Willamette Valley News, Monday 5/11 – Lane County Budget Meetings This Week, EPD Officer Resigns After Unacceptable Behavior & 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, May 11, 2026

Willamette Valley Weather

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

Lane County Government – Lane County Elections Livestream Running

 · Watch our Lane County Elections livestream

Nothing good on TV? We got you. Our Elections livestream up! You can watch on YouTube and see the Lane County Elections Office as it works to receive, process and count ballots. It’s part of our commitment to transparency in elections. The livestream will remain active through the certification of election results on June 25. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fyc69m_gGok

Lane County voters: remember to sign the return envelope and return your ballots early

Voters are urged to return their ballots as early as possible to ensure they are received at Lane County Elections by the 8:00 p.m. deadline on Tuesday, May 19.

In order to be counted, ballots must be received at Lane County Elections by:

• Regular mail. Ballots must be postmarked no later than May 19, 2026 and received no later than May 26, 2026 to be counted. USPS recommends putting a ballot in the mail seven days before the election or getting a manual hand-stamp postmark at the service counter of local post offices.
• A 24/7 County ballot drop box by 8:00 p.m. on May 19. Help save taxpayer dollars by avoiding the postage and using a drop box, managed directly by Lane County Elections.
• Lane County Elections. Ballots can be turned in by May 19, 2026 directly to the Lane County Elections Office during business hours (open until 8:00 p.m. on Election Day).

“In Oregon we have three great ways for voters to return ballots and have really focused on maximizing convenience and reducing barriers for voters,” said Lane County Clerk Tommy Gong. “As long as voters are aware of the ballot return deadlines, they can ensure their ballots are received in time to ensure their votes are counted.”

Lane County’s 21 ballot drop boxes will remain open until 8:00 pm on Election Day, May 19, 2026.  Drop boxes are open 24/7. A list of drop box locations is included with every ballot.

Voters can track the status of their mail ballot by visiting www.oregonvotes.gov/MyVote.

Ballot drop box locations can be found online at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/elections.  And also statewide here: https://sos.oregon.gov/voting/Pages/drop-box-locator.aspx

Voters must also remember to sign their ballot return envelopes before mailing or returning their completed ballot to Lane County Elections.

The signature is a security measure used to verify identity. Signatures are compared to those in the voter registration record. A ballot may only be counted if the signatures match.

If you forget to sign the envelope or your signature does not match, you will receive a notice from Lane County Elections advising you of the issue and how to fix or “cure” it. You have until the 21^st day after the election to cure your signature issue and have your ballot counted.

What can you do to ensure your signature matches?

1. Sign your natural signature. If you don’t usually sign with a middle initial don’t sign your ballot envelope with it.  Election workers are trained to look for specific characteristics within each signature. If you think your signature has changed significantly, contact Lane County Elections.
2. Don’t sign another person’s name. Even if someone gives you permission to sign, or you have power of attorney, it is against the law in Oregon to sign another person’s name on a return envelope. It’s forgery.
3. Request help if you have difficulty signing.  If it is difficult for you to sign, on either a temporary or permanent basis, you can complete a signature attestation form and return it to Lane County Elections.  Completing this step will allow you to use a signature stamp or other indicator that represents your signature.  
4. Correct a mistake if you accidentally sign your name on someone in your household’s envelope. If you and another person in your household sign each other’s return ballot envelopes, simply place a line through the incorrect signatures and sign the correct envelopes.  

Voters with questions can email elections@LaneCountyOR.gov or call 541-682-4234.

For voting information, go here: https://sos.oregon.gov/voting-elections/Pages/default.aspx

About the Lane County Elections Office: The Elections Office, located at 275 W. 10^th Avenue in Eugene, is responsible for conducting elections in Lane County.  The Elections Office manages voter registration, the processing of mail ballots, recruitment and training of election workers, and certification of elections.

Lane County Budget Meetings This Week

The proposed Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget for Lane County is balanced in a way that preserves critical services and makes the most of the limited financial resources available.

“Sixty percent of Lane County’s budget has historically come from state or federal funding sources,” said Lane County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky.

“As those revenues continue to shrink, and we face our perpetual challenge of one of the lowest permanent property tax rates in Oregon, we are seeing that percentage decrease which puts at risk our ability to offer a wide array of high-quality services to our community. As we worked to put together this year’s proposed budget, we conducted a thorough and thoughtful process to identify cost reductions and revenue enhancements that balance the budget while maintaining core services.”

Lane County’s budget is made up of 34 distinct funds, many of which are restricted to specific services by law. Lane County’s General Fund, which is where general property taxes are held, is the most flexible fund and nearly 76 percent of it goes to fund public safety with the remainder supporting other public health, human services and general government services. The proposed budget is balanced but does include the reduction of 15 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions across several departments and funds. Nine of those positions are currently filled. There are no reductions in services or positions in the Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney’s Office, or Assessment & Taxation.

The proposed budget includes using $4.8 million in unallocated Transient Loding Tax reserves to fund the current level of rural Sheriff’s Office patrol for the next two years while the County works to identify a long-term funding solution for the Sheriff’s and District Attorney’s offices. Without this funding, rural residents, visitors and tourists would experience a drop in patrol services starting in July. Transient Loding Tax (TLT) is collected from people who rent hotel or motel rooms or vacation rentals in Lane County.  A recent legislative change now allows local governments to use up to half of TLT enacted since 2003 for non-tourism uses.

“We believe that allocating a portion of unallocated TLT to support underfunded public safety is prudent, given the options available to us,” said Mokrohisky. “We respect the concerns expressed by our tourism partners and I hope they can respect the balancing act that we are managing with regard to our public safety funding challenges in Lane County.”

Lane County has not reduced the amount of TLT to be used for tourism-related activities in the proposed budget. More than $11.4 million, including projected increased funding for Travel Lane County for tourism marketing, will be used to support tourism across Lane County. Tourism plays an important role in Lane County’s economy.

Read the County Administrator’s Budget Message.

Read the full proposed budget document.

The Budget Committee, which is comprised of five appointed residents and the five county commissioners, began its review of the proposed budget with a meeting and public hearing on May 5. A video recording of the proposed budget presentation and public hearing is available online.

The Budget Committee will meet multiple times during the next two weeks to receive information from County departments.

• Tuesday, May 12, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 13, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
• Thursday, May 14, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

The Budget Committee will have the opportunity to approve the proposed budget and any recommended changes on May 20 at 5:30 p.m. Public Comment will also be received at that meeting. Written public comment can be submitted to the Budget Committee at UPL@lanecountyor.gov“>LCGABUPL@lanecountyor.gov.

The Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget will appear before the Board of County Commissioners for adoption in late June.

All meetings are broadcast live on Metro TV (Comcast Cable channel 21). Meetings can also be watched live online at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/webcasts.

Lane County Emergency Management will conduct a test of the subscriber-based local emergency alert system – Lane Alerts – on Thursday, May 14, at 12:00 p.m. This test will include emails, recorded voice calls, and text messages, depending on each subscriber’s provided contact information.

Residents are encouraged to visit www.LaneAlerts.org to create a free Lane Alerts account and choose their preferred methods of receiving emergency alerts.

Lane Alerts – backed by Everbridge – allows subscribers to opt-in for notifications via phone call, text message, and email, based on the locations they care about. At minimum, subscribers must provide their name and one method of contact. Multiple addresses can be added to receive notifications about emergency events that may affect their home, workplace, child’s school, and more. Types of emergencies covered include evacuations, severe weather, flooding, police activity, and other critical events.

Residents who already have a Lane Alerts account, but who haven’t logged in recently, will need to update their account to Everbridge Community the next time they log in. Visit https://bit.ly/4whVBMm for details.

Stay informed and ensure your safety by signing up for Lane Alerts today.

Lane County Parks invites community to celebrate National Public Works Week with park tours

Lane County Parks invites the community to celebrate National Public Works Week in May with a series of short, guided park tours. Each tour runs from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and offers a look at current projects, planned improvements, and how park levy funds are being used.

Public Works Week recognizes the essential role public works staff play in keeping parks safe, functional, and accessible. From maintaining infrastructure to stewarding natural areas, their work touches daily life in meaningful ways.

During the week, Lane County Parks staff will lead tours at four locations – Harbor Vista, Armitage Park, Howard Buford Recreation Area (HBRA), and Blue Mountain Park – sharing updates on improvements, upcoming projects, and how park levy funds are being put to work.

Tour Schedule:

• Monday, May 18 – Harbor Vista Park in Florence
  Explore camping areas, cabins, and day-use spaces while learning about recent and upcoming improvements, including a completed restroom remodel, new hiker/biker campsites, and planned parking lot paving at the North Jetty.
• Tuesday, May 19 – Armitage Park & Campground in Eugene
  Walk through some of the park’s most-used areas, including the boat launch, trails, and dog park. Hear about recent upgrades and ongoing work to improve the dog park and traffic flow.
• Thursday, May 21 – Howard Buford Recreation Area (HBRA), East Trailhead near Pleasant Hill  
  Take a guided walk through areas shaped by prescribed fire. Learn how fire supports healthy ecosystems and see firsthand how the landscape responds to these management practices.
• Friday, May 22 – Blue Mountain Park outside Cottage Grove, OR
  Visit this lesser-known park outside Cottage Grove along Mosby Creek. The tour will highlight day-use areas, recent improvements to picnic amenities and parking, and ongoing fuels reduction work that supports long-term park health.

“These tours are an opportunity to connect the community with the work happening in their parks and to hear what parks mean to them,” said Lane County Parks Communications Coordinator Laura Linn.

Community members are encouraged to attend one or more tours to learn more about the parks they enjoy and the work that goes into maintaining them.

5/10/26 – LCSO Case 26-2177 – Missing Person from Eugene found deceased

On May 10th, at about 1:00 pm, Tyler Davis was found deceased near Lookout Reservoir east of Lowell. He was found by Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue volunteers from the Eugene Mountain Rescue team, who traversed extremely steep terrain to search areas difficult to access.

There is no evidence of a crime at this time, but the investigation remains active.  

Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue (SAR) continually searched the area. SAR staff and volunteers deployed multiple teams in the search area, east of Lowell. Utilizing search canines, vehicles and ground crews conducting grid searches. The Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol and SAR deployed boats and divers to Lookout Reservoir and LCSO, EPD and the Oregon State Police deployed drones to aid in the search.   

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank all those who contributed to the search. Including, the Eugene Police Department, the Oregon State Police, Civil Air Patrol and all the friends and family of Tyler Davis who came out to help the search effort. 

EPD to remember Fallen Officers during National Police Week May 10-16

Eugene Police Department honors local and fallen officers nationwide during National Police Week May 10-16, 2026

Eugene Police Department is remembering all fallen officers, and especially Officer Chris Kilcullen, Officer Oscar Duley, and Officer Jesse Jennings Jackson. By remembering them each year, we honor them for their exemplary service and the ultimate sacrifice they and their families made for our community.

National Police Week 2026 is May 10 through May 16. This is a time when our country memorializes law enforcement personnel who died in the line of duty. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week.  Currently, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, DC to participate in a number of planned events which honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice. There is a National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial in Washington DC to raise awareness about those officers who have died in the line of duty.

Eugene Police Department Fallen Officers

Officer Chris Kilcullen, 43, was shot and killed during a traffic stop on I-105 and 52nd Street in Springfield, Oregon on Friday, April 22, 2011. Officer Kilcullen had initiated a traffic stop of a reckless driver, who ran a red light. The driver, age 56, fled and Officer Kilcullen pursued her into Springfield on Highway 126. The vehicle swerved around several cars that were waiting at a red light at 52nd Street. The suspect’s vehicle was stopped and as Officer Kilcullen approached the vehicle, he was hit when the suspect suddenly fired a handgun, fatally wounding him. The suspect continued to flee and was pursued by numerous local officers for 35 miles to a forest road near Westfir, where she finally stopped. She remained in her car for several hours during a standoff until finally being taken into custody.

Officer Kilcullen, a 12-year veteran, had a remarkable career with 85 commendations, even from drivers he stopped. He won employee of the month awards in May 2004 and June 2008 after conducting the most investigations, arrests, traffic citations and field interviews among Eugene police officers. He moved to the traffic unit in 2005 and was a longtime member of the department’s crisis negotiation team, saving many lives. Officer Kilcullen left behind a wife, two children, a cousin who was like a sister, sister Colby, brother Cory, his father, John Kilcullen, and step mother Sherrie, many friends and coworkers, and a community that loved him.

The entire length of OR 126 (Eugene-Springfield Hwy), from the intersection with 6th and 7th Streets in Eugene to the intersection with East Main Street in Springfield, has been officially named in honor of Eugene Police Officer Chris Kilcullen. Senate Bill 987, approved in May 2011 by the Oregon Legislature, directed the Oregon Department of Transportation to place markers along the highway with the memorial designation. A total of four signs are now located at each end of the highway, and where travel from I-5 joins the highway in each direction.

Officer Jesse Jennings Jackson, 35, was killed in a car crash during pursuit of a reckless driver on Saturday, June 2, 1934. Officer Jesse Jennings Jackson and Patrolman Clarence Quinn were pursuing a reckless driver on June 2. Officer Quinn was driving, and Officer Jackson was a passenger, when the car they were following suddenly swerved.  Officer Quinn attempted to avoid a head-on collision and the police car plunged into the mill race. Officer Quinn survived the crash and Officer Jackson died at the scene. The suspects in this case, both age 22, were arrested on June 6 after an investigation.

Officer Jesse Jennings Jackson was born in Rola, Missouri, on July 2, 1898, living in that city until he was 16-years-old. He attended the Philadelphia State Electric and Steam Engineering School and upon his graduation, he joined the engineering service of the U.S. Navy. While in the Navy he made 15 trips across the Atlantic, being given a commission before his discharge at Vallejo, California in 1920. He went to Portland to become engineer for the Northwest Electric Company, remaining there 10 years. In 1930, he came to Eugene to be an engineer for the University of Oregon. He had been a police officer for the City during the past year. Jackson left a widow, Blanche Jackson, and one daughter, Francelle, age 8.

Officer Oscar Duley, 35, was shot by a bootlegger hiding in ambush while assisting Lane County Sheriff’s Office during a liquor raid in Marcola on August 28, 1930. Officer Duley had been stationed to wait for some young men who were said to be expecting a delivery of liquor. One, age 28, arrived and Officer Duley placed him under arrest and put him in a car. The suspect’s father, age 68, who had been hiding nearby opened fire, hitting Officer Duley. The two suspects fled. Officer Duley was taken to a hospital where he died shortly before 3 a.m. on August 29. A search began with a posse of than 100 deputy sheriffs, national guardsmen and residents of Marcola. There was a second shootout on August 29, at the old store building where the shooting suspect lived, during which Oregon Game Commission’s Deputy Game Warden Joseph Saunders of Hillsboro was killed and two others, a deputy game warden and a  sheriff’s deputy, were wounded. The 28-year-old bootlegger was captured at his home in bed. On November 25, 1930, the suspect in the shootings was located by six Lane County deputy sheriffs in a highly forested area near Westfir. The suspect opened fire and was shot and killed.

Officer Duley used to live at 531 Monroe Street with his wife Jacyln (there was a house there at the time). He was a famed local athlete and was known as Duley the Wrestling Cop.  He was scheduled to wrestle an opponent at the Lane County Fair the night he died.

PeaceHealth Announces It Now Intends To Renew Its Contract With Eugene Emergency Physicians

As U.S. District Court Judge Mustafa Kasubhai was preparing to hear oral arguments on the fifth day of hearings on Wednesday, he was told that a settlement had been reached. Attorneys said a written agreement is in place for a contract to move forward, though it may take weeks to hammer out details of the terms and be signed.

The abrupt shift comes three months after PeaceHealth told the 41-member local group it would be replaced by Atlanta-based ApolloMD—a move that sparked strong backlash from medical staff, community members, and elected officials.

PeaceHealth now says it’s negotiating a three-year contract with EEP for the RiverBend and Cottage Grove emergency departments, while direct employment of physicians will continue at its Florence hospital.

The announcement came amid the trial over a lawsuit about whether PeaceHealth’s earlier plan to transition staffing to ApolloMD and the newly formed Lane Emergency Physicians violated Oregon’s corporate practice of medicine law, SB 951.

ONA Statement on PeaceHealth Canceling its Plan to Outsource ER Care Out-of-State

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued the following statement after PeaceHealth announced plans to stop attempting to outsource emergency room care to out-of-state group ApolloMD and to renew its contract with local doctors at Eugene Emergency Physicians.

“Today’s announcement is a historic victory for all Oregonians.

PeaceHealth’s decision to reverse course is not an act of leadership, it is a retreat. Health executives were forced to back down thanks to lawsuits, pressure from elected leaders, and an unprecedented show of solidarity from thousands of nurses, doctors, caregivers, and community members who stood together to hold PeaceHealth accountable and stop out-of-state corporations from controlling our care

The message is unmistakable. Oregonians’ health is not for sale. Hospitals must put patients ahead of profits and local collaboration over corporate control.

PeaceHealth must follow the law and other health systems should take note. Oregon banned the corporate practice of medicine for a reason. Oregonians and their providers are in charge of their personal healthcare decisions. We will not allow our communities’ care to be undermined, outsourced, or controlled by corporate executives.

While we celebrate this victory, we recognize that damage has been done. Our community’s trust in PeaceHealth is broken. Regaining that trust will require increased transparency, partnership, and a stronger commitment to our communities from PeaceHealth.

Frontline nurses, doctors, and local leaders are ready to sit down with PeaceHealth executives to build a path forward that restores faith in our community’s healthcare system and put patients ahead of profits.”

###The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 25,000 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.

Fatal Philomath house fire amid growing wildfire concerns

PHILOMATH, Ore. – On May 8, 2026, at approximately 7:30 a.m., a unified command involving the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) and the Philomath Fire Department (PFD) responded to a structure fire near Northwest Sixth Street and Main Street in Philomath.

During the rapid primary search by firefighters, crews discovered a victim inside the home. The 72-year-old male was rescued from the home immediately and medical crews determined he was deceased. The search continued for additional victims, finding none. Firefighting efforts controlled the fire shortly after.

The cause of death remains under investigation by the Office of the Oregon State Fire Marshal.

BCSO closed westbound Highway 20 for approximately two and a half hours during the response and initial investigation.

Structure fires can spread rapidly and may extend into nearby vegetation, especially during dry conditions. Quick action by firefighters prevented the fire from spreading beyond the residence and reduced the risk of a larger wildland fire.

BCSO and PFD thank the Corvallis Fire Department, Philomath Police Department, Oregon Department of Transportation, the Office of the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Corvallis Regional Communications Center, and the Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplains for their assistance during the incident.

BCSO extends its condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Chaplains accompanied deputies while notifying the victim’s next of kin.

Two Oregon Department of Human Services programs in Eugene moving to new Eugene and Springfield locations

The Oregon Department of Human Services Self-Sufficiency Programs (SSP) and Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) in Eugene are moving to better serve clients.

The two programs will be moving from The McKenzie Center, 2885 Chad Drive, Eugene into two locations: 2101 West 11^th Avenue, Eugene and 101 30^th Street, Springfield. The move is expected to be complete by May 11, 2026. The Child Welfare program will remain at 2885 Chad Drive in Eugene.

“The two programs, SSP and OEP, are relocating to consolidate the programs into two locations in the Eugene Metro area and to have building spaces that are better suited to serving our community. We will have more staff available to see clients in person. We’re creating something better for the people we serve,” Elizabeth Lindbloom, Self-Sufficiency Program Manager, and Zayra Longoria, Oregon Eligibility Partnership Program Manager, said.

About ODHS

The ODHS programs provide financial supports to families which include SNAP, TANF, Domestic Violence Survivor Benefits, childcare and medical benefits. The JOBS program connects families to a Family Coach for an assessment and supports to achieve their goals and create pathways out of poverty. ODHS staff assist individuals and families in navigating resources, including finding and funding childcare, providing gas support, and offering transportation to domestic violence shelters, medical appointments, and other essential visits. ODHS collaborates with various partners to address family needs and connects families to affordable housing and other resource needs. ODHS works with other providers to provide employment and education opportunities, ensuring access to vital community resources.

Learn more about ODHS: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/default.aspx?  utm_source=odhs&utm_medium=egov_redirect&utm_campaign=https%3a%2f%2fwww.oregon.gov%2fdhs.

Learn more about the Child Welfare Program: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/cw.aspx.

Learn more about the Oregon Eligibility Partnership: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/oep.aspx.

Learn more about the Self-Sufficiency Programs: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/agency/Pages/ssp.aspx.

Cottage Grove is facing a $4.6 million budget deficit due to significant accounting errors.

The city manager says the mistake came from improperly using financial management software and missing state-required audits over the last four years.

Cottage Grove is grappling with a proposed budget needing cuts ahead of adopting it for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, but Cottage Grove City Manager Mike Sauerwein admits much of those budget woes stem from the city improperly using financial management software, and with the mistake comes deeper cuts.

Outside of public safety, no department funded by the city’s general fund is safe from the cuts in the proposed budget with the city’s library, community promotions fund, and administration hit hardest.

Sauerwein says the city managed to miss the $4.6 million mistake mainly because of the city’s failure to complete state required annual audits over the last three years.

He says the city brought in a new management team for its finance department including two certified public accountants to to look at its past audits and get the city caught up on audits, and it’s through the work they were doing that they discovered the problem.

A final budget meeting is scheduled for May 19 at 6 p.m. at Cottage Grove City Hall where Sauerwein says the city expects to adopt the budget that will go into effect on July 1.

Solidarity Social: A Benefit for Our Immigrant Neighbors

Join us for an evening of community, connection, and purpose! Sunday, May 31 5–8 PM Hybrid Gallery & Event SpaceCome enjoy: Live music No-host food & drinks Activities for kids Silent auction Dancing & more Sliding scale tickets: $10–$30 Plan ahead: Street parking and nearby lots available (where permitted). Carpool, walk, or bike if you can!

All proceeds support Oregon Community Asylum Network and Catholic Community Services of Lane County Refugee & Immigrant Services Program — helping our immigrant neighbors access safety, stability, and opportunity.Let’s come together in solidarity and make a meaningful impact. https://www.thehybrideugene.com/events/p/solidarity-social

Lane County will participate by setting up donation barrels for staff to donate at Lane County owned properties.

“Food for Lane County is already seeing high numbers of pantry visitors at a time when our food supply has been limited due to federal program cuts. We want all Lane County residents to have the food and resources they need to thrive, and we’re very concerned about the welfare of our community if SNAP benefits aren’t available.” said Food for Lane County Director of Development and Communications, Rebecca Sprinson.

For individuals and families in need of food, please visit the FFLC food finder, at:

Food Finder

Those interested in donating can do so by visiting: https://www.foodforlanecounty.org/ways-to=give/donate or by calling 541-343-2822.

$18.95 can help feed 120 people.

Every weekend, the volunteer crew at Burrito Brigade rolls hundreds of delicious vegan burritos to help close the hunger gap here in Eugene. Each box of tortillas — just $18.95 — helps feed 120 neighbors.

Could you spare $18.95 to help? Even better — could you make it a monthly donation to keep those burritos rolling all year long?

Every dollar makes a difference in these times of need. Thank you for being part of the Brigade. Donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/donation…/we-rise-by-lifting-others Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org

White Bird Clinic – · Crisis intervention is a 24/7 need in our community, and CAHOOTS, as part of White Bird Crisis Intervention programs, responds.

White Bird CAHOOTS Springfield Coverage: 11 am – 11 pm, 7 days a week (541-726-3714)

White Bird Clinic

This year marks 60 years of community health centers transforming care across the U.S. At White Bird Clinic, we’re proud to be part of this legacy – bringing whole-person care to our community’s most vulnerable neighbors for more than 50 years! From medical and dental services to harm reduction and crisis response, we’re here to meet people where they are.Learn more about community health at the link below: https://www.nachc.org/about-nachc/history-of-chc/

Whole Community News Report on CAHOOTS:

Since December of 2023, Eugene lost the University District hospital and the Hourglass Crisis Center, and as of last week, CAHOOTS. These were no-barrier treatment access points for our most vulnerable neighbors to receive care when experiencing a mental health crisis. READ MORE: https://wholecommunity.news/2025/04/20/public-comments-ask-city-not-to-lose-cahoots-too/

Contact for Services — Phone: CAHOOTS is dispatched within the Springfield urban growth boundary through the non-emergency number, 541-726-3714.

Starting in the new year, White Bird Dental Clinic will offer more walk-in clinic times. Currently, we offer walk-in clinics at 1415 Pearl St. every Monday and Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. In January, we will also add every other Friday at 7:30 a.m. Find more information at whitebirdclinic.org/dental

EWEB Emergency Water Stations

The final emergency water station has been officially installed in Eugene as part of the Eugene Water & Electric Board’s disaster preparedness plan.

This is where people can access water in case of earthquakes, wildfires, or other events that could disrupt or limit access to the city’s water system.

Other locations are the Eugene Science Center, Howard Elementary School, Prairie Mountain School, Amazon Park-YMCA, the Sheldon Fire Station, and the Lane Events Center and Fairgrounds.

All seven locations across the city of Eugene draw their water from underground wells. The intent is to provide individuals up to two gallons of water a day during an emergency. MORE INFO at EWEB: https://www.eweb.org/projects/emergency-water-stations

Oregon Food Bank · Find free food sites near you using OregonFoodFinder.org.

If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.

Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?

Here are resources that can help:

211Info:  Dial 2-1-1 or visit the211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon.

Oregon Food Bank:  Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Mapto find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you. 

Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit theADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area. 

5/11/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

Prescribed burn southeast of Bend that escaped containment Thursday has grown to 3,000 acres – Now at 70% Containment

A prescribed burn on the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District of the Deschutes National Forest was declared a wildfire Thursday afternoon after multiple spot fires spread outside the planned burn area, officials said.

The fire, now named the Pine Mountain Fire, was declared a wildfire at about 4 p.m., according to the U.S. Forest Service.The blaze is burning about 14 miles southeast of Bend and is 3,000 acres and is 70% contained, officials said Friday.

5/10 – Firefighters Halt Spread of “Carney Flat Fire” Near Prospect at 23 Acres

The fire was initially estimated at about six acres when crews arrived. Following overnight firefighting efforts, personnel were able to build containment line around the blaze and halt its growth at 23 acres, according to ODF.

5/10 – 10 pm 15 FIRES in OREGON

There are 15 Oregon Wildfires– many are silent and prescribed controlled burning. These silent fires can quickly turn into dangerous fires. Please stay alert and ready. There are lots of prescribed controlled burning going on in Oregon at this time.

The map shows those prescribed burning fires in green. The air quality in #lanecounty has become slightly stagnant. RX prescribed burning is still causing #airstagnation in other areas in Oregon. WILDFIRE MAP: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/instant/portfolio/index.html…

Oregon Prescription Drug Affordability Board to host community forums to hear how prescription drug prices affect Oregonians – Online Forums Monday and Tuesday

The Oregon Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is hosting a series of community forums in April and May to hear from people about the high cost of prescription drugs and the effect it has on their lives and budgets.

The in-person forums will be held May 5 at the Salem Library, May 6 at the Redmond Library, May 12 at the Asian Health & Service Center in Portland, and May 18 at the Beaverton Library. Online forums are scheduled for April 28, May 11, May 13, and the online board meeting, May 20.

“We invite all Oregonians to join us at these forums and share your stories about the cost of your medications and how those costs impact your lives,” said Sarah Young, PDAB executive director. “All forums will have similar content, so choose the best option for your schedule. We would love to have patients, caregivers, and consumers join us to share their experiences. Hearing your stories will help inform the board as it reviews drugs to identify affordability challenges and high out-of-pocket costs for patients.”

The board conducts annual drug reviews and presents a list of medications that may create affordability challenges to the Oregon Legislature each year. This year, PDAB will review the following medications to evaluate their affordability and their impact on Oregonians and the state’s health care system:

• Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Ozempic (Type 2 diabetes)
• Humulin R U-500 (improve blood sugar control for those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes who require more than 200 units of insulin per day)
• Keytruda and Verzenio (cancer)
• Xeljanz (autoimmune and inflammatory conditions)
• Ocrevus (multiple sclerosis)
• Skyrizi (immune-mediated inflammatory conditions)
• Tremfya (plaque psoriasis)
• Xolair (allergic and inflammatory conditions)

The feedback from the community forums will help inform PDAB’s drug review process. Each of the drugs and what they treat can be found on PDAB’s website.

The online forums are:

• Monday, May 11, from noon to 1:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 160 556 2737 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)
• Wednesday, May 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 160 948 4958 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)

The in-person forums are:

• Tuesday, May 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in Portland at the Asian Health & Service Center, 9035 SE Foster Road
• Monday, May 18, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Beaverton at the Beaverton City Library, 12375 SW Fifth St.

“We also invite everyone to share online feedback about the prescription drugs the board is reviewing,” Young said. “If you have been prescribed one of the drugs on the list, please answer the questions and submit the form.”

The feedback forms are located on the PDAB website and include options for patients, medical experts, safety net clinics, and others.

The Oregon Legislature created the board out of Senate Bill 844 in 2021 to protect Oregonians and the Oregon health care system from the high costs of prescription drugs. The board holds monthly online meetings that are open to the public. The board has eight members with backgrounds in clinical medicine or health care economics.

For more information, email pdab@dcbs.oregon.gov, call 971-374-3724 or go to dfr.oregon.gov/pdab.

### About PDAB: The Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is in the Division of Financial Regulation, part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. The board was established under ORS 646A.693 to protect residents of Oregon, state and local governments, commercial health plans, health care providers, pharmacies licensed in Oregon, and others within the health care system in this state from the high costs of prescription drugs. Visit dfr.oregon.gov/pdab.

Oregon Community Foundation Announces Building Hope Fund to Invest in Middle-Income Housing in Oregon

$100 million down payment designed to attract more financing to build homes

With Oregonians facing a severe housing shortage, Oregon Community Foundation is stepping up with a bold new commitment: A $100 million down payment to inspire even larger investments in Oregon housing.

Oregon Community Foundation President and CEO Lisa Mensah announced today the creation of the Building Hope Fund to provide loans to home builders across Oregon. The fund’s goal is to help finance 10,000 new housing units for middle-income Oregonians over 10 years.

The Building Hope Fund is a vehicle for impact investing. In addition to traditional grantmaking, impact investing is a powerful way to put capital to work to address the state’s most pressing issues. The Building Hope Fund will use Oregon Community Foundation’s investment capacity to provide flexible financing to developers who are ready to build homes for sale and rental housing across Oregon.

Oregon is currently building only about half of the 30,000 units needed every year to pull the state out of its housing crisis. The shortage is especially acute for housing designed for middle-income Oregonians. 

“We hear it from business owners all the time: Jobs are sitting empty, and opportunities are unrealized because working families cannot find housing,” said Mensah. “We will invest in housing for middle-income Oregonians — restaurant servers, bartenders, nurses, small business owners, construction workers, teachers — and offer reasonable loans to developers so they can get busy building.”

Mensah said the Building Hope Fund will begin with $100 million in seed funding with the intention of bringing in other partners, including investors, donors, businesses, other foundations and financial institutions, to grow the fund and multiply its impact across rural and urban communities statewide.

“There’s a reason they call it the ‘missing middle,’” said Anna Mackay of Shortstack, a home builder in the Portland region. “Private capital builds market-rate housing; public funding supports deeply affordable homes. But middle-income housing falls through the gap. Home builders like us often have to piece together a dozen complicated funding sources for a single project. Oregon Community Foundation is paving the way. The Building Hope Fund is a galvanizing step toward housing more Oregonians.”

Union County homebuilder Gust Tsiatsos said that more remote areas like Eastern Oregon are overlooked by developers of large housing projects. Incomes are lower, and buyers have few options.

“We would like to reward and serve our working population by building more homes they can afford,” Tsiatsos said, adding that he has projects awaiting development in La Grande, Baker City and Ontario that could bring 67 homes to the region but are stuck for lack of affordable financing.

“Eight years ago, I could build for around $125 a square foot, and now we’re pushing $400 a square foot,” Tsiatsos said. “Affordable financing is one of the biggest challenges.”

Project Turnkey — Oregon Community Foundation has a strong track record in housing investments. After the pandemic and devastating wildfires in 2020, state leaders turned to OCF for Project Turnkey to quickly distribute $125 million in grants to convert underused motels into shelter and transitional housing. The initiative increased the state’s supply of emergency year-round shelter beds by 30 percent.

Oregon Impact Fund — Oregon Community Foundation will continue to operate the Oregon Impact Fund, a $33 million fund that lends to nonprofit organizations, tribal enterprises and for-profit social ventures in Oregon that create impact in affordable housing, education, health care access, natural resource management and job creation in underserved communities.

“Both Project Turnkey and the Oregon Impact Fund show what can happen when a foundation responds to a genuine crisis by adding to our traditional role as a grants-and-scholarships institution,” Mensah said.

Oregon Community Foundation will continue grantmaking to nonprofits throughout Oregon, including working in partnership with organizations building affordable housing and addressing homelessness. The Building Hope Fund is not yet ready to begin providing loans. More information will be available for developers in the coming months.

About Oregon Community Foundation  — Oregon Community Foundation was founded in 1973 with a mission to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF works to strengthen communities in every county in Oregon through research, grantmaking and scholarships. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, please visit oregoncf.org. 

Oregon DMVs regularly pushed to close because of short staffing

Regional managers must weigh where to prioritize staff so they can serve as many Oregonians as possible

ALBANY – Jessica Lavery starts her mornings, sometimes as early as 6 a.m., deciding if she needs to close one of the offices she manages or shift her staff to another location.

Lavery manages the Oregon Department of Transportation’s Northwest region of Oregon’s Driver and Motor Vehicle Services division, which has offices across the Willamette Valley and two along the coast. On May 1, she and other agency leaders decided to close the Albany office for the day after each of the four staff members were unavailable. Two called in sick while the others had already been approved for time off, she said. 

Decisions like hers are routine for DMV managers grappling with severe staffing shortages caused by outdated and limited positions within the agency, as well as a spike in employee departures following a budget crisis within the agency.

Albany’s office closure marked the 34th full day that DMV offices have had to close across Oregon since Jan. 1, with smaller offices such as Madras, Prineville or Newport regularly closing because of similar staffing issues. Last year, there were 92 full-day closures across Oregon because of staffing issues, according to agency spokesperson Chris Crabb.

The Oregon DMV employs a total of 768 employees, with 361 working across its 58 field offices. Its bigger offices are mostly located within the Portland metro region and typically have more than seven counter spaces. 

Since late June 2025, 64 DMV employees have left their positions after state lawmakers failed to pass a bill that would have updated the Oregon Department of Transportation’s funding structure for operations and maintenance. The budget uncertainty, combined with nearly 500 ODOT workers receiving layoff notices and a hiring freeze that lasted until March, accelerated employee departures, Crabb said. Lawmakers passed a short-term funding fix this spring and avoided layoffs by eliminating vacant positions, but many transportation department workers quit or retired early because of uncertainty.

Oregon DMV offices are in the process of hiring 35 positions, but that process takes time, Crabb said. 

And even if all vacancies were filled, there still wouldn’t be enough employees to cover the demand for services, Crabb said, because the state has employed roughly the same number of people at DMV offices over the last 25 years despite the state’s population growing by more than 840,000 people in the same timeframe.

Oregon voters this month will have a say on whether to pass a law that would raise revenue for maintenance and operations within the Oregon Department of Transportation. Measure 120, placed on the ballot for the May 19 primary, proposes raising the gas tax by six cents, doubling the payroll tax from 0.1% of a paycheck to 0.2% of a paycheck until 2028, and raising title fees and most vehicle registration fees. 

A balancing act – Lavery said she understands the community members who are frustrated by DMV office closures, particularly those living in rural areas. 

“Gas is expensive, so then they have to drive however many miles to go to another DMV,” she said. “I know for the community it feels really frustrating and feels like they’re being left out, but that just isn’t the case. It’s a real balancing act.”

The resulting staff shortages means DMV managers regularly ask staff to commute to a different location to help severely short-staffed offices, which isn’t always efficient.

For instance, a staff member commuting from the Albany or Salem office to help in Newport, has to drive, work and take lunch and other breaks all within an eight-hour window. 

“In reality, they’re really only helping for four to five hours,” said Mia Ravell, the Oregon DMV customer service manager for South Salem and Albany.

The alternative of doing nothing, however, would mean more DMV office closures.

“Frequently there is no amount of staff shifting that can avoid closures entirely,” Crabb said. “We have some offices with only three, two or even one full-time staff member. We try to limit the impact on any one community, but due to staffing constraints in each geographic region, sometimes we must close one office more than others.” 

Alternative ways to get DMV services – There are several ways Oregonians can get DMV services without having to go to an office in person. 

The Oregon DMV last year launched 10 Fred Meyer kiosks, mostly around the Portland metro region, that let people renew their vehicle registration, print a copy of their vehicle registration and replace vehicle registration cards and stickers. 

Oregonians can also go to the agency’s online platform, known as “DMV2U,” to take knowledge tests, renew a license or vehicle registration, schedule appointments, update an address, file collision reports or report vehicle sales. The agency also offers informational Youtube videos explaining how to use the online platform. 

“These resources are something the Oregon DMV is really trying to pour into just because we realize and understand there needs to be different avenues to assist the communities and Oregonians,” Ravell said. (SOURCE)

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs to Host Statewide Memorial Day Event in Salem

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will host Oregon’s annual Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony in person at 11 a.m., Monday, May 25 in view of the Oregon State Capitol Building.

This event honors Oregon’s fallen service members from all eras of service and will feature remarks by dignitaries and special guests along with ceremonial elements including a color guard, singing of the national anthem, a wreath laying and the playing of “Taps.”

The ceremony will be hosted at the Oregon State Capitol State Park, located directly across the street from the front entrance of the Oregon State Capitol Building, 900 Court Street NE in Salem. This event is being temporarily relocated from its traditional annual location at the World War II Memorial due to adjacent construction taking place on the Capitol grounds.

The event is open to the public, and uncovered seating will be provided for attendees. Accessible pathways and seating areas for those needing accommodations will also be available. Attendees are reminded to plan accordingly for Oregon weather.

For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/odvavet.

Statewide Memorial Day Events — In addition to the Capitol ceremony, ODVA maintains a Statewide Memorial Day Events Calendar highlighting local observances and community celebrations honoring Oregon’s fallen heroes.

To view events near you, visit oregondva.com/event-calendar.

Organizations and communities hosting Memorial Day events are encouraged to submit their event for inclusion on the calendar by using the “Add Your Event” link on that page.

If you have any questions, please contact ODVA at (800) 692-9666 or visit oregon.gov/odva.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or Tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.  

BLM prepares to open campgrounds for 2026 recreation season

Know Before You Go and check local fire restrictions to stay safe and informed

As spring temperatures rise, the Bureau of Land Management is excited to welcome visitors to public lands across Oregon and Washington for the 2026 recreation season. While many sites are moving to full-service operations, the BLM urges people to plan ahead, practice “Know Before You Go” safety and strictly adhere to upcoming seasonal fire restrictions.

“Each year we look forward to welcoming visitors back,” said Jim Regan-Vienop, Klamath Falls Acting Field Manager. “Public lands offer everyone a chance to unwind, explore, and appreciate the landscapes we all share.”

BLM recreation areas offer a broad selection of activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, off-highway vehicle recreation and boating across a wide variety of landscapes.

Most seasonal campgrounds across Oregon and Washington open by mid-May, though specific dates vary based on local conditions and elevation. The BLM encourages all visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve these shared spaces for future generations.

Safe recreation begins with thorough planning; always share your itinerary with someone at home and be prepared to “Pack It In, Pack It Out” if facilities have limited trash service early in the season. For those drawn to the region’s rivers, water safety is paramount, always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket and check local water conditions before launching.

Public safety depends on responsible fire practices. Before heading out, visitors are urged to verify if campfires are permitted at their specific destination, as high-danger periods often restrict fires to designated steel rings in improved campgrounds only or restrict open flames completely. The BLM reminds everyone to never leave a fire unattended and to use the “Drown, Stir, and Feel” method to ensure coals are cold to the touch before departing.

For the most up-to-date information on specific site availability and local fire danger levels, please visit the BLM Oregon/Washington webpage or contact your local District Office.

Nearly 100 local measures on primary ballots across Oregon, many to fund struggling fire districts

Voters in almost every Oregon county will vote in May on whether to raise property taxes to fund schools, libraries, parks and fire departments

Voters in a third of Oregon’s 36 counties will vote during the May primary on whether to raise local property taxes to fund struggling fire districts and departments.

The tax levies and bonds for firefighting and emergency services are among nearly 100 local ballot measures Oregonians in 30 counties will be asked to vote on by May 19. Others include raising local property taxes and bonding — essentially taking out a loan — to pay for schools, libraries and parks. Some voters will decide whether to annex land into their city, end mandated conversations about changing Oregon’s border with Idaho and change city charters — a sort of rulebook for how cities operate.

Fire 

How to fund fire departments is by far the most common question local voters will decide across Oregon. In 12 counties, 28 fire districts are asking voters for a tax levy or bond to help pay for staff and operations, and one fire district in Sandy is asking voters about being annexed into the Clackamas Fire District.

Property taxes fund the bulk of local fire departments and fire districts, but Measures 5 and 50 that passed in the 1990s essentially limited the growth of those taxes across the state by basing property values on a rate-limited assessment rather than market worth.

Other property tax suppressants, such as urban renewal districts and enterprise zones meant to incentivize development and job growth with low to no property taxes for a number of years also siphon off dollars fire departments could use, said Brian Stewart, assistant chief of strategic services at Clackamas Fire and the legislative chair for the Oregon Fire Chiefs Association.

“We’re all across the state feeling the pressures. We’re all underfunded for what the community expectations are,” Stewart said.

Low revenues coupled with rising community needs from fire departments has led many to try and get by on volunteers and thin budgets.

“Firefighters across the state are emergency first responders to paramedics. When you think about strokes, cardiac arrests, respiratory arrest, all those things — time is against us — and so we need to have the resources available in force for structural fires, and we need to have them available in force for those really critical emergency events,” he said.

Departments also rely on state and federal grants and partnerships, but those dollars are also in higher demand as fire seasons that used to last from late July through August now stretch from May to October, he said. And if they aren’t responding to more wildfires, they are responding to bigger structural fires due to homes and buildings being made and furnished with cheap materials that burn hotter and faster than they have in previous decades, he added.

Libraries, parks and schools

Fire districts aren’t the only public service providers hamstrung by revenue losses from Measures 5 and 50. Voters in 16 counties are being asked to approve a new bond or property tax increase, or renew one, to help fund schools, parks and libraries.

Hood River’s Parks and Recreation District is asking voters to approve a bond to construct a new pool at the Hood River Aquatic Center, which has been relatively untouched since it was built in 1948, according to reporting by Uplift Local. Measure 50 froze the park district’s property tax revenue rate at 35 cents per $1,000 of assessed value for the last three decades. If the bond passes, taxpayers would chip in 64 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value.

In Grant County, the creation of a new taxing district to pay for the county’s only library is on the ballot. After county budget officials determined last year that axing the library was the best option to cover a $1.5 million county budget shortfall, residents created the Save Our Library Committee to come up with solutions. Every town and city in the county has since passed a resolution in favor of the Grant County Library District, and the committee was able to secure enough signatures to get the question of taxing 50 cents on every $1,000 of assessed property value on primary ballots to pay for the library.

City charters

In 10 cities and one county, more than a dozen measures would change or modernize local charters, which are a sort of local constitution laying out local governance rules.

In Eugene, voters will decide whether to change their city charter to end the requirement that city department heads live within city limits and will decide whether to remove gender-specific pronouns from the charter when referring to individuals, instead using job titles or gender-neutral language.

Four separate ballot measures would ask voters in Corvallis whether to change the city charter to align more with one used by the League of Oregon Cities, a non-profit local governance association. Voters in Warrenton will take a similar vote on aligning with the League’s charter.

Annexation

Voters in Benton County will review the most ballot measures of any county in Oregon, and those in Philomath will have the greatest number of hyperlocal measures to decide. There are seven separate proposals to annex “island territories” that are not technically part of Philomath but are surrounded by enough of the city that residents and businesses on the islands receive city services without paying into the tax base that covers the cost of those services.

Philomath Mayor Christopher McMorran said voters he hears from are generally supportive of the annexations, but he also noticed some confusion. He notes that these are not being annexed for development, but rather to ensure residents and businesses benefiting from city services, who might be bordered on three sides by the city, are also paying into the system supporting those services.

In all, he estimates it would affect less than 20 landowners.

“As we looked at shoring up our budget, it felt like a fair ask to make sure everyone adequately shares in the costs,” he said.

Across the state in Wallowa County, voters will decide whether to end mandatory annual conversations about how to leave Oregon. Wallowa County in 2023 became one of more than a dozen eastern counties that expressed support for leaving Oregon to become part of Idaho, and the voter-approved ballot measure a group of residents now want to repeal required county commissioners to meet twice a year to discuss joining Idaho.

The Wallowa County group opposed to the mandatory meetings and the Greater Idaho Movement is asking voters to bring them to a close.

Matt McCaw, executive director of Greater Idaho Movement who led the 2023 measure said even if the meetings go away, “the issue is not going to go away.”

“The people of Eastern Oregon feel detached from Western Oregon and they would prefer the state level governance of Idaho over Oregon,” he said. “Do we think it would be valuable for the people of Wallowa County to continue to have these meetings? Absolutely. But we’re not going to mount a campaign to try to force these meetings to continue.” (SOURCE)

U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have announced a collaboration with fellow lawmakers to introduce the Puppy Protection Act, aimed at enhancing the welfare of dogs in breeding facilities.

This legislation seeks to ensure that dogs are housed in safe environments, have access to outdoor spaces, and can engage regularly with both humans and other dogs. Key provisions of the act include improved enclosure standards that allow dogs to stand fully upright and require adequate space based on their size, as well as a mandate for unrestricted outdoor access for dogs over 12 weeks old.

Additionally, the act stipulates a daily socialization requirement of 30 minutes with humans and compatible dogs, alongside veterinary screenings before breeding attempts. It also limits breeders to two litters within an 18-month period and a maximum of six litters throughout a dog’s lifetime, while ensuring that retired breeding dogs are placed in humane environments, such as with adoptive families or rescue organizations.

The Office of the Governor, in partnership with the Oregon Arts Commission, is proud to relaunch Art in the Governor’s Office. This program brings the works of some of Oregon’s most distinguished artists to the state Capitol to be displayed in the Governor’s Gallery (formerly the Reception Room).

This longstanding tradition, which began in 1975 and celebrates the diverse creativity of Oregon’s professional visual artists, returns this year after a pause due to the pandemic and the restoration of the Capitol building. It will feature a series of three exhibitions of renowned practitioners of photography and painting.

The 2026 series begins with an exhibition by Harrison Branch, an accomplished photographer and Oregon State University Professor Emeritus. Branch’s “Palladotypes: Unpublished Images” will be on display April 24 through July 16.

“With construction nearly completed, it’s so meaningful to be back in the Capitol – and restart the sharing of art in the Governor’s Office,” said Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson. “Oregonian artist Marie Watt so perfectly described the importance of art: ‘Art is a living, breathing part of our community. Art belongs to everyone, and it has the power to transform the way we see each other and ourselves.’ I encourage everyone who visits or works in the Capitol to stop by the Governor’s Office to view these beautiful pieces of art and photography.”

Featured Artist: Harrison Branch — Born in New York City and educated at the San Francisco Art Institute and Yale University, Harrison Branch has spent more than four decades at the forefront of photographic education and artistry. Joining Oregon State University faculty in 1972, Branch was instrumental in developing the university’s photography program.

Branch, who lives in Corvallis, is celebrated for his technical expertise with bellows cameras—large, intricate instruments that allow for extreme precision. His work deeply explores the “natural environment,” specifically focusing on the tonal relationships between silver and the superior platinum-palladium printing process.

“In the age of digital photography,” Branch said, “I prefer the traditional methods, which could also be called classical. To me this hands-on method brings the most joy and excitement. Watching an image materialize in the developing tray is still magical.”

His photographs, which often feature undeveloped natural areas, have been exhibited internationally, including at the Bibliothèque Nationale in Paris and the George Eastman House.

Upcoming 2026 Exhibitions

Following the exhibition by Harrison Branch, the Governor’s Office will host two additional prominent Oregon artists:

Erik Sandgren (July 17 – Oct. 8): Sandgren’s work probes the figured landscape through the lenses of myth and history. He works in many media. His large-scale murals, paintings and prints are in private and public collections as diverse as the Maryhill Museum of Art and the Yale University Art Gallery.



Nancy Watterson Scharf (Oct. 9 – Dec. 31): Scharf is based in the Southern Oregon coast range, and her acrylic paintings provide a “voice for nature,” investigating the complex relationship between humans, animals and the ecosystems they share.

Public Access — The Governor’s Gallery is viewable most Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitation information is available at 503-986-1388.

BLM Brings Oregon Folklife Programming to National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

BAKER CITY, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to explore Oregon’s living cultural traditions through a new interpretive folklife series at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center beginning this week.

The series aligns with America’s 250th anniversary by highlighting the people, traditions, and cultural knowledge that have shaped the nation over time. Visitors can experience firsthand how traditional arts connect past and present while supporting the BLM’s mission.

From April through October, visitors will have interactive opportunities that represent Native American, ranching, and rural lifeways. Presentations will take place daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Pacific Time, offering deeper insight into each artist’s craft and cultural background.

April 23-25, Sara Barton, traditional basket maker of Mono Lake Paiute and Yosemite Miwuk ancestry works closely with Burns Paiute weavers

May 7-9, Kathy Moss, cowboy poet, buckaroo, horse trainer, and rancher from Prairie City

June 18-20, Roberta Kirk, regalia maker, food gatherer, and bead and dentalium artist from Warm Springs, Tenino and Wasq’u

July 9-11, Cheryl Newhouse, spinner and weaver from Richland

August 13-15, Mildred Quaempts, dentalium artist from the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla

September 24-26, Clair Kehrberg, saddle and gear maker and leatherworker from John Day

October 15-17, Katie Harris Murphy and Mary Harris, regalia and beadwork artists from the Wallowa Band Nimiipuu, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Karuk Tribes

“This interpretive outreach brings people face-to-face with the traditions that continue to shape communities across Oregon,” said Robert Reis, acting manager for the Interpretive Center. “These demonstrations create a meaningful connection to the past through the skills and knowledge that are still practiced today.”

This series is designed to build long-term, high-quality cultural programming at the Interpretive Center, ensuring visitors can engage with authentic traditions and perspectives for years to come.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located at 22267 Highway 86 in Baker City and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT. Admission fees apply. For more information, visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center website or call 541-523-1843.

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state.

The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability.

In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs.

If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

Staying Informed During a Communications Outage: Best Practices for the Public

Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it’s vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:

  Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio

• Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
• Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. Tip: Pre-tune your radio to your local emergency broadcast station (e.g., OPB in Oregon or NOAA frequencies).

Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone

• Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
• WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if cell service is out, WEA alerts will not be delivered. This is why having backup methods like a radio is essential.

Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power

• Charge phones, power banks, laptops, and rechargeable flashlights before fire weather conditions worsen.
• Consider solar-powered chargers or car chargers as backups.
• If you are sheltering in place, a generator (solar or gas powered) is helpful.

Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance

• Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
• Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” Download your area in advance so you can navigate even if cell towers or internet access are down.
• When in doubt, call 511 or visit the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
• Don’t wait for a notification—if you feel unsafe, evacuate early.

Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info

• Phone numbers of family, neighbors, and local emergency contacts.
• Address of evacuation shelters, veterinary services (for pets/livestock), and medical facilities.
• Your own emergency plan, including meeting locations.
• Have copies of vital documents in your go-bag and take video of your property (inside and out) for insurance claims later.

If Calling 9-1-1 Over Wi-Fi or Satellite, Check Your Location Settings

If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.

• Update this emergency address when you travel or relocate—especially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
• Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you are—include your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.

Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage

• Register for OR-Alert and your county’s local alert system.
• Follow your local emergency management officials’ and bookmark resources like: wildfire.oregon.gov.

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

• Know the three levels of evacuation:
  • Level 1 – Be Ready
  • Level 2 – Be Set
  • Level 3 – GO NOW
• If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasing—take action even if you haven’t received an alert.

 Be Your Own Info Network

• Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities.
• Post printed signs with updates for those passing by.

In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points.

Support and Restoration in Progress
To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. *** Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.

Reconnect When Service Returns

• Once communications are restored, check official websites:
  • Oregon.gov/oem
  • Your county emergency management page
  • TripCheck.com for road conditions
• Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.

 Prepare for Delays in Restoration

• Communication may come back in phases. Damage to fiber lines or cell towers can take time to repair.
• Continue using backup methods and stay alert for updates via radio or in-person notices.

 Final Tip:

In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.

Oregon’s Missing Persons

Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.

In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.

Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced

Taking Another Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey

Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends.

But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle

We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate.

Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.” https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162

We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a huge reward for information that brings Fauna home.

Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing. 

Tipline- 541-359-5638

Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com

FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132

The Junction City Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance locating a missing and possibly endangered person.

62-year-old Wade Felton Lloyd, of Junction City, was reported missing on November 20, 2025.  Mr. Lloyd was last seen on November 16^th in the area of Birch Street and 2^nd Avenue in Junction City. 

Mr. Lloyd normally stays close to the Junction City area, has close ties to his family, and his only transportation is an older motorized bicycle, which is also missing.

Mr. Lloyd is a slender white male, standing 6 feet tall with brown hair and hazel eyes.  Mr. Lloyd is without his cell phone, wallet, and his medications.  

The Junction City Police have exhausted all leads as to his whereabouts and is hoping that the community might recognize him or recall where they last saw Mr. Lloyd.   If you have information regarding Mr. Lloyd or have seen him on or after November 16^th, 2025, please call the Junction City Police Department at 541-998-1245.

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