm the skull located in 1997 was that of Peroni.

On June 27th, 2025, after locating multiple individuals associated with Peroni, DNA results and the original case/investigation, a Josephine County Grand Jury indicted Sanfratello on the charge of Murder.

On June 28th, 2025, with the assistance of The Chico Police Department, Sanfratello was located and taken into custody without incident. Subsequently, he was questioned regarding his involvement with the disappearance and murder of Peroni.

Sanfratello remains in custody in California and will be extradited back to Josephine County. Next of kin has been notified of the status of this case.  —  At the time of this press release, no further information is being released.

Oregon’s minimum wage increased by 35 cents per hour – The state adjusts the minimum wage annually on July 1.

This year’s increase is set at 2.4% — the lowest since 2015. In 2015, the Oregon Legislature sanctioned seven consecutive annual increases in the minimum wage and mandated additional increases linked to the cost of living, starting in 2023.

With inflation subsiding last year, the rise in minimum wage is also reduced. Oregon is distinctive as it has three different minimum wage levels: a highest tier for the Portland area, a ‘standard’ tier for other urban and semi-urban counties (which will be $15.05 per hour), and a lower tier (which will be $14.05) for rural regions of the state.

All three tiers rank among the highest in the country and significantly exceed the federal minimum wage, which has remained at $7.25 per hour since 2009.

Webinar series to honor 35 years of disability civil rights kicks off July 8

— The public is invited to a series of free webinars featuring conversations with disabilities advocates, experts and influencers who will share the latest information on educational and employment access, challenging perceptions about disabilities, as well as how to remove barriers.

Topics by date are:

• July 8: Striving for educational access and equity for students with disabilities
• July 15: Working toward equal access employment for people with disabilities
• July 22: Hannah and Shane Burcaw, who host YouTube channel Squirmy and Grubs on changing perceptions about disabilities
• July 29: Oregon’s journey to accessibility: removing barriers

The free weekly webinar series is being hosted by Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC), Oregon Department of Human Services, Northwest ADA Center and Disability Rights Oregon in recognition and celebration of the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“The Americans with Disabilities Act was a landmark victory in the fight for civil rights, laying the foundation for greater equity and independence. The anniversary of the Act is an opportunity to reflect on the progress we’ve made and to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and accessible Oregon for people with disabilities,” said Mark King, Chair of ODC. “We are grateful to our co-hosts for their partnership in presenting the upcoming webinar series. Their collaboration helps ensure we continue to educate, engage and advocate in ways that honor the spirit and impact of the ADA.”

The series will take place every Tuesday throughout July, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time, beginning July 8. The sessions are open to the public, and registration is now available through the event web page on Zoom.

The series will be accessible to people with disabilities and will be translated into Spanish. Captioning and American Sign Language interpretation will also be provided. For questions about accessibility for the webinar series, or to request an accommodation, contact egonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov“>OregonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

More information about the series, including presenter biographies and shareable flyers, will be shared on the Oregon Department of Human Services ADA event web page.

About the Oregon Disabilities Commission: The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations serving individuals with disabilities.

New e-bike rules begin July 1 at Oregon State Parks and the ocean shore

Electric-assist bicycles (e-bikes) are now allowed on trails where other bicycles are allowed unless specifically prohibited at Oregon State Parks. 

E-bikes are also allowed on the ocean shore on wet sand except where specifically restricted.

Previously, e-bikes were only allowed on trails that were at least 8 feet wide. Signs will be posted on trails and areas where e-bikes are not allowed, and the trails and areas will be listed on the Oregon State Parks website.  

Where e-bikes are not allowed:

• On the dry sand along the ocean shore, including soft sand, dunes and everything above the natural high-tide line
• On the wet sand below the natural high-tide line in snowy plover habitat on the ocean shore during nesting season (March 15 to Sept. 15).
• Elijah Bristow State Park (all trails)
• Willamette Mission State Park (all equestrian trails and the Vision Trail)
• Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site (Riverside Trail)
• Emigrant Springs State Natural Area (Lewis and Clark Trail)

The updated rules also include stronger and clearer language on safety, particularly operation around other visitors, pets, children and equestrians.  

“We ask that all riders ride responsibly, stay on designated trails and yield to others at Oregon State Parks and the ocean shore. Please keep operating speeds low as people might not be aware that riders are approaching. These are multi-use pathways where they will share the trail with many other users,” said Aaron Raines, park manager at Stub Stewart State Park.  

The rules apply to Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes as defined by the Oregon State Legislature. Anything not included in those e-bike classifications is considered a motor vehicle and is not allowed on trails.  

E-bike classification: 

• Class 1: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 mph. 
• Class 2: May be propelled by its motor without a rider pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph. 
• Class 3: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 mph, and is equipped with a speedometer. 

While education remains the primary focus for rule enforcement at Oregon State Parks, enforcement rangers do have the authority to issue citations, which carry fines starting at $100 for significant or repeated violations of park rules.  

Safety tips for sharing the path:  

• Yield to pedestrians, horses and slower users  
• Announce yourself when passing (“On your left”)  
• Ride at a safe, controlled speed, especially on corners or in high-use areas  
• Slow down near pets, children and equestrians  
• Stay on designated trails: do not ride off-trail  
• Be prepared to stop: e-bikes are heavier and often faster than regular bikes so increase your following distance to allow for more time to stop and slow down. 

For more information and a list of trails where e-bikes are prohibited, visit Oregon State Parks website at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.page&id=131

As Oregonians confront swiftly rising utility costs, state legislators are advocating for new laws to protect consumers.

The FAIR Energy Act (HB 3179), which has successfully passed the House and is now in the Senate, seeks to reform the method by which utility rates are determined, ensuring enhanced accountability and preventing power disconnections during essential winter months.

Rep. Pam Marsh (D-Southern Jackson County) stated that the primary goal of the FAIR Act is to assess the effects of soaring energy prices on consumers. She detailed significant protections, noting, “One of the provisions of the bill is that utilities are prohibited from disconnecting power during winter months, and they are also barred from implementing rate increases during that time.”

Marsh further discussed the challenges many Oregonians encounter, saying, “I believe you are witnessing genuine calculations for individuals regarding whether to pay a utility bill or to allocate funds for groceries.” The legislation will mandate that utilities requesting rate hikes provide an economic analysis of the impact on their customer base, recognizing the direct repercussions of escalating costs driven by factors such as wildfire management, inflation, and heightened demand due to warmer summers.

This legislation signifies a wider initiative to alleviate the financial strain on residents, with Marsh clarifying that “this bill elevates the community and the ratepayers to a higher threshold than we have experienced in the past, ensuring that our needs and the implications of what the utility proposes will truly be taken into account.

Ways for people to protect their EBT card

Imagine suddenly losing $250 of your monthly budget. What would you have to give up—meals, medication, peace of mind?

For more than 1,500 families in Oregon, this wasn’t a thought exercise. It happened to them in 2024 when they reported their food or cash benefits were stolen, likely through organized fraud.

This theft of food and cash benefits­­—Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)—are a growing and serious problem nationwide and here in Oregon.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is working hard to fight this theft. The agency urges everyone who uses SNAP or TANF to protect their EBT card and benefits. Easy ways to protect your EBT card include:

• Freeze the card between uses
• Block out-of-state and online purchases
• Check EBT account regularly

More information is available on the Protect Your EBT Card and Benefits webpage. There is a brochure, flyer and wallet card available in many languages. There are also short videos about using an EBT card, how to replace an EBT card and all the ways to protect your EBT benefits. These are posted in the How-to Videos section of benefits.oregon.gov.

How to manage your medical, food, cash and child care benefits:

• In your language: Help in Your Language.
• By phone: Call 1-800-699-9075. Some self-service features are available 24/7, such as checking your benefit status or ordering a new EBT card. All relay calls are accepted.
• Online at: benefits.oregon.gov.
• Through the free Oregon ONE Mobile app available on Apple and Android app stores.
• In person at an office near you: Find an office.
• By mail at: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309.
• By fax at: 503-378-5628.

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find food resources.
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, 211info.org

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

Victims of child sexual abuse or sexual assault will have an unlimited timeframe to file lawsuits against their abusers, as well as against institutions that facilitated the abuse, according to a bill that received overwhelming and often emotional support in the Oregon House on Thursday.

House Bill 3582 aims to align Oregon with a growing number of states that are either expanding or abolishing statutes of limitations for civil actions related to sexual assault or child sexual abuse.  Currently, under existing law, individuals who experienced sexual abuse during childhood must file claims by the age of 40, or within five years of when they establish a link between the abuse and the harms they have endured, whichever period is longer.

Adult victims of sexual assault have a five-year window from the time they recognize a connection between the assault and the harms they have faced.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking a volunteer to serve a three-year term as the Equestrian Representative on the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants Advisory Committee starting in 2026.

The ten-member committee evaluates grant proposals for statewide trail projects. The committee meets once or twice a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state.

The time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating 25 to 40 grant applications per year. Committee members serve three-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term.

Ideal candidates representing the interest of equestrian trail users can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Land management
• Recreation planning
• Trail planning or design
• Recreation related volunteerism, or
• A trail enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate statewide project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates may also demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational trail needs, other broad recreational issues and the importance of providing equitable, inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities.

Those interested in serving must submit an RTP advisory committee interest form by June 30, 2025. The form is available online and includes more detailed information about serving on the committee: https://form.jotform.com/232364818278162

The competitive grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and administered by OPRD. Grants are awarded to non-profits and government entities for motorized and non-motorized trail projects, including building new trails, improving existing trails and developing or improving trail facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator, at Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-856-6316.

Kyron Horman disappearance investigation continues 15 years later as police digitize case files

Law enforcement is scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence to be digitized, 15 years after Kyron’s disappearance.

As the 15th anniversary of Kyron Horman’s disappearance approaches, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) says its investigation into his disappearance remains ongoing, announcing that case files will be digitized. 

The MCSO and Gresham Police detectives are scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence to be digitized. When the case is digitized, the file will be reexamined by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, laying out the foundation “for a fresh and comprehensive review of the entire investigation,” according to MCSO. 

MCSO detectives in the coming months will meet with Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez and his team to further evaluate.

Kyron was last seen on the morning of June 4, 2010, at a science fair at Skyline Elementary School in Portland. 

A $50,000 reward remains available for information leading to the resolution of Kyron’s disappearance. Anyone with information is asked to call MCSO’s tipline at 503-988-0560, email tips@mcso.us or reach out to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) via 1-800-THE-LOST or online at the NCMEC CyberTipLine. (SOURCE)

Summer EBT for school-aged children returns for second year

Need to know:

• Oregon Summer EBT is a federal benefits program to help families buy food for their school-aged children during the summer.
• Oregon expects to provide up to 370,000 school-aged children with around $40 million in Summer EBT food benefits this year.
• Each eligible child receives a one-time payment of $120 in food benefits.
• About 341,500 eligible children received Summer EBT automatically on May 22, 2025 but some families need to apply.

(Salem, OR) – Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) is a food benefits program that helps shrink the hunger gap when children are on summer break and don’t have easy access to healthy meals at school. Summer EBT provides $120 per eligible child to buy food. 

This is the second year of Oregon’s Summer EBT program. On May 22, 2025, about 336,000 children got the benefit on an Oregon EBT card. Families should check their EBT card balance at www.ebtedge.com to confirm receipt.

Families who didn’t automatically get Summer EBT on May 22, 2025 should check program requirements before applying. Families can check requirements at sebt.oregon.gov or by contacting the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-673-7328. The Call Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., PDT. Apply online in English and Spanish or with a paper application in multiple languages at sebt.oregon.gov. 

“When school doors close for the summer, the need for regular, healthy meals doesn’t disappear. Last year, the summer EBT program bridged a critical gap for thousands of Oregon families, helping to replace those essential 10 meals per child, per week, that they receive when school is in session,” said Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). “We are proud to continue this partnership with ODHS to not only feed children, but to nurture their potential during crucial developmental months. Our continued commitment ensures that summer can be a season of growth and opportunity for all children, regardless of their economic circumstances.”

In 2024, about 362,000 children participated and received $43 million in Summer EBT food benefits their families spent in their local grocery stores, farmers markets, and other places.

“Summer EBT is one more way we can prevent kids from going hungry when school is out. Summer EBT is an evidence-based program proven to reduce child hunger and support healthier diets,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director. “Child hunger can have lasting impacts on health and academic achievement. Getting every eligible child connected to Summer EBT will help Oregon’s children thrive year-round and as they grow up.”

Who is eligible for Summer EBT food benefits? Families can find details about Summer EBT at sebt.oregon.gov. 

Your school-age child may be automatically eligible if:

• Your family received Summer EBT benefits through an approved application in 2024.
• Your family gets SNAP, TANF or Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) and meets income rules.
• Your child gets free or reduced-price school meals and meets income rules.
• Your child is in foster care, in migrant education, in a qualified Head Start, experiencing homelessness, or part of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).

Children who are automatically eligible received Summer EBT on May 22, 2025.

Your school-age child may be eligible by application if:

• Your family meets the federal income requirements for free or reduced-price meals at school, and
• Your child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Families must apply by Sept. 3, 2025.

Receiving Summer EBT does not impact participation in other summer meal programs.

Summer EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test and are available to children regardless of immigration status. 

How will families receive Summer EBT food benefits?

The benefits will be placed on an Oregon EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and more.

Families that need a new card should call 855-328-6715, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT).

Families that think their children may be eligible and didn’t get benefits on May 22 must apply by September 3. If approved, they will receive an Oregon EBT card by mail.

Stolen Summer EBT benefits can’t be replaced.

You can protect your Oregon EBT card and benefits from electronic theft by following a few simple tips.

Where can families get more information? To learn more, or to apply, visit sebt.oregon.gov.

Call the Oregon Summer EBT Call Center at 1-833-673-7328 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT) on weekdays. All relay calls accepted.

More about Summer EBT – Summer EBT became a permanent program for states and certain Indian Tribal Organizations through the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. Most states began providing Summer EBT in June 2024. Oregon’s participation was made possible through an investment from the Oregon State Legislature of $12 million. That investment will draw $83 million in federal funding to Oregon, mostly in the form of food benefits families will spend in their communities. 

Additional resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Find summer meal sites:  https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or https://www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: https://www.caporegon.org/find-help

OHA to issue algae warnings when dog deaths reported  

As summer approaches, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reminds people heading outdoors to enjoy the state’s lakes, rivers and reservoirs to be on the look-out for potentially toxic cyanobacteria blooms.  

To help, OHA is adding a tool reporting the possible presence of cyanobacteria in freshwater lakes and rivers statewide. Starting immediately, OHA will issue pre-emptive public warnings following reports of dog illnesses or deaths possibly resulting from cyanotoxin exposure.  

OHA advises recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms in the water and in mats attached to the ground or rocks. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.  

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab. 

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.

OHA 2025 Oregon Beach Monitoring Season

Agency lists monitored beaches for May-September

—The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program (OBMP) is kicking off the 2025 season by announcing the coastal recreation areas it will be keeping an eye on for bacteria during summer and early fall.

The OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division, monitors some of the most frequently visited beaches in the state. The list includes beaches where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution.

• To see a video about Oregon’s beach monitoring effort, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82GVixgeGsM

The following beaches are being monitored this season, including name, and the city and county in which they are located:

• Seaside Beach – Seaside, Clatsop County
• Cannon Beach – Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Tolovana Beach State Park– Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Short Sand Beach (Oswald West State Park) – Arch Cape, Tillamook County
• Manzanita Beach – Manzanita, Tillamook County
• Rockaway Beach – Rockaway, Tillamook County
• Twin Rocks Beach – Twin Rocks, Tillamook County
• Oceanside Beach – Oceanside, Tillamook County
• Cape Kiwanda Beach – Pacific City, Tillamook County
• Neskowin Beach – Neskowin, Tillamook County
• D River Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Siletz Bay Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Beverly Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Agate Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Nye Beach – Newport, Lincoln City
• Ona Beach (Brian Booth-Beaver Creek State Park) – Seal Rock, Lincoln City
• Seal Rock Beach – Seal Rock, Lincoln County
• Heceta Beach – Florence, Lane County
• Bastendorff Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Sunset Bay State Park Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Hubbard Creek Beach – Port Orford, Curry County
• Harris Beach State Park – Brookings, Curry County
• Mill Beach – Brookings, Curry County
• Crissey Fields State Recreation Site – Brookings, Curry County

The OBMP season runs from mid-May to mid-September.  Advisories are issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within this sampling window. Other beaches will be investigated for inclusion in upcoming seasons.

The OBMP works with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to determine beaches that need monitoring based on several criteria. These criteria include pollution hazards present; previous monitoring data that identify water quality concerns; type and amount of beach use; and public input.

As part of an adaptive sampling plan, beaches and sampling locations are routinely re-evaluated to ensure available resources best protect public health. A copy of DEQ’s beach evaluation is available upon request.

For more information and current beach monitoring conditions please visit: www.healthoregon.org/beach, or contact OBMP at each.Health@oha.oregon.gov” rel=”noopener” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;” target=”_blank”>Beach.Health@oha.oregon.gov or 1-877-290-6767. 

Oregon’s Missing Persons

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

 Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline.

It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com