The latest news stories of interest in the Rogue Valley and the state of Oregon from the digital home of Southern Oregon, Wynne Broadcasting’s RogueValleyMagazine.com
Wednesday – April 29, 2026
Rogue Valley Weather
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
Here’s the overview of weather outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast
Oregon National Guard Invites Public to Two Southern Oregon Events In May
Open House and Norwegian Foot March offer community members a chance to engage with local Guard Soldiers
An Oregon Army National Guard Soldier with the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, speaks with community members about a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle during an Open House at the Medford Armory in Medford, Oregon, on May 3, 2025. The annual event gives the public an opportunity to interact with soldiers and learn about military service opportunities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
MEDFORD, Ore. — The Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment is hosting two public events in the Medford area in early May, inviting community members and media to participate and learn more about their local National Guard.
1-186 Infantry Open House – May 1, 2026
HHC/1-186 Infantry invites the public to its Open House at the Medford Armory, 1701 S. Pacific Hwy, Medford, Oregon 97501. The armory will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Visitors will have the opportunity to talk with soldiers and learn about military occupational specialties, including scouts, medics, and more. Military vehicles will be on display, and Oregon Army National Guard recruiters will be on hand to answer questions about military service and career opportunities. Registrants will also be entered to win a pair of Apple AirPods 4. Registration is available via QR code on the event flyer.
Norwegian Foot March – May 2, 2026
The following day, HHC/1-186 Infantry will host a Norwegian Foot March at Bear Creek Greenway, 2931 S. Pacific Hwy, Medford, Oregon 97501. Registration and ruck sack weigh-in begins at 4 a.m., with the march kicking off at 5 a.m. The event concludes at noon.
The Norwegian Foot March is a physically demanding endurance march with roots in Nordic military tradition. Participants carry a 24-pound dry rucksack over the 30 Kilometer course. Those who complete the march will receive a commemorative plaque or coin. Drinks and snacks will be provided.
The event is open to the public and free to participate. Registration is available via QR code on the event flyer. Registrants who complete the event are also entered for a chance to win a pair of Apple AirPods 4. Current service members may register and participate, but are not eligible for the raffle.
For more information about the Open House, contact SFC Michael Ege at michael.j.ege.mil@army.mil or (541) 450-8978. For more information about the Norwegian Foot March, contact CPT Christopher Gallagher at istopher.i.gallagher.mil@army.mil“>christopher.i.gallagher.mil@army.mil or (971)-355-1310.
The Oregon National Guard is a part-time, community-based organization of more than 8,000 men and women who serve their neighbors in times of emergency and defend the nation when called upon. Guard members serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year while maintaining civilian careers and community ties. For more information about joining the Oregon Army National Guard, visit oregonarmyguard.com.
Oregon Department of Human Services Medford Office Closed Due to Facility Issue
https://www.facebook.com/ORHumanServices/posts/odhs-offices-at-24-28-w-6th-st-in-medford-are-closed-today-april-27-2026-due-to-/1277299647845670/
Governor Kotek Declares Drought Emergency in Jackson and Five Other Counties
Record-low snowpack and ongoing dry conditions drive urgent state action across multiple regions
Governor Tina Kotek has declared a drought emergency in Crook, Grant, Jackson, Jefferson, Morrow, and Wallowa counties through Executive Order 26-07 and directed state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to the region. The Executive Order is available here.
- Warmth and Low Snowpack: The 2025-26 winter was ranked among the warmest on record, causing snowpack to melt two months early and leading to nearly empty natural reservoirs.
- Impact on Water Supply: Natural water sources (tributaries to the Rogue and Applegate rivers) are in jeopardy, threatening agricultural, municipal, and private water supplies.
- Official Declaration: Following a local declaration, Governor Kotek declared a drought emergency to facilitate emergency funding and support for farmers, ranchers, and affected water users.
- Long-term Outlook: Conditions are expected to worsen as summer approaches, with water use being highly restricted.
- Information Source: For updates on local water supplies and conservation, check the Medford Water Supply Outlook page.
Emigrant Lake outside of Ashland, Ore., in Jackson County in the summer of 2021. Pictured are the “bathtub rings” showing past water levels in the reservoir.
This marks the second drought declaration issued in 2026. In total, nine of Oregon’s 36 counties are now under drought emergency status. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Oregon’s 2025–26 winter tied with 1934 as the warmest winter on record. The unusually warm temperatures contributed to a record-low snowpack with likely impacts on natural resources, water supply, and wildfire risk across the state.
“Communities across the state are being confronted with unprecedented drought conditions,” Governor Kotek said. “My office and relevant state agencies are at the ready to assist affected communities address drought impacts and continue efforts to secure a stronger, more climate-resilient Oregon. The abnormally dry conditions we’re experiencing should serve as a stark reminder that wildfire season is around the corner, and Oregonians need to be ready.”
Forecasted snowpack, temperature, precipitation, and water supply conditions suggest that drought conditions in the counties are unlikely to improve in the near-term.
Jackson County
As of April 7, 95% of Jackson County is in moderate to severe drought. SPEI values over various timescales indicate moderate drought conditions are present for most of the county. Over the last year, precipitation conditions have been below normal.
Crook County
As of April 7, 89% of Crook County is in moderate to severe drought. Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and water year-to-date (WYTD) indicators show drier-than-normal conditions, with below-normal precipitation across most of the county.
Grant County
As of April 7, 99% of Grant County is in moderate to severe drought. SPEI values over the last year and WYTD indicate drier-than-normal conditions for most of the county. Over the last year, precipitation conditions were below normal for most of the county.
Jefferson County
As of April 7, 94% of Jefferson County is in severe drought, with the remainder of the county in moderate drought. SPEI values over various timescales indicate moderate to extreme drought conditions throughout the county. WYTD precipitation is just below normal (70-90%) and WYTD temperatures in Jefferson County are well above normal. These conditions have resulted in well below normal snowpack throughout the water year.
Morrow County
As of April 7, 80% of Morrow County is in moderate to severe drought. WYTD SPEI values generally indicate normal conditions for most of the county. SPEI values over the last year indicate drier-than-normal conditions for most of the county. Over the last year, precipitation conditions have been below normal for most of the county.
Wallowa County
As of April 7, all of Wallowa County is in moderate drought to severe drought. SPEI values over the last year indicate moderate to severe drought conditions are present for much of the county. WYTD SPEI values are more variable, ranging from drier-than-normal to wetter-than-normal conditions. Over the last year, precipitation has been below normal.
Impact and State Response
Drought conditions are expected to significantly affect Oregon’s farms, ranches, recreation and tourism sectors, drinking water availability, fish and wildlife habitats, and other natural resource-dependent activities. Extreme dryness will likely shorten the growing season, decrease water supplies, and increase wildfire risk.
The drought declaration unlocks emergency tools for affected communities, including assistance for local water users and expedited review processes through the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD).
In March, the Governor declared drought in Baker, Deschutes, and Umatilla Counties for the 2026 calendar year, pursuant to Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 536.740. The Oregon Water Supply Availability Committee and state natural resource partners continue to monitor water conditions closely.
As state and local officials coordinate with federal partners, conditions will be closely monitored by the state’s natural resource and public safety agencies, including the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM).
Asante Hospital’s Bid to Take Over a Medford Surgery Center Is Delayed by Oregon Health Authority
Claims regarding a lack of transparency involving the closure of Asante Ashland Community Hospital’s services continue to grow. The Oregon Health Authority(OHA) now cites a lack of information as the reason for pausing its investigation into the hospital’s request to take over the Surgery Center of Southern Oregon.
Asante’s request comes in the wake of the hospital in Ashland closing all but its emergency room and lab diagnostics, claiming it can no longer afford to run a full hospital.
Asante already partially owns the Surgery Center but has proposed becoming the sole owner. To move forward with the full purchase, Asante and the Surgery Center must undergo a state review, but that review has been paused by OHA due to a lack of cooperation, according to OHA. “The review has remained paused as the organizations have so far refused to provide all the requested information,” according to Franny White at OHA.
Asante attorney Kristen Roy refutes the characterization by the OHA claiming its requests for information “burdensome and intrusive” in a letter sent to the Health Authority earlier this month. She states, “Asante has submitted hundreds of pages of documents in response to over 100 questions over many months. The process is now stuck…” She requests that the Health Authority immediately approve the transaction and says, “Asante views this situation as unfortunate.”
Asante originally requested an emergency exemption to expedite the purchase of the Surgery Center, and that process continues, but without the financial records, the Oregon Health Authority states it cannot move forward.
The OHA has two options: it could either grant the exemption, which would mean no further review and push the process forward more quickly, or it could deny the request and continue its review. If the Health Authority grants the exemption, it would no longer be able to place guardrails on the transaction or conduct follow-up reviews.
Under the emergency exemption request, OHA will review the financial records and determine whether the transaction meets the qualification conditions. The Health Authority says it “will move as quickly as possible while also ensuring it has the complete information needed to make an informed decision.”
This is the third emergency exemption request since the legislature implemented the process. So far, one emergency exemption has been granted, and one has been denied.
Meantime, criticism regarding the hospital’s lack of transparency continues to emerge within the Ashland community regarding its outreach. A series of “roundtable” discussions denied entry to the press and to some residents. A group calling itself “Save Our Ashland Community Hospital” reports that it has frequently been denied access to information and been accused of releasing “misinformation,” according to the group’s founders.
According to the group, it’s unclear when the hospital is scheduled to close. The original date was the end of April, but now it may be as late as June. The group also states that the hospital and the city have offered no comment on whether Asante will reimburse the City of Ashland the $4 million it agreed to under a contract should it ever close the hospital’s services, which make it a “full general hospital.”
Asante is facing numerous legal challenges, including a lawsuit by the nurses’ union for back pay and roughly half a million dollars in lawsuits due to a nurse allegedly exchanging fentanyl with contaminated water in patient IV’s at their Medford hospital.
The Oregon Health Authority urges the public to submit comments via email at hcmo.info@oha.oregon.gov or to complete the online public comment form. It also accepts voice mail at 503-945-6161. (SOURCE)
The City of Ashland would like to inform residents that environmental cleanup work at the former Union Pacific Railroad property, a 16-acre vacant former railyard located north of A Street adjacent to the railroad tracks, is scheduled to begin in late April and continue through June.
This voluntary cleanup is being conducted under the jurisdiction of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality in accordance with an approved remediation plan. Equipment is expected to mobilize on site in late April, followed by site preparation and excavation activities. Cleanup activities will be managed by Jacobs on behalf of Union Pacific Railroad, with work carried out by qualified environmental contractors.
This cleanup represents an important step in addressing long-standing environmental conditions on a large, underutilized property, helping prepare the site for future redevelopment while protecting public health and the environment.
Residents interested in learning more may visit the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s dedicated Ashland Rail Yard project webpage:
http://oregon.gov/…/Pages/Ashland-Railroad-Yard.aspx.
For questions about the cleanup activities, residents may contact the project manager, Michael Niemet with Jacobs at michael.niemet@jacobs.com, or reach Union Pacific Railroad through their media relations line at 402 544 5034.
The Rogue Valley Peace Choir has inspired audiences to standing ovations this season with powerful messages of peace, social justice, and caretaking the Earth.
Now, it promises singing, dancing, and wildly engaging percussive flourishes during the final concerts of the the choir’s 23rd season. With these performances — passionately directed by Rob Griswell-Lowry and skillfully accompanied by Dr. Mikiko Petrucelli — the nearly 100-member choir also invites the community to “be the change we want to see in the world.”
The choir will perform at the United Church of Christ, 1801 E. Jackson St., Medford, at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 15. Donations at this concert will benefit the Northwest Seasonal Workers Association.
The choir will perform the same repetoire at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, at the First United Methodist Church, 175 N. Main St., Ashland.
Early arrival at both venues is recommended as seats are expected to fill quickly. A suggested donation of $20 is gratefully accepted, but not required.
The concerts’ theme comes from the title of the song Be the Change. The song’s lyrics revolve around the idea that we can’t look outside ourselves for change, but must embody the changes we want to see in the world.
The song quotes the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr., who said, “Darkness does not drive out the darkness, only light can do that. Hatred does not drive out the hatred, only love can do that.”
“As a choir,” says Griswell-Lowry, “we sing truths like these to remind ourselves, and all who hear our songs, that the responsibility for creating a world worth living in belongs to all of us.
“We’ve all heard that the pen is mightier than the sword,” he adds, “As singers in our choral community, we also know that the power of the pen — of words and ideas — is amplified and enhanced by the music that makes songs. When the Peace Choir shares its songs with our community, we not only share our hope for a better world, we help listeners find — or rediscover — their own hope.”
Songs for the choir’s repertoire are chosen by choir members themselves to express these themes in heart-felt and thoughtful ways. Choir members continue to be a part of the growing movement that recognizes how pro-actively and collectively we can make a difference on many fronts: we can shed light on injustice, we can support an end to wars, and we can take care of our Earth and each other when we work together.
See more about the Rogue Valley Peace Choir.
Britt Music & Arts Festival — Tickets On Sale!
Set your alarms and let’s get excited for SUMMER 2026
𝗪𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟬 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀? 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 – 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟯𝟬𝘁𝗵!!
Pacific Crest Bus Lines Sets May 1st Launch For Eugene-Medford Route
Pacific Crest Bus Lines says its new Eugene-to-Medford route serving Roseburg will launch May 1. Tickets are now available, with fares from Roseburg listed at $18 to Eugene Amtrak, $22 to Grants Pass, and $27 to Medford.
Pacific Crest Bus Lines says its new Eugene-to-Medford route is officially set to launch May 1, bringing daily intercity bus service to communities along the Interstate 5 corridor, including Roseburg.
The company announced that tickets are now available for purchase, including seats on the route’s first ride. The new service will connect Eugene, Cottage Grove, Sutherlin, Roseburg, Canyonville, Grants Pass, and Medford.
The service was previously expected to begin in April, but Pacific Crest Bus Lines now says the route will launch May 1st.
Pacific Crest Bus Lines said riders can book trips through the company’s website. In a message from the company, Pacific Crest said it expects strong interest in the new service and encouraged riders to book early to secure a seat.
The route is expected to give Douglas County travelers another option for regional transportation, including connections to Eugene, Medford, Grants Pass, and other communities along I-5.
— Pacific Crest Bus Lines provided fare information for both southbound and northbound trips on the new Eugene-to-Medford route.
Fares vary depending on where riders board and exit the bus. From Roseburg, listed fares include $6 to Sutherlin, $13 to Cottage Grove, $18 to Eugene Amtrak, $9 to Canyonville, $22 to Grants Pass, and $27 to Medford.
Full-route fares between Eugene Amtrak and Medford are listed at $44.
Northbound Fares
Southbound Fares
Riders should check Pacific Crest Bus Lines directly for the latest stop information, schedules, ticket availability, and any changes before traveling. Tickets and additional information are available through Pacific Crest Bus Lines at pacificcrestbuslines.net.
Overnight paving work begins April 26 on Highway 99 between Coleman Creek and West Glenwood Drive.
The Oregon Department of Transportation says crews will work through April 30. Drivers should expect lane closures, flaggers and delays during construction hours.
Local access will remain open, but short-term disruptions and construction noise are expected. ODOT is asking drivers to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes to keep workers safe in the work zone.
Jackson County Water Supply/Irrigation Season Update
As you may have heard, the Jackson County Commissioners have asked the Governor to declare a drought for Jackson County. We had an extremely dry winter with little snow which now forces us to use our water that was carried over from the 2025 season. Without this carryover, we would be looking at an extremely short irrigation season. We need to use water as efficiently as possible this year to carryover as much reserve as possible. We never know if the upcoming winter will provide adequate water for next season.
We do not currently have a firm start date for the irrigation season but are looking to start water deliveries as early as May 4th if there is no precipitation, or May 11th if we receive more precipitation to delay the start. The earlier we start, the earlier we will end the season.
𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗼𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗚𝗶𝗿𝗹𝘀 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽!
This event is 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲, but an application is required. Deadline to apply is June 5.
https://www.medfordoregon.gov/…/Registration-Open-for…
Applications are open for the 2026 Rogue Girls Fire Camp! 
U.S. Forest Service – Umpqua National Forest Seeks Campground Hosts
Join them on Tuesday evenings for 5 weeks for FREE Community Concerts beginning June 16th through July 14th, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the picturesque Riverside Park.
Make a night of it! Bring the family for an evening of great music, delicious food, dancing, and fun for all ages. This family-friendly event features:
- Local Food Trucks: Savor a variety of culinary delights from our food truck partners.
- Activities & giveaways: There are always fun offerings for kids.
- Vendor Booths: Explore a diverse range of goods and services from local vendors.
- Wild River’s Tap Trailer: Enjoy refreshing beverages from a beloved local brewery.
The Chamber is pleased to announce that they will be in the same location as last year near the Pavilion. This spot offers plenty of shade and convenient access to parking. They encourage attendees to park in the McKinny lot across from the 6th street park entrance and safely utilize the walking path under the bridge.
The Chamber relies on the generosity of partners, supporters, and volunteers to continue offering this FREE gift to the community. If you are interested in sponsoring, there are many levels to accommodate any budget. Your support helps us maintain the tradition of community concerts and promotes a vibrant local culture.
Without further ado, they are thrilled to present the 2026 Line-Up for our upcoming concert series! This year’s selection promises an exciting mix of both renowned artists and local talent, ensuring a lasting impression on all who hear them.
2026 LINE-UP
June 16th – Gunstock RED
Strap in and get ready for a wild ride with Gunstock Red. This band’s music is a roller-coaster, taking listeners on a journey through southern rock, funk and everything in between. With a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh, their music pays homage to a wide range of music. GSR’s dynamic stage presence and infectious energy make them a standout act leaving a lasting impression on all who hear them.
June 23rd – Simple Dreams Oregon
Everything began with Simple Dreams Oregon – Ronstadt’s greatest hits, their signature full band musical tribute. A rich, emotional journey through Linda Ronstadt most beloved music, each performance is a love letter to an era of unmatched songwriting – delivered with powerhouse vocals, soaring, harmonies, and a band that plays with both passion and precision. It’s more than a concert. It’s a revival of spirit.
June 30th – Pozitronics
Not just a band—they’re a musical time machine that electrifies every event with an unparalleled song arsenal spanning the decades. From James Brown’s soulful grooves to Dua Lipa’s modern beats, from Beatles classic rock to Michael Jackson pop, they seamlessly flow through genres, curating pure musical energy that transforms any space into an unstoppable dance floor. With professional precision and infectious passion, Pozitronics doesn’t just play music—they create unforgettable experiences that keep every crowd moving from the first note to the last call.
July 7th – Evening Shades
The Evening Shades is an indie/alternative rock band based in southern Oregon. With a modern, yet nostalgic sound, the band is known for their high energy, dynamic live shows. From driving, angsty rock anthems to stripped down, introspective and cheeky love songs, Evening Shades might be your new favorite band.
July 14th – The John Dough Boys
The John Dough Boys are a ruckus-including 5-piece string band formed in Southern Oregon. East met west, punk met bluegrass, and rock met folk, giving birth to a host of fast paced, foot stomping songs about women, beer and bad decisions. The lineup includes upright slap bass, drums, fiddle, guitar and banjo. Their aggressive live sound is infectious and is sure to leave anyone who witnesses it wanting more!
Join the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce as they honor four decades of music, community, and joy in Grants Pass. Looking forward to celebrating this milestone with you!
𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆: 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 
Southern Oregon Goodwill — We are hiring for our new North Medford store, opening May 14th!
New Blog: PIER Grant Round 2 Now Open! Read the full blog here:
Eligibility details Grant uses (up to $15,000) Important deadlines What support is available to help you apply
Sharing for our friends at Salvation Army
Help Fill Our Food Pantry – Your Donations Make a Difference! Hunger is a reality for many in our community, but together, we can make a change! Our food pantry is in need of non-perishable food items to help families struggling to put meals on the table. Most Needed Items: Canned vegetables & fruits Rice & pasta Peanut butter & jelly Cereal & oatmeal Soup & canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans) Drop-off Location: 922 N. Central Avenue Medford, OR 97501 Hours: 9am-3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Every can, box, and bag of food makes a difference in someone’s life. Let’s come together to fight hunger—because no one should go to bed hungry. .
Rogue Valley Humane Society
Our Community Food Bank exists to help folks who need an extra helping hand during a difficult month to feed their pets. Our program has a limited budget and so we rely on generous members of our community to donate some of these goods to continue to help assist our community. In 2023 we fed an average of 700 pets a month! This equates to approximately 70 – 40lb bags of food each month! Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.
CSO Case 24-4928 PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives and Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel continue to search for a woman missing out of Prospect, Ore. since September 2024.
Deenah Padgett, 69, was reported missing on Sunday, September 8, 2024. She was last seen camping in the Prospect area on September 4, 2024. She is described as a white woman with brownish-red, partially gray hair, standing 4’8” tall and weighing 90-100 lbs. JCSO detectives and SAR personnel have searched the area extensively and are looking for the public’s help. If you see Deenah or know her whereabouts, immediately call ECSO Dispatch at (541) 776-7206 and reference case 24-4928. If you have any information that might help the investigation, call Detective Friend at (541) 864-8774.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is asking for help identifying the owner a motorhome. It could be associated with a missing person from the Prospect area. JCSO says 68-year-old Deenah Padgett has been missing since August 30 from Prospect, described as a white woman, 4’ 8” tall, weighing approximately 95 pounds with brownish red/greying hair. JCSO issued an advisory this weekend asking anyone with information about the owner of the pictured motor home or Padgett’s whereabouts to call Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatch non-emergency phone number at 541-776-7206.
David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active
The Ashland Police Department’s investigation into the murder of David Grubbs on November 19, 2011 remains open and active. Recently two new detectives have been assigned to look into new leads that have come in.
This case remains important to David’s family, the community, and the Ashland Police Department. As detectives continue to pursue these new leads, anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to the Ashland Police Department at 541-488-2211. The reward for information leading to an arrest on this case remains at over $21,000.
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
Fauna Frey Vanished Without A Trace In Josephine County
It’s been more than five years since the disappearance of a Lane County Woman, who was last seen in Grants Pass. Back in June of 2020, Fauna Frey disappeared. Police said the 45-year-old left her home in Dexter to drive to Grants Pass to visit her brother’s friend after her brother had recently passed away. The last place she was seen was at the Big 5 in Grants Pass. Investigators said her car was found in the Galice area months later. The circumstances of Fauna’s disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved. Fauna’s disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, including Nowhere to be Found, Here One Minute, Gone the Next, and Detective Perspective, each trying to fill the silence left by law enforcement. New listeners continue to discover her story, hoping a fresh set of eyes or a single loose memory might be the key to finding Fauna.
Have Information on Fauna Frey? Please Speak Up!
If you know anything, no matter how small, please contact:
- Josephine County Sheriff’s Office
- Tip line: (541) 359-5638
- Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com
Currrently there is a $50,000 CASH REWARD for information leading to the location of Fauna Frey. LARGE CASH REWARDS are being offered for any other relevant information, such as any objects that could be identified as Fauna’s, i.e. her wallet, keys, or Indian/Buffalo .999 silver bullion coins. Find Fauna Frey Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132
You can find food in your community at this link
Our network of food banks and pantries provides free food and groceries across Oregon. No proof of income or documentation required.
https://www.oregonfoodbank.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 Map to 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.
4/29/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today
Oregon governor signs housing bills addressing affordability, urban growth boundaries
Oregon’s new housing laws let cities expand urban growth boundaries under requirements and offer loans for developers willing to build housing units
Six new Oregon housing laws aim to make it easier for cities and developers to build housing and prioritize affordable housing for families and older Oregonians.
Gov. Tina Kotek, local elected officials and state legislators gathered at Woodburn’s city hall Wednesday to celebrate the new laws, which include one to clear the way for Woodburn to add more housing outside of current city limits.
State economists say Oregon has to build 29,500 new homes a year, mostly in the Portland region and Willamette Valley, if it wants to overcome its housing shortage, while Kotek set — but has yet to meet — a more ambitious goal of 36,000 homes per year. Since the start of her administration, Oregon has financed or added 17,000 housing units with state support and has taken action to add 50,000 future housing units, Kotek said Wednesday.
Woodburn Mayor Frank Lonergan introduced Kotek, saying it was a special day because Kotek signed House Bill 4035, which modifies a 2024 law that lets eligible cities make a one-time urban growth boundary expansion. The law will allow Woodburn to oversee its own 120-acre expansion.
Similarly, Kotek, state lawmakers and housing advocates celebrated the signing of House Bill 4082. It’s a one-time expansion of urban growth boundary rules, with the condition that additional land be used for manufactured housing, prefabricated structures, manufactured dwelling parks or for housing specifically for people 55 years old and older. It lets cities with populations of 25,000 or more to bring in 100 additional acres for development, and those with smaller populations to bring in up to 50.
“To all the Oregonians who are struggling to find affordable housing right now, all the folks who are working on this, we see you,” Kotek said. “We are working for you. I’m working for you. We want to make sure that everyone in the state has a safe, stable, affordable place to call home.”
Three of the new housing laws Kotek signed also strengthen state loan programs to preserve and build affordable housing, including Senate Bill 1567, which authorizes the Oregon Housing and Community Services Department to establish a $20 million loan fund that will offer subsidized loans to developers willing to build housing units affordable to residents at different levels of income.
House Bill 4036 also establishes the Housing Opportunity, Longevity and Durability Fund, a new program funded through the same bond money the state uses to acquire, repair or furnish state-owned property. The new fund would help preserve existing affordable housing that’s at risk of being lost because of expiring federal or local affordability restrictions, financial distress or physical rehabilitation needs.
“With existing federal funding for affordable housing under attack, it’s critical for Oregon to find cost effective ways to build homes available to Oregonians at different income levels,” said Sen. Khanh Phạm, D-Portland.
And House Bill 4037, an omnibus bill addressing a range of housing issues, modifies the state loan program to expand low and moderate-income housing production, strengthens state enforcement of local housing laws and clarifies that surplus state-owned land should be prioritized for housing development. The bill cuts red tape for new housing, Kotek said, by expanding the ability for developers to self-certify that building plans meet requirements and reducing notice and public hearing requirements for certain housing projects.
Elected officials and Kotek also celebrated House Bill 4128, which gives families, individuals and small real estate businesses a 90-day head start before private equity firms can purchase single-family homes for sale in Oregon.
“I think the lineup of bills today is pretty reflective of the work that we have to do,” said Rep. Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, the chair of the House Housing and Homelessness Committee. “It is not just one solution to solve the housing problem in the state of Oregon. Really, we have to hit and address every point on the continuum of development.”
Kotek signed most of the housing bills in late March, according to the state’s legislative information website. Wednesday’s event was a ceremonial celebration of their passage into law. (SOURCE)
Former U.S. Postal Service Employee Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Mail
A Burns, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for repeatedly stealing mail while working as a U.S. Postal Service employee at the Hines, Oregon Post Office.
Patrick Wright, 44, was sentenced to 45 days in federal prison and two years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay over $2000 in restitution.
According to court documents, from January 2024 through June 2024, while working as a U.S. Postal Service employee, Wright opened mail and stole the contents, including money and gift cards.
On April 17, 2025, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a one-count indictment charging Wright with theft of mail by a postal employee.
Wright pleaded guilty today to Count One.
U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey S. Sweet.
Oregonians will soon have the ability to take legal action against private companies that sell or misuse data obtained from license plate-reading cameras, thanks to a new state law.
Senate Bill 1516, which was signed by Governor Tina Kotek on March 31, took effect immediately due to an emergency provision included by lawmakers.
This 16-page legislation is part of a broader public safety package that garnered bipartisan support, yet it is particularly notable for its stringent regulations on the use of automated license plate reading technology and the street cameras associated with it.
While law enforcement has utilized this technology to disrupt criminal activities, its deployment has faced heightened scrutiny, especially in light of intensified federal immigration enforcement efforts.
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has finally achieved profitability after enduring years of financial losses, yet the pressure to generate revenue continues to escalate within the state’s sole academic medical center.
Following a staggering loss of over $130 million in the previous fiscal year, OHSU reported a $65 million operating gain in the last nine months, placing the institution approximately $103 million ahead of its budget.
This financial turnaround is attributed to an increase in complex cases requiring specialized care, which yield higher reimbursements and align with OHSU’s core competencies that many other Oregon hospitals lack. However, the institution faced significant financial challenges during and after the pandemic, including rising labor costs due to wage increases and staffing shortages, inflation-driven supply price hikes, and discharge delays that restricted patient admissions.
Additionally, OHSU has navigated various controversies, including leadership changes and ongoing discussions regarding its primate research center.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding political campaigns that placing signs within highway rights of way is prohibited.
ODOT regularly removes signs that are improperly positioned, as they can distract drivers, pose safety risks, and obstruct official road messages. Any campaign signs found in violation are taken down and stored at a nearby ODOT district maintenance office for a period of 30 days or until they are retrieved. While signs are permitted on private property visible from the highway, they must adhere to specific regulations, including a maximum size of 12 square feet.
Oregon is exploring innovative technology to monitor endangered bird species in its state forests, shifting from traditional nighttime surveys that require biologists to navigate challenging terrain in darkness.
The Oregon Department of Forestry has implemented Autonomous Recording Units to track northern spotted owls and marbled murrelets, allowing for the automatic recording of bird calls over extended periods without the need for human presence in the forest.
In contrast, conventional surveys are conducted only once per site at night, necessitating biologists to drive along unlit gravel roads and hike into dense, trail-less forests, often enduring hours of difficult conditions, including rain.
This outdated approach is becoming increasingly ineffective as barred owls encroach on the habitat of spotted owls, which are now found at higher elevations and are less likely to respond to calls, as doing so risks revealing their location to the competing species.
Oregon Prescription Drug Affordability Board to host community forums to hear how prescription drug prices affect Oregonians
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 three online forums are:
- Tuesday, April 28, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 161 635 9753 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)
- 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 four in-person forums are:
- Tuesday, May 5, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Salem at the Salem Public Library, 585 Liberty St. SE
- Wednesday, May 6, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Redmond at the Redmond Public Library, 817 SW Deschutes Ave.
- 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.
Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation’s Vice Chairman Brad Parry Named Inaugural Winner of Schnitzer Prize of the West
Leading one of the largest ecological and cultural restoration projects in the American West, Parry receives the pre-eminent prize awarding collaboration in solving environmental challenges in the region
Bend, OR — April 29, 2026 — The inaugural Schnitzer Prize of the West was awarded to Brad Parry, the Vice Chairman of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation in Ogden, UT and leader of the Wuda Ogwa Cultural and Land Restoration Project.The $50,000 award granted by the High Desert Museum in Bend, OR is the first of its kind in the American West, celebrating and honoring uncommon collaboration and innovation in solving the legacy challenges of the region. Parry will receive the prize during a ceremony in Portland, OR on May 16, 2026.
Parry was awarded for his leadership transforming the site of the 1863 Bear River Massacre in Preston, Idaho, where more than 400 tribal members were killed in one of the deadliest acts of violence against Native Americans in U.S. history, into a place of ecological and cultural healing. When the Tribe purchased the 350-acre site from private owners in 2018, it also became an opportunity to bring wider awareness to a long-overlooked piece of history.
“How we view the restoration is a project not just of restoring the land, but restoring the spirit of forgiveness, and that starts with a small seed. We bring volunteers that come out to plant those seeds, and when they plant it, they bring new friends and family with them. Restoration brings brightness, hope, resilience, and remembrance, but most of all, it brings forgiveness of the past to continue forward in the future. And that’s what this project is,” says Rios Pacheco, Northwestern Shoshone spiritual leader.
Through his collaborations with Tribal members, local farmers and ranchers, academics, state and local governments, and community groups, Parry has built one of the most efficient models of watershed restoration in the American West. Despite scarce resources, ongoing institutional and local tensions, and financial restraints, Parry’s work is successfully restoring the land to its natural state by putting the creek back in its historic path and removing what didn’t belong. Under his leadership, the project is removing invasive species, planting more than 70,000 native plants, restoring wetlands, and freeing the flow of a Bear River tributary. Water is now able to flow more freely downstream, benefitting local farmers, neighboring communities, and ultimately the Great Salt Lake—returning an estimated 10,000 acre-feet of water annually to the lake, which is in its own ecological crisis due to a climate-driven drought. Also central to the restoration project is Parry’s vision for a Cultural Interpretive Center, which will memorialize the site’s history as a landmark to the Northwestern Shoshone’s resilience and their long journey to federal recognition.
“Brad’s visionary leadership is critical to this project’s success. He’s deeply engaged with local biologists, ecologists, and engineers, as well as community groups like the Youth Coalition for Great Salt Lake. He understands that this work is intersectional, and he’s brought together a coalition of stakeholders to make this ambitious project possible,” says Katie Newburn, Education Director of FRIENDS of Great Salt Lake.
Launched in partnership with Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold and Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, the inaugural Schnitzer Prize of the West celebrates Parry, his uncommon collaborations, and his innovative response to the urgent issues of sovereignty, ecological restoration, and water security. As the 2026 Prize Winner, Parry’s work illustrates a model for others across the region and the nation to follow.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be the inaugural recipient of the Schnitzer Prize of the West, a recognition I proudly accept on behalf of the Wuda Ogwa project. This achievement embodies the resilience and unity of our Tribe, our people, and our community, building upon the legacy of those who came before us. At its heart, this work is driven by a steadfast commitment to caring for our land, revitalizing our connection to history and culture, and building bridges with other communities—an essential responsibility we must uphold for our future generations,” said Schnitzer Prize of the West 2026 Winner Brad Parry.
“The Schnitzer Prize of the West celebrates remarkable individuals working together collaboratively to compromise and forge policies that benefit us all, and not just for us and our children, but generations to come,” said Jordan D. Schnitzer, President of Schnitzer Properties and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation.
Parry’s nomination was selected by an esteemed panel of 13 advisors with deep backgrounds in tribal leadership, ranching and farming, water policy and river restoration, and prominent academic centers focused on the American West. The panel evaluated nearly 100 nominations across 12 states.
Among the nominations, the Advisory Committee also recognized four finalists—Amy Bowers Cordalis, Talent, OR; Kelley Delpit, Bend, OR; Julie Rentner, Chico, CA;and Laura Van Riper, Bend, OR—who will each receive a $2,500 cash prize during the Portland ceremony on May 16. More information on the selection committee and finalists are available on the High Desert Museum’s website.
Administered through the High Desert Museum, the Schnitzer Prize of the West will begin accepting new nominations in May 2026. Nominations for consideration for the 2027 Prize must be received by December 31, 2026 to be eligible. Nominees not selected in one cycle remain eligible in future cycles.
For more information on the Schnitzer Prize of the West, nominations, eligibility, and award cycles, please visit highdesertmuseum.org/schnitzer-prize.
About Schnitzer Prize of the West 2026 Winner Brad Parry — Brad Parry is the Vice Chairman for the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation, where he also serves as the Tribe’s natural resource officer, currently managing and directing the Wuda Ogwa restoration project. He is actively involved as a member of the Weber River Commission, the Bear River Commission, the Jordan River Commission, the Great Salt Lake Advisory, and the University of Utah’s Board for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement. Brad spent over 16 years with the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation, focusing on water quality improvement and Colorado River Basin salinity control. Brad spent his formative years in Syracuse, Utah, near the Great Salt Lake, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Speech Communication from the University of Utah. In his spare time, he enjoys golf, fishing, music, spending time with his family, and teaching about his cultural heritage.
About Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation — Jordan Schnitzer has a vibrant legacy supporting the High Desert Museum. He is the visionary and sponsor of the Schnitzer Prize of the West.
Through the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, Jordan carries on the legacy of his late parents and their belief that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, the CARE Foundation and its leaders have given over $300 million to fund hundreds of nonprofit projects that touch lives and enrich communities.
Schnitzer is also a prominent West Coast businessman. He is President and CEO of Schnitzer Properties, one of the West Coast’s Top 10 private real estate owners with offices in six Western states. Schnitzer is also an ARTnews Top 200 Art Collector globally and shares his vast contemporary art collections at no charge to museums and institutions and supports accompanying programming, educational opportunities and publications.
About the High Desert Museum — The High Desert Museum opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
America 250 Oregon Commission Announces State Submission to National America250 Time Capsule
On July 4, 2026, America250 will bury the Semiquincentennial Time Capsule within Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, PA. The stainless-steel cylinder, designed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is designed to safely store commemorative objects for 250 years until the capsule’s opening in 2276.
Each state was asked to contribute a submission that represents its people, stories, and values at this historic moment. In February, the America 250 Oregon Commission invited the public to share their ideas for what Oregon should submit to the time capsule, with suggestions ranging from creative works, written reflections, and symbolic objects. Each state’s submission must fit within a 6″ x 5″ x 2″ archival storage box or consist of a single page of archival paper no larger than 8.5″ x 11″.
The Commission is pleased to announce that Oregon’s chosen submission is a pin handcrafted by acclaimed Native American artist Lillian Pitt (Warm Springs, Wasco, and Yakama). She is widely known for her sculpting and mixed media artistry, which focuses on 12,000 years of Native American history and traditions of the Columbia River region. Her works have been exhibited globally and can be found in Oregon at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland State University, and the Museum at Warm Springs.
The pin that was selected is She Who Watches, Pitt’s depiction of a famous petroglyph and pictograph that is perched high on a mountain visible from her ancestral village. Under the oral traditions of tribes of the Columbia River region, She Who Watches represents Tsagaglalal, a wise and powerful chief who was transformed to stone, where she continues to keep vigil over her people and the Columbia River.
“The inclusion of this pin from one of Oregon’s most celebrated Indigenous artists reminds us that Oregon’s history and America’s history is much longer than 250 or 500 years,” said America 250 Oregon Commission Chair Kerry Tymchuk.
“I am honored that my work will be included in this time capsule and am heartened to know that when it is opened in 250 years, people will be reminded of those who have made this land their home since time immemorial,” said Lillian Pitt.
Lillian Pitt was born on the Warm Springs Reservation in 1944 and moved to Portland in the early 1960s, where she resides today. She has received many honors, including the Oregon History Makers Award from the Oregon Historical Society. The Ford Family Foundation recently named Pitt as the inaugural recipient of the 1905 Legacy Award, which will be presented every five years to an active Oregon artist who has been producing art for at least 20 years.
About the America 250 Oregon Commission
The America 250 Oregon Commission was created through Senate Bill 1531, which was signed into law by Governor Tina Kotek on March 27, 2024. Chaired by the Oregon Historical Society’s executive director, Kerry Tymchuk, the mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.
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.
Safe Digging Month Reminds Oregonians to Contact 811 Before Digging
In recognition of National Safe Digging Month, the Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC), Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), and Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) remind Oregonians to contact 811 before starting projects that involves digging.
Whether a professional contractor or do-it-yourselfer, all play an important role in preventing damage to underground utilities. Contacting Oregon 811 before you dig helps prevent serious injuries and avoid costly damage to essential utility services. There are three easy steps to safe digging in Oregon:
- Submit a locate request at least two business days before digging at Oregon811.com or by calling 811
- Wait for utility crews to mark the underground lines
- Dig carefully
After a locate request is submitted, the OUNC notifies the utility companies that provide service to the area. Utility crews then visit the site and mark the approximate location of the underground lines, pipes, and cables able to be located, at no cost to the homeowner or contractor.
Meanwhile, employers must follow Oregon OSHA requirements to protect workers against the potential hazards of underground utilities. Those requirements include:
- Notifying OUNC of the proposed area of excavations at least two working days before starting an excavation.
- Estimating the location of utilities before opening or extending an excavation.
- Determining by safe and acceptable means the exact location of the estimated utility installations when excavation activities approach them.
- While excavations are open, underground installations must be protected, supported, or removed as necessary to safeguard employees.
Oregon OSHA offers employers free consultations – no fault, no citations, no penalties – to improve workplace health and safety programs and practices. It also offers free technical help with understanding and applying workplace safety rules.
Most utility line strikes happen during the warmer months, when construction and landscaping activity increases. National data shows that in 2024, an estimated 196,977 instances of damage occurred across the country, and 17 percent were caused by failing to contact 811.
For more information or to submit a locate request, visit Oregon811.com or call 811.
Oregon to Honor Fallen Law Enforcement Officers May 5, 2026
Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 5 at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.
The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.
The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations.
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
Find the mental health support you need
Click to see all resources https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/find-the-mental-health-support-you-need/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline. It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com 
Call us at 5 41-363-7503 Or email us at Info@RogueValleyMagazine.com