Willamette Valley News, Wednesday 1/28 – Conflict and Chaos from ICE and CPB at Federal Building and Candlelight Vigil, Army Corps of Engineers Developing Long-Term Plans for Fern Ridge Lake Requests Public Input & 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

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Willamette Valley Weather

Winter is here! Here’s the overview of our winter outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

Conflict and Chaos from ICE and CPB at Federal Building and Candlelight Vigil

January 27 – In response to a planned Candlelight Vigil in honor of Alex Pretti, there was a large federal response that made their presence known. The first wave of agents happened just after noon and saw three arrests, all of whom were released. The second wave occurred around 2:30 p.m. and resulted in two more arrests. A third wave came around 4:30 p.m. with more arrests.

The vigil at 5 p.m., organized by the Oregon Nurses Association, came after altercations earlier in the day between demonstrators outside the building and federal agents, who deployed pepper spray, fired pepper bombs and detained multiple people. 

Organizers set up rows of candles on the steps of the plaza outside the Eugene Federal Building on Seventh Avenue and Pearl Street, which houses an office for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other agencies. 

 Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson also spoke, urging the crowd to not be distracted by the federal government’s “division and hatred” and instead to stand together as a community. 

“While we as a community might be heartbroken by these actions and by the horrors that we are seeing across our country, our spirit is not broken,” she said. “We stand together, and we will come through this time, and we will walk this path into the future, and we will be stronger on the other side.”

Videos from Eugene yesterday and last night as ICE attacks the people during a peaceful Interfaith vigil “Singing For Our Lives” and again in the immediate aftermath of the vigil for Alex Pretti hosted by Oregon Nurses Association. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qon6CcAKSfVcCG8fymwUerABg0XtRvms/view

Federal agents pepper sprayed and pepper bombed protesters in front of the Federal Building in downtown Eugene . Later, the protesters rushed the doors, attempting to storm the front entrance chanting “ICE out.”

Even though U.S. District Court Judge Ann Aiken issued a temporary restraining order refraining the Department of Homeland Security from enforcing the provision on the sidewalks surrounding the Federal Building at Sixth and Pearl streets.

The temporary restraining order has been extended three times since it was first issued Dec. 10, pending a response from the federal government. Now, the restraining order is set to expire Feb. 20, 2026.

Local nurses and healthcare workers, elected officials, and community advocates held a candlelight vigil at 5pm to honor Alex Pretti and all those killed and harmed by federal officers. Alex Pretti was an intensive care nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital who was shot and killed by federal border patrol agents Saturday while observing immigration enforcement activities and attempting to aid a woman federal agents shoved to the ground.

January 27, 2026 – the conflict between ICE and Eugene locals began.

At approximately 2:30p.m., as dozens of protesters chanted just outside the front doors of the federal building, a flock of at least 15 federal agents descended on the protesters. Some wore black uniforms with “police” written on the front and DHS badges on the arms. Others wore tactical camouflage uniforms embroidered with “SRT” (Special Response Team).

https://www.facebook.com/reel/766502459284062

ICE and CBP just came out heavily armored and attacked protesters near the Singing For Our Lives vigil

Chemical irritants are fired into the crowd outside the Eugene Federal Building on Jan. 27.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/909198564900112

Today, CD-4 Candidate Dr. Melissa Bird released the following statement in response to the violent attack of peaceful protesters at the Eugene federal building yesterday:

Eugene Police Department

“We appreciate Attorney General Dan Rayfield clarifying and providing clear guidelines for how we as a local law enforcement agency can better keep our community safe while observing Oregon’s sanctuary laws.” – Chief Chris Skinner From Department of Justice: Law Enforcement Awareness Guide for Interactions with Civil Immigration Authorities: https://www.doj.state.or.us/…/Law-Enforcement-Awareness…

Army Corps of Engineers Developing Long-Term Plans for Fern Ridge Lake Requests Public Input

Two public meetings were held by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding its master plan for Fern Ridge Lake and other area reservoirs.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) held two public meetings in January 2026—a virtual session on Jan. 21 and an in-person meeting in Veneta on Jan. 24—to update the 40-year-old master plan for Fern Ridge Lake. These meetings, part of a broader review of Willamette Valley reservoirs, aimed to gather community input on recreation, environmental stewardship, and land use for the next several decades. Key details regarding the Master Plan updates:

• Scope: The process includes updating master plans for Fern Ridge Lake, as well as Fall Creek, Dexter, Lookout Point, and Hills Creek Lakes.
• Purpose: The USACE is seeking input on the future of these lakes, focusing on balancing recreational needs with environmental conservation and safety.
• Next Steps: Following these initial scoping meetings, the USACE will develop a draft document, which will be released for further public review and comment later.
• Background: The current Fern Ridge plan was last updated in 1988, necessitating a review to reflect current conditions, user patterns, and environmental standards. 

Further information and opportunities to submit feedback can be found on the USACE Portland District website. https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Releases/Article/4381405/usace-developing-long-term-plans-for-fern-ridge-lake-requests-public-input/

LCSO Case 26-0411 – Lane County Sheriff’s K9 apprehends wanted man near Cottage Grove

On January 26th at 5 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a residence in the 31800 block of Cottage Grove Lorane Road, to look for Robert David Clark, 44, of Cottage Grove. Clark had warrants for his arrest out of Umatilla County for Trespass in the 1st Degree and Theft in the 3rd Degree, and out of Morrow County for Trespass in the 1st Degree, Trespass in the 2nd Degree, and Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle.  

Deputies contacted Clark at the front door of the residence. Instead of cooperating, he ran out the back door. A sergeant responded with K9 Hektor and began searching the area. Clark was eventually located by K9 Hektor hiding in the shed of a nearby property.  

Clark refused to exit, and attempted to hold the door closed despite admonishments that a K9 would be deployed. K9 Hektor made entry and apprehended Clark. Deputies saw smoke start to rise from behind the door and heard a hissing noise. Once Clark was in custody, deputies discovered K9 Hektor had latched onto Clark through a cell phone in his pocket – which then proceeded to catch fire.  

Clark was cleared on scene by medics and lodged at the Lane County Jail on the warrants and an additional charge of Trespass in the 2nd Degree.   K9 Hektor was uninjured.

Only Grocery Store in Drain Closing

Ray’s Food Place is the only grocery store in Drain and it’ is going to close next month. The last day is set for February 13. This follows the US Bank across from Ray’s Food Place which shut down on January 15th.

Drain, Oregon, known as the “Gateway to the Pacific,” is a historic timber community in Douglas County located 8 miles west of I-5 (Exit 162). It serves as a, scenic, direct access point to the Oregon Coast via Highway 38, which runs west to Reedsport (roughly 55 miles away). 

C&K Market, a Medford based company, owns Ray’s Food Place, and announced the closure of the Drain location on January13. Their president, Rocky Campbell, provided the following statement: “This was not an easy decision. The Drain community welcomed us into their daily lives, and we are sincerely thankful for the strong relationships built along the way.”

The closest grocery store for Drain residents will soon be a at least a 15 to 20 minute drive away. Their only choices for getting groceries is either going to Cottage Grove or Roseburg. This will impact people too who have long made it a point to stop in Drain before heading to the coast.

Eugene event puts focus on improving safety, health for workers with training, learning opportunities

A two-day event in Eugene will offer employers and workers opportunities to hear from experts about how to create and maintain safe and healthy working conditions. Topics include everything from the importance of safety committees and the keys to a successful safety culture to best practices for electrical safety and tips on designing a strong heat-illness prevention program.

Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (Oregon OSHA) – a division of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services – joins the Cascade Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals and Lane County Human Resource Association in encouraging employers and workers to attend the 21st biennial Cascade Occupational Safety and Health Conference, to be held March 3-4 at the Graduate by Hilton Eugene, 66 E. Sixth Ave.

On Tuesday, March 3, the conference will feature a keynote presentation by Dale Lesinski, vice president of DiVal Safety Equipment. His presentation, “Safe 4 the Right Reasons,” will show attendees how delivering a personal reason to adopt safe behaviors is essential to achieving desirable outcomes. Making safety and health personal, and appealing to human nature – along with positive messages – lead to safe and healthy behaviors that are sustainable, according to Lesinski. 

Lesinski will also conduct a breakout session focusing on the keys to building a successful safety culture, including employee engagement, sustainability, safety messaging, emotional intelligence, and organizational safety structure.

The Cascade Occupational Safety and Health Conference also features a special networking event at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3. The event involves the Cascade Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals, Women in Safety Excellence, and the Lane County Human Resource Association. It will provide attendees an opportunity to meet safety and health professionals in the region and to learn about the organizations. Light refreshments will be served. Those interested may RSVP to Leigh Manning, leiman@saif.com, by Saturday, Feb. 28. Attendees will receive an email confirmation before the event.  

The conference, which includes awards, exhibits, and lunch, offers a variety of workplace safety and health topics. They include:

• I’m on the Safety Committee, Now What?
• Oregon’s Best-Kept Secret: Unlocking the Employer-at-Injury and Preferred Worker Programs
• Fall Protection: Formal Equipment Inspections
• Make the Unseen Seen: Managing Psychosocial Risks at Work
• Is It Getting Hot in Here? Oregon OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention Rule Requirements
• Is That Confined Space Permit Required? Yes or No?
• Foundation of Trust
• What to Expect from an Oregon OSHA Inspection
• Behavioral Health Emergency and Disaster Management
• Confined Space: Elements of an Effective Program

Registration for the two-day event is $295. Tuesday-only attendance is $150. Wednesday-only attendance is $150. Register now: safetyseries.cventevents.com/cascade26. For more information about Oregon OSHA safety and health conferences, go online, send an email to egon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov“>oregon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov, or call 503-947-7411.

### About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

The 2026 Mayor’s Art Show is on Display at the Hult Center

The 2026 Mayor’s Art Show is on display at the Hult Center for the Performing Arts in Eugene through February 22, featuring over 50 local artists in the Maurie Jacobs Community Room, main lobby, and upper balcony. The exhibition, celebrating local creativity, is free to the public and open Tuesday-Friday 12-5 p.m. and Saturday 12-3 p.m.

For 2026, MAS will be on display in three locations within the Hult Center for the Performing Arts: the lower level (Maurie Jacobs Community room), the main lobby and the upper balcony. Artwork was selected by a committee of artists and arts professionals and curated to highlight the creativity and accomplishments of artists who enrich our community through visual arts every day.

• Location: Hult Center for the Performing Arts, Eugene, OR.
• Dates: January 6 – February 22, 2026.
• Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 12-5 p.m.; Saturday, 12-3 p.m..
• Highlights: Features 50+ local artists, with selections from the Maude Kerns Art Center’s Teen Mayor’s Art Show.
• Action: Visitors can vote for the People’s Choice Award. 

Police Seek Leads After Man Found Dead in Cottage Grove

UPDATE @ 1/21/2026 4:21pm: The victim in the shooting death from yesterday has been identified as Eusebio Pablo Pablo age 50 of Cottage Grove. The death is being investigated as a homicide. There is no new suspect information to share at this time. There is no further information available at this time.

On January 20, 2026 at about 5:30 AM officers with the Cottage Grove Police Department responded to a report of a male who was found on the ground, unconscious and bleeding in the 1500 Block of HWY 99 in Cottage Grove.

When officers arrived, they found an adult male with an apparent gunshot wound. Officers attempted CPR but the male was pronounced deceased at the scene after medics arrived.

Witnesses in the area reported hearing gunshots and seeing an unknown person wearing dark clothing running from the area. No suspects have been identified or located at this time.

The name of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. This is an active investigation and the Cottage Grove Police Department is being assisted by the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and the Lane County District Attorney’s Office. If anyone has any information about this investigation, they are asked to call the Cottage Grove Police Department at 541-942-9145 ext. 1.

Love is in the air this February – Lane County Clerk’s Office performing Valentine’s Day marriage ceremonies

The Lane County Clerk’s Office will help couples tie the knot or renew their vows on Valentine’s Day this year.

“What better day to marry your sweetheart than on Valentine’s Day?” said Lane County Clerk Tommy Gong. “All of us at the Clerk’s Office are excited to be able to offer couples the opportunity to schedule marriage ceremonies on the holiday this year.”

There are 32 slots available to schedule on a first come, first served basis. Ceremonies will be conducted in 30-minute intervals from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 14, at the County Clerk’s Office at 125 E. 8^th Avenue, Eugene.

Four Clerk’s Office employees will officiate the marriages.

To schedule a ceremony, couples must first obtain a valid marriage license from the Clerk’s Office (125 E. 8^th Avenue, Eugene). To obtain a marriage license, couples fill out the online Marriage License Application and then must visit the Clerk’s Office at least three days before the ceremony to complete the license process. Couples already married may consider renewing their vows on Valentine’s Day too; no new marriage license required.

The marriage license fee is $60 and a marriage officiated by the County Clerk is $117. Additional details, including license requirements and scheduling information, can be found on the Lane County Clerk’s website.

By Name List will be Utilized in 2026 for Homeless Count

The 2026 Lane County Point in Time Count (PIT) will not be conducted this year. The practice of doing a Point in Time count began in 2005, with an annual requirement for conducting a sheltered count, and a biennial requirement for conducting an unsheltered count. At that time the count was the most reliable way of tracking trends related to homelessness and the Poverty and Homelessness Board chose to do the count annually.  Thanks to technological and process innovations, the Lane County Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) system and its By Name List, has become a much more accurate, reliable and dynamic way to track trends on a monthly and yearly basis.

Over 30 agencies and 140 different programs enter data into the HMIS system on a daily basis. This equates to high system coverage and data quality. In fact, the OR-500 CoC has been primarily utilizing a modified version of the HBNL to conduct the PIT count since 2021. The only “street count” that has occurred since that time, with HUD’s authorization, is within targeted areas and completed by trained street outreach workers in order to identify those least likely to be included in the HMIS. In the past several counts, fewer than 130 people on average have been added to the primary count completed through HMIS. Community members are encouraged to review the By Name List Tableau pages to learn more about homelessness in Lane County.  

Full unsheltered PIT Counts are required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on a every other year basis and are not a requirement of the State of Oregon. As Lane County conducted an unsheltered count in calendar year 2025, there is no requirement for Lane County to conduct an unsheltered PIT Count in 2026.

The sheltered count is required by HUD and is derived solely from HMIS and made up of data entered daily by local shelter and transitional housing programs. Lane County will submit the sheltered count as required. A 2027 unsheltered PIT Count is expected to occur. To learn more about the shelter beds and other programs in Lane County visit the Homeless Response System Inventory Tableau pages.  

Lane County recruiting for task force that will develop new land banking program for housing production

A new seven-member task force will be responsible for creating the priorities and goals, measures of success, reporting standards, and other requirements for Lane County’s new housing land banking program.

“We desperately need housing in Lane County,” said Lane County Housing Production Manager Eric Mongan. “While Lane County Government doesn’t directly develop real estate, we can and should have a role in identifying buildable land that can be purchased and incentivized for housing development.”

The land banking program was established in 2025 by the Board of County Commissioners as part of its ongoing work to support affordable housing development. Ultimately, it will identify properties with housing development potential, work through the land use process, and then sell shovel-ready properties to affordable housing developers to increase housing density and availability. Offering ready-to-build properties that have cleared the land use process reduces the risk of delays for affordable housing developers – making building more attractive – and allows for a more efficient construction timeline.

The task force will create the framework for the program, which will then be adopted by the Board of County Commissioners. The program is funded with $2 million in Oregon Video Lottery funding.

Letters of interest must be submitted by February 9, 2026. The Board of County Commissioners will appoint five of the task force members in early March with the County Administrator selecting the remaining two members. The task force will begin meeting in March and is expected to hold between six and eight one-hour meetings over the course of several months. – More information and application materials are available at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/HousingTaskForce.

NW Natural has released a multi language notice that will also go to every customer regarding how to best identify a NW Natural Utility Worker when they come to your home or are nearby.

There has been reports of ICE agents disguising as utility workers to lure people out of their homes. Please stay aware.

“We are aware of reports of individuals impersonating utility workers in order to gain access to residents. Please note:

Our workers who show up at your home should either be wearing a uniform and a utility badge or wearing a badge that says “CONTRACTOR.” Their vehicles should be similarly marked with a NW Natural company logo and/or “CONTRACTOR.”

If someone comes to your house and asks for access to your home or for you to come outside:

• Our employees will never ask for immediate access to customers’ homes. They often will go to a back or side yard to access a meter.

• In most situations, if there is a reason a NW Natural employee would need to go inside a customer’s home (such as a safety check or inspection), they would have set this up with the customer in advance.

If you want to verify if someone at your home is a NW Natural employee or contractor, you can call our customer service line at 503-226-4211 or 800-422-4012. If you suspect an imposter, call 9-1-1 immediately.” https://www.nwnatural.com/…/2025-utility-and-contactor…

Survey asking residents how they protect themselves, their homes, and community from wildfire

Lane County Emergency Management is asking people to take a short survey to help local agencies better understand how households and communities are taking action at the household level to reduce wildfire risk. The survey is intended to help Lane County identify what actions people are taking in their community as well as the barriers that prevent households from acting. The survey is available through January 30, 2026.

The survey is available in English and Spanish:

• Take the Wildfire Risk Reduction Survey in English
• Completa la encuesta sobre reducción del riesgo de incendios forestales en español

The QR codes attached can also be used to access the survey in English and Spanish.

The survey is part of Lane County’s work with the Oregon Department of Forestry and other partners to update the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). The plan was last updated in 2020.

A successful CWPP provides a community with a set of goals, actions and resources specifically designed to address the threat of wildfire. These goals, actions and resources can help:

• enhance public safety
• improve economic resiliency through the identification and protection of critical infrastructure and businesses at risk
• restore and protect ecosystem health
• raise public awareness about wildfire risks
• inform landowners and property owners of their shared responsibility in wildfire protection
• build new partnerships between local, state, and federal firefighting agencies, community organizations, and businesses

An up-to-date CWPP is also required before local communities can receive funding for hazard mitigation and recovery work through the National Fire Plan, FEMA mitigation grants and other resources. Please consider taking 15–20 minutes to weigh in and complete the survey!

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

Too many seniors in Lane County spend their days in silence – without food, warmth, or a friendly face. You can change that and make a difference in our community.

Senior & Disability Services is urging residents to support the Senior Meals Program, which includes Meals on Wheels, by volunteering or donating. Volunteers play a crucial role in delivering meals, providing companionship, and conducting safety checks for homebound seniors.

“We are needing volunteers to step up across the county and help us deliver meals, help us package meals in order to meet the growing demand of Meals on Wheels across our community,” said Marisa Andrews, community program manager, Lane County Senior and Disability Services.

The organization is also participating in a national campaign by Meals on Wheels America to highlight senior isolation, inspired by the carol “Silent Night.” This campaign emphasizes the importance of community support, especially as demand for services rises amid federal funding cuts. See REEL: https://www.facebook.com/reel/707071019133999

Community members are encouraged to volunteer for Meals on Wheels or Café 60, ensuring these vital services continue. For those unable to volunteer, donations to the Senior Meals Program can help ensure no senior is left hungry or alone this season. Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LCOGSeniorAndDisabilityServices

Join the Senior Meals Program as a volunteer and help ensure no senior is left hungry or alone. Every meal delivered is more than food – it’s a lifeline. Sign up to volunteer today: https://bit.ly/3I8T7eP

Update on Lane County PacificSource,Trillium and OHP

Effective February 1, 2026, PacificSource Community Solutions is no longer a Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) in Lane County, with roughly 90,000 Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members transitioning to Trillium Community Health Plan. This change, caused by contract negotiations regarding reimbursement rates, aims to ensure continuous coverage, with most members automatically moving to Trillium. Key Updates and Actions for Members

• Transition to Trillium: Most OHP members, including those with Medicare (“dual eligible”), are moving to Trillium, which will become the primary CCO in the area.
• No Loss of Coverage: OHP benefits remain the same, and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is ensuring uninterrupted coverage.
• New Member ID Cards: Members will receive new Trillium ID cards before the February 1, 2026, transition.
• Provider Continuity (Transition of Care): Trillium is allowing temporary, continued access to current PacificSource providers for 30 days (physical/dental) to 60/90 days (behavioral/complex care).
• Exceptions: Some members, such as American Indian/Alaska Native, may move to OHP Open Card (fee-for-service) instead of Trillium, with the option to choose to move to Trillium. 

Important Information for Providers

• Transition of Care Period: Trillium is encouraging providers to continue treating members during the transition, allowing for 30, 60, or 90 days of care, depending on the service type and member needs.
• Formulary and Prescriptions: Trillium is working with providers to transition prescriptions to its formulary, allowing 30 days for switches.
• Waitlist/Network Concerns: While some providers have reported issues with the onboarding process, Trillium has indicated they have the capacity to handle the influx of new members. 

For the latest, direct information, members and providers should monitor updates from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) website and Trillium Community Health Plan’s dedicated transition page. 

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.

The many ways trees protect human health will be the focus of the 2026 Oregon Urban and Community Forestry Conference to be held June 4 in Eugene at Venue 252.

Registration for the conference—We Thrive When Trees Thrive—is now open at https://www.oregoncommunitytrees.org/2026-conference

This annual conference is put on by the non-profit organization Oregon Community Trees in partnership with the Oregon Department of Forestry and USDA Forest Service. It is open to anyone interested in urban tree issues and their impact on people and communities.

Keynote speaker will be Geoffrey Donovan, a natural resource economist with the private consultancy firm Ash and Elm Consulting, LLC. When he was a researcher based at the USDA Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station, Donovan published a ground-breaking study that found each tree planted in Portland by the non-profit Friends of Trees was associated with significant reductions in non-accidental and cardiovascular human deaths. Donovan had access to years’ worth of tree planting data from Friends of Trees. Specifically, he used the planting data from the nearly 50,000 trees that organization had planted in Portland neighborhoods since 1990. Donovan was able to rule out other possible explanations for the lower death rate like race, education, and income, by using the statistical models using data from the American Community Survey. The findings were published in December 2022 in the journal Environmental International.

Continuing education credits will be available for conference attendees.

Opportunities to be a speaker, panelist or poster presenter are open until Jan. 31. Visitwww.oregoncommunitytrees.org/2026-conference to apply.

Early-bird registration pricing remains $150. Students can register for $80. Ticket includes entry, lunch, snacks, and networking social hour following the conference. Scholarships are available for those with an expressed financial need.

About Oregon Community Trees

The mission of this non-profit, Oregon-based organization is to promote healthy urban and community forests through leadership, education, awareness and advocacy. OCT serves as the advisory committee to the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Program.

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

RAVEN-Radical Assistance — They need an indoor space for the winter! And have a GoFund Me to Help

Hi Friends, the good people at RAVEN are diligently trying to find some indoor space to use for the winter. We would love to offer some respite from the weather along with the other basic needs that we are providing. Please help us find some under utilized space, preferably close to the downtown core, that we can use to take care of our neighbors in need. Any and all ideas are welcome! We appreciate all of your donations. We are always in need of operational funds, clothing, blankets & camping gear.

Any ideas appreciated for Indoor Space! They are providing food, basic need supplies and human connection to our neighbors in need. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572229470271

GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-raven-continue-services-for-vulnerable-neighbors?attribution_id=sl:ebb2169e-6901-4025-a221-274235ce05c0&lang=en_US&ts=1760736364&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

Every story helps us advocate for food access and fight hunger in our community.

We’re receiving lots of questions about SNAP, and many offers of help from our incredible community. This post from Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) provides some helpful information about the potential delays to SNAP benefits. If you are a SNAP recipient with questions about your benefits, ODHS is your go-to. Their website is at https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/default.aspx

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.

TransPonder — TransPonder is excited to be expanding!

We will be moving some of our programs and services to the new home of The Lavender Network, and our offices will be closed from November 3-7 to allow us time to do that. Staff will still be monitoring phones and emails and our Food Program will continue uninterrupted.

At our new Willamette location (1590 Willamette St.), you will find our Behavioral Health Program, the Legal ID Change Program, Resource Navigation, Sylvia’s Closet, and our free Lending Library.

We will also continue to have offices at our Maxwell location (440 Maxwell Rd.) which will house our Food Program, the Youth Empowerment Project, our Job Skill Program, administrative offices, and our community events.

We appreciate your patience as we embark on this new stage for TransPonder! 

Check out the upcoming events, clubs, classes, groups, and gatherings in this week’s newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/…/transponder-happenings-sept14-sept20

Waste To Taste – 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 hgiene 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

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. 

Colder overnight temperatures this week prompt home heating fire safety reminder from Oregon State Fire Marshall

With below freezing overnight temperatures and recent home fires related to heating, the Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind Oregonians about the importance of fire safety. Since January 1, the agency has investigated 10 home fires across the state from various causes.

“These fires come as a tragic reminder of the importance of home heating fire safety, the second leading cause of home fires every year in Oregon,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Following fire safety guidance and testing smoke alarms regularly are important steps every Oregonian can take this winter.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers these tips:

• Keep things that burn, like paper, curtains, bedding, or furniture, at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.
• Always plug space and portable heaters directly into a wall outlet and never into an extension cord or power strip.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of heating equipment fires (46%) occurred in the three-month period from December through February. In the first two weeks of 2026, three fire-related deaths were reported to the Oregon State Fire Marshal. – For more home heating safety tips, visit the OSFM’s website.

Cascades Red Cross Deploys Disaster Relief Volunteers to aid in Winter Storm Response

The American Red Cross is providing shelter to more than 4,000 people in 210 facilities spanning from Texas and Louisiana to Tennessee and Virginia, in response to the blizzard conditions and extreme freezing temperatures affecting much of the country.

The Red Cross Cascades Region (OR and SW WA) has deployed 7 volunteers and 4 more are on standby if they are needed.

These volunteers will be helping with things like sheltering, feeding and distributing emergency supplies.

This extreme weather has also forced the cancellation of hundreds of blood drives in the affected areas, leaving 10,000 units uncollected, intensifying our blood shortage.

Read more about that HERE: https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2026/severe-winter-weather-intensifying-severe-blood-shortage–more-t.html

How can people in Oregon and SW Washington help? Make an appointment to donate blood at https://www.redcrossblood.org/ and help keep the supply strong for hospitals and patients.

Original blood shortage release:

Severe blood shortage: Red Cross blood supply drops 35%

Donors urged to make an appointment to give blood and platelets amid growing flu, winter weather impact

[PORTLAND, OR, Jan. 20, 2026] —

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage as requests from hospitals exceed the available supply of blood, leading to about a 35% drawdown of blood products in the past month. Individuals are urged to give now so patients don’t face delays in lifesaving care. The shortage is especially serious for platelets, types O, A negative and B negative blood.

High flu activity in nearly every state may be sidelining donors, slowing efforts to rebuild the Red Cross national blood supply. At the same time, hospitals already feeling the strain of the worst flu season in nearly 20 years are now also forced to triage critical blood products. Without immediate action, patients who count on transfusions — including trauma victims, mothers in childbirth and people with sickle cell disease or cancer — face serious risk. 

There’s no time to wait — book an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

All who come to give Jan. 26-Feb. 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.

Weather disrupts vital donations

About 400 blood drives were impacted due to extreme winter weather last month alone — more than three times the number of blood drives impacted during the same time the previous year. As a result, thousands of blood donations have gone uncollected. With intense winter weather and freezing temperatures expected across much of the country in the coming weeks, more blood drives could potentially be delayed or canceled at a time when every unit of blood could be the difference for doctors facing difficult choices about which patients receive blood transfusions and who will need to wait.

“Winter always puts pressure on the blood supply, and this year widespread flu and rough weather are making it even tougher,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of Red Cross donor services. “If you’re able, now’s a great time to make and keep blood donation appointments, during National Blood Donor Month. Every donation can be a lifeline for a patient who isn’t able to hold off on critical care.”

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, servicing 65 hospitals in the Pacific Northwest; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

OREGON IN TOP 10 OF AMERICA’S MOST ARTS-VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
Oregon Arts Commission

SMU DataArts Unveils Top 100: Oregon’s Creative Economy Shines on National Stage

Oregon has once again secured its place as a national cultural powerhouse, ranking No. 10 in the 10th annual SMU DataArts Arts Vibrancy Index. This marks the third consecutive year Oregon has appeared in the top 10, underscoring a sustained commitment to the arts and culture that spans from our bustling metro centers to our historic rural hubs.

From the world-class stage of the Oregon Symphony in Portland and the Hult Center in Eugene to the murals and bronze trails of Pendleton and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, our vibrancy comes from a unique blend of urban innovation and deep-rooted rural traditions statewide.

“Oregon’s creative landscape has long drawn people to live, work and create here,” said Amy Lewin, director of the Oregon Arts Commission and the Oregon Cultural Trust. “This recognition belongs to Oregonians who fuel this vibrancy, leveraging resources and innovation to strengthen arts and culture in every corner of the state. Their creativity shapes the roadmap for a thriving future.”

While the index traditionally looks at data-driven metrics like supply, demand and public investment, for Oregonians, this ranking reflects a lived reality: a state where creativity is woven into the landscape. Oregonians don’t just consume art and culture; they live it.

To mark its 10th anniversary, SMU DataArts expanded its list to 100 communities, analyzing more than 900 areas nationwide. The index measures 13 unique factors, including the number of independent artists, total nonprofit arts and culture dollars and government support.

“Oregon’s ranking is a testament to the fact that arts vibrancy isn’t accidental,” said Dr. Jennifer Benoit-Bryan, executive director of SMU DataArts. “It is built through long-term commitment to funding, public investment in infrastructure, and a culture that values creativity as essential to quality of life.”

For more information on the Arts Vibrancy Index and to explore the data for specific Oregon communities, please visit https://culturaldata.org/arts-vibrancy-2025.   

About the Oregon Arts Commission — The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (formerly the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon Legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission’s expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at: artscommission.oregon.gov.

About SMU DataArts — SMU DataArts, the National Center for Arts Research, is a project of the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University. The mission of SMU DataArts is to provide the evidence-based insights needed to collectively build strong, vibrant and equitable arts communities. Its research efforts range from academic papers published in leading journals, applied research undertaken with community partners, and actionable insights shared directly with arts practitioners. Its programs provide business intelligence tools and resources to help arts leaders leverage data to answer critical management questions and connect research analyses to their own work.

The Oregon Department of Human Services, along with the Oregon Health Authority, has indicated a requirement for an additional $340 million in state funding and 475 more personnel by June 2027.

This is necessary to meet the new obligations imposed by the extensive 2025 tax and budget-cutting legislation proposed by Republicans. The primary reason for this need is the requirement for more personnel to enforce complex work requirements for Oregonians aged 18 to 64 who receive federal food assistance, known as SNAP, or coverage through the Oregon Health Plan.

This information comes from Dave Baden, the deputy director of the state human services agency, among others. Furthermore, Oregon must significantly enhance its eligibility accuracy rates to prevent incurring a federal penalty of nearly half a billion dollars in the 2027-29 period, along with the possibility of additional substantial penalties thereafter.

Officials have also warned that failing to upgrade its computer systems to comply with new eligibility regulations could result in Oregon violating federal Medicaid timelines and requirements.

Additionally, the federal legislation mandates that Oregon absorb $54 million in program administration costs that the federal government had previously agreed to cover. Moreover, the state is required to secure $105 million to fully leverage the Medicaid reimbursement it anticipates for the current two-year state budget, as stated by legislative budget specialists.

OHSU Hospital had consented to provide this funding to the state, expecting to receive a greater amount in return. However, the bill crafted by the Trump administration, known as H.R. 1, has restricted the amount Oregon can reimburse OHSU.

Governor Kotek is allocating 25 million dollars to hospitals in Oregon to ensure the availability of maternity care, federal money that was given to Oregon for the state’s General Fund.

Kotek has instructed that these funds be drawn from the state’s General Fund. Fifteen million dollars will be designated to support the stabilization of maternity departments in rural hospitals. Ten million dollars will be allocated to larger hospitals.

This initiative arises as several hospitals have had to shut down their maternity departments due to insufficient resources.

Candle Vigil to Remember and Honor Alex Pretti in Ashland Oregon Singing America the Beautiful.

facebook.com/reel/1433873148072526/?s=single_unit

ONA Statement on the Shooting of Alex Pretti, an ICU Nurse For Veterans
Oregon Nurses Assn. 

— The Oregon Nurses Association is outraged, heartbroken, and profoundly disturbed by the fatal shooting of 37-year-old registered nurse Alex Jeffrey Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026. Alex was an intensive care unit nurse and union member at the VA hospital who dedicated his life to caring for military veterans and their families. A life devoted to healing was cut short — gunned down in the streets by federal agents while speaking out.

Our deepest condolences go out to Alex’s family, his patients, his colleagues, and the people of Minneapolis as they grieve this senseless and devastating loss.

A nurse’s job is to care for their patients — but they are also ethically bound to speak out in the face of injustice and human rights violations. Provision 8.2 of the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics for Nurses is clear: “Where there are human rights violations, nurses ought to and must stand up for those rights and demand accountability.” That is exactly what Alex was doing.

No one should be targeted by federal agents for speaking out. No nurse should be killed for standing up for human rights.

ONA members in Oregon are reporting growing fear and distress as they encounter federal agents in healthcare settings, particularly at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. The killing of a nurse is intensifying these fears and could create unsafe conditions for patients, their families, and frontline caregivers alike. Healthcare settings must be places of care, not sites of intimidation or terror.

The Oregon Nurses Association stands in unequivocal solidarity with immigrant communities, with nurses, and with all frontline healthcare professionals across the country who are demanding accountability and an independent investigation. Federal enforcement tactics that endanger lives and traumatize communities have no place in a just society.

We call on all major healthcare systems in Oregon to stand up for nurses, publicly denounce this killing, and to hold ICE and similar federal agents accountable in healthcare settings.

A nurse who spent his life caring for veterans was killed by his own government for speaking out. He deserves justice.

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.

ONA Statement on the Detainment of a Family at Adventist Hospital
Oregon Nurses Assn.

Reports by The Oregonian on January 23 and Noticias Noroeste that a family was detained by ICE while seeking medical care for their 7-year-old child at Adventist Health in Portland are alarming, chilling, and deeply shameful. No parent should ever be forced to weigh their child’s health against the risk of detention. No child should be subjected to this level of fear. Every child deserves access to quality and timely healthcare.  

Provision 8.2 of the Nurses Code of Ethics is clear: “Where there are human rights violations, nurses ought to and must stand up for those rights and demand accountability.” That is why we are speaking out. 

Detaining a family while they seek medical care for a child is unconscionable and does not just violate the ethical obligations of frontline caregivers; it violates the fundamental ethical obligation of healthcare institutions.  

ONA members—nurses and frontline caregivers across Oregon—have been warning for months about the devastating consequences of ICE enforcement occurring in or near hospitals. Hospitals must be places of healing, safety, and trust. When that trust is broken, families delay care or avoid it altogether, turning preventable and treatable conditions into life-threatening emergencies. For children, the consequences of delayed or denied care are especially severe. 

When law enforcement actions intrude into medical spaces, patient care is compromised—and in this case, a child’s well-being was placed at risk. This unjustified action raises urgent and disturbing questions that demand answers. Did the child ever receive the healthcare they needed? What capacity does ICE have to ensure the medical stability of a child whose parents sought emergency care in a hospital setting? Who assumed responsibility for the child’s health and safety once the family was detained, and under what clinical standards? These are not abstract concerns; they are matters of life, health, and basic human dignity. 

ONA calls on Oregon’s healthcare executives, hospital systems, and elected officials at every level to forcefully put an end to this heinous practice and to take immediate action to ensure that hospitals remain safe spaces for all families, without exception. ONA will continue to stand with immigrant communities, our patients, our families, and caregivers to demand accountability and protect access to care for all. 

###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.

Oregon, IRS begin processing e-filed returns; First state refunds expected February 17

Salem, OR—As Oregon and the IRS begin processing electronically-filed tax year 2025 returns today, the Department of Revenue expects the first Oregon taxpayers to receive their refunds—including their share of the state’s $1.41 billion kicker—as soon as February 17.

The department announced earlier this month that taxpayers who choose to file paper returns face a significantly longer wait. For paper filed returns, refunds will not start being issued until early April.

To help taxpayers avoid missteps that could further delay their refund, the department is opening 2026 tax season with a series of best practices suggestions.

File a return to claim your kicker

The kicker is a refundable credit that will either increase a taxpayer’s Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe. It is not sent to taxpayers separately as a check.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. The credit is a percentage of Oregon personal income tax liability for the 2024 tax year.

Personal income taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using the “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online. To use the calculator, taxpayers will need to enter their name, Social Security Number, and filing status for 2024 and 2025.

File electronically, request direct deposit

On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper returns will experience a significantly longer wait in 2026 due to processing delays.

In the closing months of 2025, the IRS was late providing necessary tax forms and information to the Oregon Department of Revenue. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns can’t begin until the end of March.

 Taxpayers should file just once unless they need to make a change to their return. They should choose to either file electronically or by paper. Doing both will delay processing of their return.

Gather all tax records before filing

In a kicker year, taxpayers can be in a hurry to file their return so they can get their refund as soon as possible. The department warns taxpayers not to get in too much of a hurry. They should make sure they have all necessary records—including Form W-2s from their employers and Form 1099s reporting other income—needed to file a complete and accurate tax return to avoid errors.

Getting in a hurry can cause taxpayers to file before they have all the information necessary to report all of their income. If income reported on a return doesn’t match the income reported by employers, the return, and any corresponding refund, will be delayed.

Revenue Online

Revenue Online is the state’s internet tax portal and is the best way to communicate with the department.

Taxpayers with a Revenue Online account should make sure their information is current before they file. They should check their username, password, and address; and verify any estimated tax payments they’ve made.

Those who don’t have a Revenue Online account can create one. They can simply go to Revenue Online, click “Sign Up” in the box at the top right and follow the prompts.

Download Form 1099-G

The department reminds taxpayers that it no longer mails Form 1099-G to taxpayers. The form reports the amount of refunds, credits, or other offsets of personal income, statewide transit individual tax, TriMet transit self-employment tax, or Lane transit self-employment tax paid during the previous year.

Only those who itemized deductions on their tax year 2024 federal income tax return will need a Form 1099-G to file their tax year 2025 return. Those taxpayers can view and download their Form 1099-G through Revenue Online.

Taxpayers who received unemployment insurance or Paid Leave Oregon benefits in 2025 will receive a separate 1099-G by January 31 from the Oregon Employment Department.

Govenor Tina Kotek picks Nevada state forester as first woman to lead Oregon Forestry Department

Kacey KC would be the first permanent, female leader of the Oregon Department of Forestry in its 115-year history

After a year-long search, Gov. Tina Kotek has chosen Nevada’s state forester to take the helm of the Oregon Department of Forestry.

Kacey KC would be the first woman to permanently hold the director’s position in the 115-year-old agency’s history. The Oregon State Senate would need to confirm her appointment during the upcoming legislative session before she could take office on March 1.

KC, from Nevada, most recently spent eight years as Nevada’s State Forester Firewarden and three years as president of the National Association of State Foresters.

“Kacey KC brings tenacity and a get-it-done style to her management approach and knows how to build strong partnerships across all levels of government to tackle complex challenges,” Kotek said in a statement.

It’s also the first time Kotek has had the authority to choose the state forester, rather than leaving the decision to the governor-appointed Board of Forestry, following the passage of Senate Bill 1051 during the summer.

Leading up to the change in hiring authority in 2025, the Oregon Department of Forestry had been roiled by controversies in 2024, including going to the Legislature for emergency money to cover its wildfire season bills, executive investigations and firings over workplace misconduct, as reported by The Oregonian/OregonLive. Former director Cal Mukumoto resigned early last year at the urging of Kotek and the agency has been run by interim director Kate Skinner, who was previously lead forester in the Tillamook district.

The Oregon state forester reports to the governor and the forestry board, and oversees the management and protection of 745,000 acres of forestland owned by the state of Oregon, as well as wildfire protection for 16 million acres of forestland in the state. All of this requires negotiating the desires of environmentalists, logging companies, tribes and private property owners.

They also oversee a biennial budget of more than $570 million and roughly 1,400 employees. If confirmed, KC would earn $19,700 per month for the first six months on the job, after which her salary would increase to $21,069 per month, or roughly $252,000 per year.

KC holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry from the University of Montana and is an alumna of the Peace Corps, where she volunteered for two years on community forestry projects in Nepal. Afterward, she returned to her home state to work for the Nevada Division of Forestry, then spent 10 years working on wildfire fuels reduction programs at the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, including as program manager of the state’s Sagebrush Ecosystem Program.

She returned to the forestry division as a deputy administrator of wildfire management in 2015, and in 2018 Nevada’s governor appointed her as state forester firewarden.

In 2021, she was appointed by Congress to a national Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission to update the nation’s wildfire protection systems, and in 2023 her peers elected her president of the National Association of State Foresters.

“I am extremely excited for the opportunity to join the Oregon Department of Forestry team,” KC said in a statement. “While I am not from Oregon, my experience at both the national and state level equips me to deepen key relationships while leading and supporting the strong work and mission of the Department.” (SOURCE)

Oregon Gas Prices Still Much Higher Than The Nation’s

The decrease in gas prices is decelerating. According to Triple-A, the rise in crude oil prices is responsible for this trend.

Nationwide, the average cost for a gallon of gas remained stable last week at $2.82 a gallon for regular gas, a 5-year low thanks to the Trump Admistration.  But in Oregon, thanks to new tax increases from Gov. Tina Kotek, the average price of regular is $3.33 a gallon.

Oregon Health Authority seeks new members for Oversight and Accountability Council

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

• An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy
• A representative of a coordinated care organization

To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 pm, January 30, 2026.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by Feb 13, 2026.

For questions or more information, email HRN@OHA.oregon.gov” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;”>BHRN@OHA.oregon.gov or contact Karli Moon at li.moon@oha.oregon.gov” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;”>Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

For over 30 years the Yachats Lions Club has held an annual Crab Feed event in Yachats, Oregon. The annual trek to Yachats to eat Dungeness crab is a tradition for families and groups from across Oregon, Washington and beyond.

Our annual Yachats Lions Club Crab Feed is DINE-IN on Saturday, January 31, 2026! After selling out in 2025, the 2026 Crab Feed will now offer 4 seatings, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm at the Yachats Lions Hall and 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm at the Yachats Commons.

Meals purchased will consist of “All you can eat Dungeness crab“, fresh locally baked bread, coleslaw, baked beans, and soda for $50.

Crab Feed 2026 Tickets – All You Can Eat

The $50 per person meal tickets are available for sale online at https://yachatslionsclub.org/ You can select the seating and order as many meals as you like. For more information please send an email to YachatsLionsCrabFeed@gmail.com.

Lion David O’Kelley, coordinator of the popular Crab Feed, says “We are very pleased to be offering the fund-raiser as we have done for so many years.” We get great support from the community and local businesses in Yachats, Waldport and Newport. South Beach Fish Market cooks and cleans the best tasting  local crab you have ever eaten. 

With our motto of “WE SERVE” among the many services we provide eyeglasses and exams, hearing aids and exams, eye screening in Lincoln County schools, pancake breakfasts, crab feed, lunch bunch, speaker series, peace poster and flag day events in our schools, and  ommunity use of our clubhouse. Through community donations to the Yachats Lions Thrift Store our sales allow us to donate to local, student scholarships, food pantries, school programs, projects, and upkeep of the clubhouse.

In addition, donations are made to Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing as well as Lions Club International Foundation.  Lions Club International is the world’s largest service club organization with a network of 1.4 million men and women in more than 200 countries and geographical locations. We serve where we live, as well as globally, and we have fun doing it. — The proceeds for this fund-raising event are for Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation.

Calling all artists: BLM seeks Artists-in-Residence at Rogue River Ranch, Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument during Freedom 250

The Bureau of Land Management is looking for two Artists-in-Residence: one at the historic Rogue River Ranch National Historic Site and another at the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument.

The selected artists will have the unique opportunity to capture these public lands during a milestone year as the Nation marks its 250th birthday and the BLM celebrates its 80th anniversary.  The artists will receive one- to two-week residencies during the summer to create original work while immersed in some of Oregon’s most remarkable environments.

One artist and one alternate will be selected for each residency based on the following criteria: entry materials, residency proposal, professionalism, and creative vision. Applications must be submitted by Feb. 28. As part of the 2026 program, selected artists will also be part of the Freedom 250 celebration, paying tribute to the historic sites and special lands that have contributed to the Nation’s heritage.

“Artists provide a captivating lens through which we can explore our connection to public lands,” said Joel Brumm, Assistant Monument Manager. “Their work provides a unique perspective on these remarkable landscapes, highlighting our mission and role in public land management as we celebrate our 80th anniversary.”

Rogue River Ranch National Historic Site – The Rogue River Ranch residency will take place between June and August 2026 in a breathtaking setting deep in the Rogue Wild and Scenic River Corridor. The remote outpost is a two-hour drive or a 22-mile river trip from Grave Creek Boat Ramp. The selected artist will reside in the historic house.

Following their residency, the artist will share their vision in a public presentation at the Grants Pass Museum of Art on Oct. 2. Their work will be displayed at the museum for one month and then returned to the artist. The BLM is requesting digital copies of the artwork to promote the Artist-in-Residence program and public lands. The artist retains a non-exclusive use copyright.

In summer 2025, Artist Alisha Whitman created watercolors during her residency. She shared her experience with the BLM.

Artists of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and there is no preference given to any style or medium.

Interested artists can learn more information and find an application at the Artist-in-Residence website, by e-mailing Tony Saunders at asaunders@blm.gov, or by calling 541-471-6642.

Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument – The Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument residency will take place in June 2026. The selected artist will be based at a travel trailer at Hyatt Lake Campground while exploring the environment and creating their art. The BLM is seeking visual artists for this residency.

Since 2017, the Artist-in-Residence program has allowed numerous artists to transform the monument’s natural and cultural resources into visual art, objects, and performances.

Last year’s Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument Artist-in-Residence was Paul Atkinson, a gifted photographer who spent his time studying and photographing the monument’s unique landscapes.

During their residency, the artist will share their experience and artistic vision in a public presentation. Following the residency, artists are asked to donate an original artwork piece, which they will retain the rights to.  

Interested artists can learn more information and find an application at the Artist-in-Residence website, by e-mailing John Duwe at jduwe@blm.gov, or by calling 541-618-2320.

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Raise Funds to Plant Trees in Oregon

Registration is open for the Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K

Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests.  You must register by April 1^st in order to get your shirts and medal before the event.

Participants can walk, run, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 18 and 26 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day).   Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. Last year, we had to close registration early due to higher than anticipated participation, so register as soon as possible.  If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15, or earlier if more participants sign up than we have available swag.

For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks.  Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration.  This year’s tree plantings will be placed in the Santiam Canyon.

Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.

As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its sixth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include fifteen other states. Together, all sixteen states will help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.

“We are thrilled to honor Bob Ross and continue our efforts to plant at least One Million Trees in Oregon.” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.  “To date, we have funded the planting of 850,000 trees.”

“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”

Participants can register at www.orparksforever.org. — For more information, contact Seth Miller at 503/966-1053 or seth@orparksforever.org

The Oregon Department of Revenue will open the application period in January 2026 for the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit.

Paying overtime to agricultural workers became a requirement of employers in Oregon as of January 1, 2023. In 2025, agricultural workers are paid overtime after they work 48 hours in one work week. If an employer paid overtime, they may qualify for a refundable personal or corporate income tax credit, regardless of the size of the business.

The tax credit for employers is a percentage of overtime premium pay paid as wages.

All applications must be submitted no later than February 2, 2026.

The 2025 filing period marks the third year since eligible employers have been able to apply for the tax credit.

Applications can only be made through the department’s Revenue Online website. Qualifying agricultural employers who have not applied for the tax credit previously need a Revenue Online account to apply during the application period. No paper applications will be accepted. We have published a new video to help customers with their Revenue Online applications.

DOR encourages employers to prepare in advance to ensure an easier and faster filing experience. DOR’s webpage provides guidance for how to apply, documentation you may need, program information, and frequently asked questions to help employers apply for the tax credit.

For general questions about the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit, email: Ag.Overtime@dor.oregon.gov.

Tax practitioners with other tax or customer account questions are encouraged to contact a dedicated practitioner specialist by email at prac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov, or by phone at 503-947-3541.

NW Natural Warms Up Winter with “Fireside Friends” Pet Photo Contest

Customers are invited to share photos of their pets for a chance to win a prize; NW Natural is also supporting The Pongo Fund

NW Natural is inviting customers to warm up this winter and celebrate their pets with the launch of the Fireside Friends Sweepstakes. The contest offers the chance to win a prize while also supporting a local charity.

Running now through February 1, 2026, the sweepstakes welcomes customers to share photos of their furry friends enjoying the warmth and comfort of a natural gas fireplace for the chance to win a $200 Chewy gift card.

NW Natural has also pledged a $1,000 donation to The Pongo Fund Pet Food Bank, which helps support people and their pets throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington.

How to Enter: NW Natural customers can enter the sweepstakes via social media in two simple steps:

1. Follow @nwnaturalgas on Instagram or Facebook. (Media can find some of the wonderful pet photos that have already been posted by customers on both platforms!)
2. Post a photo of their pet(s) cozying up by their natural gas fireplace and tag @nwnaturalgas or use the hashtag #nwnaturalgas.

The contest is open now and entries will be accepted until February 1, 2026. For full terms and conditions visit nwnatural.com/FiresideFriends

About NW Natural

NW Natural is a local distribution company that currently provides service to approximately 2 million people in more than 140 communities through approximately 806,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington with one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation. NW Natural owns and operates 21.6 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity in Oregon. It is the largest natural gas utility in Oregon and one of the state’s oldest companies.

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