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, July 15, 2026
Rogue Valley Weather
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
East Evans Creek Fire – Jackson County
Jul 15 at 7:11 AM —- 18900 Block of E Evans Creek Rd, Approx. 14 Miles Northeast of Rogue River
The fire is 7843.2 acres per the perimeter uploaded to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), which is visible on the Watch Duty map under the Active Fire Perimeters map layer.
REEL: facebook.com/reel/1319670720328299/?s=single_unit
Note: Fire perimeters are preliminary and indicate general burn area but do not reflect structure protection efforts by firefighters. A structure within a fire perimeter may not be damaged or destroyed.
There is a community meeting planned for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. to provide an update for the fire.
In-Person: Shady Cove School Gym, 100 Cleveland St, Shady Cove, OR 97539 – Stream online via Facebook.com/ODFSouthwest
Firefighters on the East Evans Creek Fire took advantage of cooler conditions during the morning hours to make steady progress, establishing, strengthening, and tying sections of line together, improving access, and coordinating suppression efforts with numerous aircraft. This work allowed crews to gain ground ahead of challenging afternoon conditions.
As temperatures climbed, relative humidity dropped, the atmosphere became increasingly unstable, and fire behavior intensified. The thunderstorms predicted for the area remained well south and east of the fire; however, the absence of the forecasted monsoonal moisture contributed to lower relative humidity throughout the day, allowing fuels to remain critically dry and increasing the potential for heightened fire activity. In the late afternoon, conditions became more unstable, resulting in rapid changes in fire intensity.
Two of the spot fires identified during last night’s infrared flight have been mostly lined; however, one remains challenging due to difficult access and rugged terrain. This evening, a new spot fire east of the main fire perimeter prompted additional evacuations, with the latest evacuation information provided below. Crews are using both aircraft and heavy equipment to support suppression efforts in the area while continuing to improve access and strengthen control lines.
This evening, divisions along the northern half of the fire are experiencing extreme fire behavior, including running, torching, and spotting, which is expected to continue into the early morning hours. This remains a terrain- and fuel-driven fire, with steep slopes and heavy fuels continuing to challenge suppression efforts. Firefighters will continue working through the night to cool and slow fire growth, aggressively engaging with the fire when possible, and taking advantage of opportunities to establish and expand fireline.
Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) structural resources remain in place, working alongside wildland firefighters to protect homes and critical infrastructure. OSFM crews are completing full structure preparation in threatened areas, improving the defensibility of homes and buildings by removing combustible materials, identifying hazards, developing structural protection plans, and installing hose lays to support these efforts.
Aviation resources continued to play a critical role throughout the day and into the evening, supporting ground operations by cooling active fire areas, slowing fire spread, suppressing spot fires, and assisting crews working in difficult terrain. Additional resources continue to arrive on the fire and are being rapidly integrated into the response, strengthening suppression efforts in priority areas of the fire.
Tomorrow, firefighters will continue working to tie existing control lines together and strengthen containment. Although temperatures are expected to be slightly cooler, the area remains critically dry, and any new fire starts have the potential to experience rapid growth under current fuel conditions. https://app.watchduty.org/i/107705
Oregon Department of Forestry Sends Incident Management Team to a Wildfire for the First Time this Year on the East Evans Creek Fire Which is Now Largest Fire in Oregon
– For the first time this year, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has ordered a Complex Incident Management Team to manage a wildfire. The team will coordinate additional personnel and equipment assigned to the incident. This will allow ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters to return to initial attack responsibilities across the District, which protects 1.8 million acres in Jackson and Josephine counties.
Friday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize additional resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the first time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.
The East Evans Creek Fire has quickly become the region’s most significant wildfire emergency of the summer, expanding from a small spark Friday afternoon into a fast moving incident that has forced evacuations, closed major roadways, and prompted one of Oregon’s largest coordinated firefighting responses this fire season. As flames continue burning through steep terrain, emergency officials are urging residents throughout Southern Oregon to remain vigilant as weather conditions and difficult topography continue to challenge suppression efforts.
The East Evans Fire is located approximately 26 miles northeast of Medford. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has issued Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices for residents in the area, with Level 3 meaning Leave Now. The public is urged to avoid the area due to multiple road closures and heavy firefighting traffic and should continue to follow evacuation information and updates from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
The fire was reported at 2:41 p.m. Friday on private land protected by ODF and has since spread onto Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. The fire is currently estimated at approximately 1,550 acres and remains active. Hot, dry conditions, combined with multiple spot fires, have been the primary drivers of the fire’s growth. These conditions continue to present some of the greatest challenges for firefighters.
Crews were successful in catching two spot fires earlier in the incident, but a third spot fire established itself, gained momentum, and contributed to the fire’s rapid growth, prompting the District’s request for a state Incident Management Team to assist.
Cause of the fire is currently under investigation. For the latest updates on the fire go to the ODF Southwest Oregon District Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ODFSouthwest/
ODF Southwest Oregon District – 𝙋𝙐𝘽𝙇𝙄𝘾 𝙐𝙎𝙀 𝙍𝙀𝙎𝙏𝙍𝙄𝘾𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉𝙎 𝘿𝙐𝙍𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙀 𝙎𝙀𝘼𝙎𝙊𝙉
All Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. This means that to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, fire restrictions may be in place where you live or at a destination you plan to visit or recreate.
Summer Lane Attempted Murder Josephine Co. Sheriff’s Office
DETAILS: On July 7, 2026, at 9:43 am, Deputies from the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the 900 block of Summer Lane in Grants Pass for a report of a missing person with suspicious circumstances. Upon the initial investigation, it was determined that Randall “Randy” Hecker was missing from his residence and perhaps in danger.
Detectives from the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police and Grants Pass Police Department responded to the scene and began their investigation. Investigators identified the suspect in this case as Israel Wytcherley who resides near the victim’s residence. Wytcherley was located and contacted by investigators at a separate location within the city of Grants Pass. Wytcherley was arrested and lodged in the Josephine County Jail on the above listed charges.
While this case is still under investigation, several details are not available for public release. Investigators are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Randy Hecker who has not been seen since the incident occurred on July 7th. Hecker is a 67-year-old white male who is 5’8″ and approximately 185 pounds. Hecker was last seen wearing blue/grey shorts, a light blue t-shirt and a backpack style sprayer similar to the one below. The backpack sprayer has not been located and is of interest.
Investigators discovered Wytcherley’s vehicle, a grey 2016 Chevy Silverado, was in the Galice area on the morning of July 7th, 2026. If anyone recalls seeing this vehicle on the morning of July 7th in the Merlin or Galice area, we ask that you contact the Sheriff’s Office.
Wycherley was originally arrested and lodged on the above charges. After further investigation, the charges were updated and a Josepine County Grand Jury indicted Wycherley on charges of Murder in the 2nd Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.
Semi Trailer Fire Incident Update – I-5 Exit 48 (Rogue River)
Medford City Manager Recruitment Underway
The City of Medford is seeking its next City Manager following Interim City Manager John Vial’s retirement at the conclusion of his contract in November.
Reporting directly to the Mayor and City Council, the City Manager serves as the City’s Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for leading all municipal operations. The position translates Council priorities into action, oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives, and ensures the efficient delivery of services to more than 90,000 residents.
Some of the key priorities for the next City Manager include:
- Continuing implementation of the Medford 2040 Vision and Council goals while aligning organizational resources and priorities.
- Leading downtown revitalization efforts, including Creekside Quarter, conference center development, housing opportunities, and business attraction initiatives.
- Supporting infrastructure investments, such as the Regional Water Reclamation Facility upgrade, the South Stage Road Interchange, and Transportation System Plan implementation.
- Building strong relationships throughout the community and region, serving as a visible, approachable leader who brings people together around common goals.
This is an opportunity for a strategic, relationship-focused leader who can build trust, align people around common goals, and guide a growing community through a period of progress and investment.
To view the recruitment brochure, click here. To learn more or apply, click here.
The Crater Lake Trolley season has officially commenced, and reservations are now open for guided, interactive tours around Oregon’s sole national park, Crater Lake.
Each tour accommodates up to 18 individuals, with the option for an additional six to eight walk-up guests. Ticket prices are set at $44 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and children, while those aged six and under can ride for free.
Group rates may also be offered. There are six tours scheduled daily, each lasting two hours, operating seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to arrive one hour prior to their scheduled time for check-in and boarding. The interactive nature of the tour includes a knowledgeable guide who provides insights into the park’s history, making it suitable for all ages. The trolley makes approximately six stops at scenic overlooks, allowing guests to take selfies, capture family portraits, or explore the surroundings.
According to TripAdvisor, these trolley tours are rated as the top attraction at the park, boasting an impressive 4.6-star rating based on 149 reviews.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza franchise operator has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as the pizza industry continues to face financial challenges.
Rogue Fare LLC has commenced bankruptcy proceedings. The company currently operates as a franchise operator of Medford, Oregon-based pizza chain called Mountain Mike’s Pizza.
The latest move comes as the broader pizza industry struggles to maintain a foothold amid declining sales, rising expenses, and other troubles.
Rogue Fare LLC has commenced bankruptcy proceedings. The company currently operates as a franchise operator of Medford, Oregon-based pizza chain called Mountain Mike’s Pizza.
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Belle Fiore Estate Winery and Chateau, one of Ashland’s most visible wine-country properties, has been listed for sale for the first time, putting a high-profile Rogue Valley winery, event venue, vineyard and private residence on the market as the region’s wine industry continues to navigate a changed post-pandemic economy.
The property, located off Dead Indian Memorial Road at 100 and 200 Belle Fiore Lane, is being marketed by Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Realty. The listing agents are Hunter Blackwell and Ryan Lamanna. Public listing information shows the combined estate being marketed at $26 million, though some online real estate feeds also show the commercial winery parcel separately.
The offering includes the winery and event property at 100 Belle Fiore Lane, with a 32-acre producing vineyard, a winery building of more than 27,000 square feet, tasting rooms, restaurant space, a ceremonial barrel room, ballroom, outdoor dining areas and commercial production facilities. Marketing materials also describe the property as having refrigerated wine storage and infrastructure for larger-scale winery operations.
The estate comes on the market at a time when winery properties are being evaluated in a more complicated business climate than the one that existed when Belle Fiore was developed. Rogue Valley wineries have benefited from the region’s growing reputation for diverse varietals and wine tourism. But they also have faced rising costs, changing consumer habits, wildfire smoke, labor pressures and a tasting-room business that has not fully returned to pre-pandemic patterns. READ MORE: https://ashland.news/belle-fiore-winery-and-estate-listed-for-sale/
Illinois Valley Fire District Receives Oregon State Fire Marshal 2026 Wildland Fire Season Staffing Grant
The Illinois Valley Fire District is proud to announce that we have once again been awarded the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Wildland Fire Season Staffing Grant in the amount of $35,000.
This marks the 4th consecutive year that IVFD has received this important funding, allowing us to provide additional staffing at Station 2 (Selma) during the 2026 wildfire season.
Established in 2022, the Wildland Fire Season Staffing Grant helps local fire agencies increase firefighter staffing during the most critical months of the year. The goal is simple: keep wildfires small and away from our communities. By providing additional personnel, agencies can respond quickly to emerging fires before they become larger, more costly incidents.
Beyond wildfire response, these staffing resources help ensure firefighters are available to respond to medical emergencies, traffic accidents, structure fires, and other emergencies throughout our district—ultimately helping save lives and protect property.
We would like to thank the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office for their continued investment in local fire protection and community safety. This funding strengthens our ability to protect the residents and visitors of the Illinois Valley during the height of wildfire season.
Together, we are building a safer and more resilient Illinois Valley.
Fire Chief Holmes
40 Modular Homes to Be Built in Phoenix to Replace Homes Lost in Almeda Fire
Oregon Housing and Community Services selected five projects to build 117 affordable homes using factory-produced housing methods across the state.
AGE+ and Blazer Modular Construction plan to use the funding to build 40 fully accessible, affordable homes for older adults in Phoenix. The project, Phoenix Commons, will replace housing lost in the Almeda Fire. The modular construction will reduce per-unit costs and cut the construction schedule by several months.
The initiative comes from House Bill 3145 passed in the 2025 Legislative Session. It will fund up to five factory-produced housing projects with Local Innovation and Fast Track set-aside funds totaling $25 million. Factory-produced housing, like modular homes, offers an alternative to traditional construction and can produce homes faster and at lower costs.
𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆! ACCESS is proud to announce the NEW location of the Talent Food Pantry at the 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿, located at 49 Talent Ave. in Talent.
Residents in Medford will soon receive energy generated by Oregon’s first floating solar panels through the state’s Community Solar Program.
More than 1,700 panels on floating platforms atop a Medford Irrigation District reservoir will generate power intended to cut costs for the district, the city and about 60 homes in Jackson County. Kyle Petrocine, program manager at the Energy Trust of Oregon, one of the administrators of Oregon’s Community Solar Program, said people can subscribe online to community solar projects across the state.
Customers pay for a subscription and receive credits on their utility bills, lowering overall costs. Petrocine said low-income subscribers can get discounted subscription rates and save up to 40% on their power bills. He said several similar projects are being considered in the Rogue Valley and other parts of Oregon.
A new 800 kW Community Solar Project is coming to Central Point, Oregon, in partnership with BEF and the Medford Irrigation District.
This unique project is one of Oregon’s first floating solar installations, featuring 1,776 solar panels on a reservoir in the Medford Irrigation District. By covering about 1.8 acres of water, the project will:
- Generate local, renewable energy for the community
- Improve water quality by shading the reservoir and reducing algae growth
- Reduce water loss from evaporation
60 residential subscriptions will be available for households in the Medford area, giving local families the chance to save on energy costs while supporting innovation in clean energy.
The project is expected to begin operation in Summer 2026.
Be part of this exciting milestone for Oregon — reserve your spot today and power your home with clean, local solar energy.
Medford Irrigation District Community Solar Subscription Example:
- Subscription Size: 5 kW
- Expected 1st year subscription generation: 7,545 kWh
- Expected Bill Credit: $782
- Expected Subscription Fee: $717
Expected First-year Net Savings: $65
Who’s Eligible?
To be eligible for the MID Community Solar Project Subscription, you must:
- Live within the Medford Irrigation District territory.
- Be a customer of Pacific Power.
Low-Income Subscribers
10% of the project’s energy is reserved for low-income households = low-income households can subscribe!
If you qualify, you’ll get special benefits and protections as a subscriber. You’ll have:
- no upfront costs
- no termination fees
- discounts on your subscription, and
- guaranteed savings on your energy bill.
Community solar is a large solar system that members of the community can join to share the benefits of the solar energy that’s generated. This is great for people who don’t want to install their own rooftop solar or who rent or live in apartments or condominiums. The energy generated by the Medford Irrigation District goes to the utility energy grid, and the value of that energy is shared by all subscribers in the form of credits on your utility bill. So you can feel good about supporting clean, renewable energy without paying the upfront costs of your own rooftop solar panels.
𝙉𝙊𝙒 𝙃𝙄𝙍𝙄𝙉𝙂: Customer Service Representative (CSR) for Rural Metro Fire – Josephine County in Grants Pass
City of Roseburg Government — Wondering where to get the facts about City projects, plans, decisions, events and upcoming meetings?
𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆: 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 
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.
Summer EBT is back to help feed Oregon children during summer break
The Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits (Summer EBT) program is returning in 2026 to help families buy groceries for school-aged children during summer break when they don’t have easy access to healthy meals.
Eligible families can receive a one-time payment of $120 for each child on an Oregon EBT card to buy food. Unused benefits can expire 122 days after they are issued.
Families will get benefits automatically on their Oregon EBT card if they have children between the ages of 6-18 and received one of the following at any time during the 2025-26 school year:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance
- Medicaid, if household income is below 185 percent of the federal poverty level
- Foster care services
Families also may automatically receive benefits if they have children who:
- Were determined by their school to have a status as migrant, houseless or runaway.
- Took part in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
- Attended a Head Start program that was part of the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program.
Families may need to apply if:
- Their household meets income requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.
- Their child attends a school that was part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).
Important Summer EBT dates:
- June 1, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center opens. Families can call 833-673-7328 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- June 4, 2026 – Benefits are expected to begin issuing to families who are automatically eligible.
- June 5, 2026 – The online application opens and applications begin processing.
- Sept. 1, 2026 – Application deadline.
- Sept. 25, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center closes.
The Summer EBT program is administered by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Department of Education (ODE).
Children cannot receive 2026 Summer EBT benefits in multiple states. The program invites families to apply if they have children living in Oregon during the 2025-26 school year.
Families can learn more about Summer EBT, find application information and get updates by visiting the website at sebt.oregon.gov.
7/15/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today
Almost 87 percent of Oregon is currently experiencing at least a Moderate Drought, despite recent rainfall.
According to NOAA, the Pacific Northwest has recorded its highest temperatures in the past five years since record-keeping began 130 years ago. The insufficient snowpack accumulated during winter is expected to negatively impact river levels as the region transitions from summer to fall.
Governor Kotek has issued drought declarations for nineteen counties in Oregon, while requests from Curry and Union counties are still under consideration.
7/15 Salmon Fire 1,540 acres 5% contained Olive Butte Fire 2,411 acres 5% contained – Granite Oregon
Resources: 56 engines; 19 crews; 18 heavy equipment; 23 water tenders; 5 helicopters Personnel: 900Crew coming off the line at the end of their shift. Photo credit: Shelly Yoder
L. L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock State Parks will host OMSI Star Parties this summer
— L.L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock State Parks will celebrate the night sky with free stargazing parties in July, August and September.
The parks are partnering with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers to host an OMSI Star Party 2026, which includes a presentation at dusk and stargazing from 9 to 11 p.m. Telescopes will be provided by volunteers, and visitors are welcome to bring their own. Depending on the weather, stargazers will search out stars, the moon, and planets.
“We love helping people experience the park in a different way. After dark, everything feels calmer, quieter, and a little more magical,” shared Park Ranger Jeremy Williams at L. L. Stub Stewart State Park.
These events are free. Parking in the day-use areas requires a $10 parking permit per vehicle or you can use an annual parking pass if you have one.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, warm clothing, snacks and water. Bug repellent is always a good idea. Please use red flashlights to avoid interfering with the dark sky viewing. You can also cover your flashlight or smartphone with red electrical tape.
Star maps will be provided along with recommended astronomy apps that visitors can load on their phones if interested.
Visitors should arrive early to familiarize themselves with the area and park only in designated spaces. Overnight camping is not permitted in day-use areas, though campground reservations are available at stateparks.oregon.gov.
On the scheduled day for OMSI Star Parties, visitors should visit the OMSI website for possible weather-related cancellations. The long-range forecast looks promising for excellent viewing.
“Whether you come to Rooster Rock to count Perseids or simply to spend a peaceful evening under the stars, the meteor shower is a wonderful excuse to slow down, look up, and experience the Gorge in a whole new light”, said Park Ranger Elika Paki at Rooster Rock. “And if you lose track of how many shooting stars you’ve seen, don’t worry, that just means you’re doing it right.”
All events begin at dusk. We recommend arriving early to accommodate parking. Parks will close at 11:45 p.m.
Summer Night Sky | Saturday, July 18
- L. L. Stub Stewart State Park
Perseid Meteor Shower Watch | Wednesday, August 12
- L. L. Stub Stewart State Park
- Rooster Rock State Park
Equinox Celebration | Saturday, September 12
- L. L. Stub Stewart State Park
You can find additional details about the event, parking logistics, whether pets are allowed, and how to request accessibility accommodations on the L.L. Stub Stewart State Park and Rooster Rock State Park event pages, and the OMSI event page.
Oregon State Parks often hosts stargazing events across the state. More opportunities can be found on Oregon State Parks’ event page.
Three Providence locations become latest measles exposure sites
Three new measles exposure locations have been identified, and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Multnomah and Clackamas county public health officials are urging people to talk to a health care provider about their risks if they believe they were exposed.
People might have been exposed if they were at the following locations at these dates and times:
- Providence Immediate Care—Happy Valley, 16180 SE Sunnyside Road, Suite 102, Happy Valley, between 7:42 a.m. and 10:22 a.m. Thursday, July 9.
- Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center, emergency department, 1500 Division St., Oregon City, between 12:18 a.m. and 5:56 a.m. Friday, July 10.
- Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center, emergency department, 1500 Division St., Oregon City, between 10:04 a.m. and 2:57 p.m. Saturday, July 11.
- Providence Portland Medical Center, emergency department, 4805 NE Glisan St., Portland, between 1:39 p.m. and 4:57 p.m. Saturday, July 11.
- Providence Portland Medical Center, emergency department, 4805 NE Glisan St., Portland, between 7:32 p.m. and 9:46 p.m. Sunday, July 12.
People who were at these locations during these dates and time periods should immediately contact their health care provider and let them know they may have been exposed to someone who has measles. The health care provider can determine your risk for measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection.
Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County’s seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment. Clackamas County residents can schedule an appointment with a Clackamas County Health Center.
Facts about measles
Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.
Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication.
Measles can be dangerous, especially among children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal. The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the virus. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.
What to do if you suspect measles in your household
Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:
- Have a measles-like rash, or
- Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes).
Whenever possible, individuals planning to seek medical care should first call your health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.
Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx.
Cases of parasitic outbreak remain low in Oregon as other states see surges
Oregon health officials have recorded a handful of verified cases of a parasitic intestinal illness in the state over the past two months, as outbreaks involving the disease continue to grow in other parts of the country.
Data the Oregon Health Authority released last week shows that in both May and June, public health officials recorded seven cases of cyclosporiasis in the state.
The parasite cyclospora infects the small intestine, and symptoms of the illness can include watery or explosive diarrhea, loss of appetite, bloating, weight loss, stomach cramps and nausea.
But Oregon’s current case levels remain far below the hundreds of cases confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which has been tracking the outbreak in 31 states since May but lagging behind state-level data in areas where the outbreak has been most pronounced. The Trump administration has gutted funding for local public agencies and reduced state-level surveillance requirements for a federal program to monitor foodborne illness.
The outbreak is currently concentrated in states such as Michigan, New York, Illinois and Texas, but some health officials on the West Coast have expressed concern that there could be spillover from the Midwest.
None of Oregon’s recent cases of cyclosporiasis have been connected to a common food source or broader outbreak investigation, according to Jonathan Modie, a spokesperson for the Oregon Health Authority. He noted that federal health officials are still investigating the source of the outbreak in other states.
“Many other states have also not reported an increase in cases,” Modie wrote in an email. “The reasons for this pattern remain unknown, and there is a possibility that specific risk factors (e.g., contaminated products or other common exposures) may not be present in Oregon. Until the factors driving the national situation are understood, we cannot know whether case numbers in Oregon will change in the future.”
So far, current cases are lower than previous years’ data. In June 2024 and July 2025, the Oregon Health Authority recorded 12 cases, the highest number for a single month in recent years.
The parasite thrives on produce such as lettuce which is not cooked and can remain contaminated when washed off. Public health experts recommend that people wash their produce thoroughly, avoid pre-cut or bagged salad mixes, cook foods whenever possible and be cautious of the source of drinking water.
Cyclosporiasis is treatable with antibiotics, but people with healthy immune systems can often recover without any additional treatment. Without treatment, the illness may last from a few days to a month or longer, according to the CDC. (SOURCE)
Oregon expands Medicaid to help some members buy groceries
Some Oregon Health Plan members can now get help buying groceries under a new Medicaid benefit that state officials hope will improve people’s health and keep them out of the hospital.
Starting this month, Oregon Health Plan members who have certain serious medical conditions and struggle to afford enough food can apply to receive up to six months of nutrition benefits through one of two new programs.
One covers fruits and vegetables. The other helps pay for pantry staples such as meat, fish, dairy products, bread, cooking oils, canned foods and spices.
The grocery benefits are the latest addition to Oregon’s health-related social needs initiative, an ambitious effort that has expanded what Medicaid pays for beyond traditional medical care.
In 2022, Oregon won federal approval to use Medicaid dollars for services such as housing assistance, medically tailored meals, nutrition education and climate-related equipment, including air conditioners and air filters for people whose health is threatened by extreme heat or wildfire smoke.
Dr. Sejal Hathi, director of the Oregon Health Authority, said the latest nutrition benefits serve as another “important tool to help people stay healthy.”
“When people have reliable access to nutritious food, they can better manage their health, which reduces emergency visits, lowers hospital readmissions and helps bring down medical spending overall,” she said in a statement.
Oregon health officials did not immediately say Wednesday how many Medicaid members they expect will qualify for the new nutrition benefits.
The benefit expansion comes as fewer Oregonians are receiving help buying groceries through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.
About 708,000 Oregonians received SNAP benefits in April, roughly 70,000 fewer than a year earlier. The decline has been steeper than state officials expected after President Donald Trump signed H.R. 1, which reduced federal spending on SNAP and Medicaid.
Dr. Margaret Cary, the Oregon Health Plan’s behavioral health medical director, said the new Medicaid nutrition benefits were never intended to replace SNAP.
“We know this is not going to solve hunger in Oregon. That’s not Medicaid’s role,” Cary said.
Still, she said, some Oregonians who have lost SNAP benefits or are receiving less food assistance could qualify for the new Medicaid program if they also meet its medical and eligibility requirements.
The latest nutrition benefits are available only to a narrow group of Oregon Health Plan members who have low or very low food security, meet certain medical requirements and are in qualifying situations, such as homelessness, recent incarceration or treatment, or involvement with Oregon’s foster care system.
The new pantry-stocking program is even more limited, with eligibility restricted to pregnant people, young children, young adults with special health care needs and certain older children and young adults with complex health needs.
Oregon Health Plan members can receive only one of the two benefits at a time, although they may apply for the other after the first benefit ends if they are still eligible.
Depending on where they live and which health plan they belong to, members will receive either grocery boxes delivered to their homes or prepaid cards they can use to buy approved foods at participating stores. The benefits last up to six months.
State officials did not immediately provide the average dollar value of the benefits. But Cary said they’re meant to supplement, not replace, a household’s grocery budget.
Members enrolled in coordinated care organizations can apply through their health plan. Those in Oregon’s fee‑for‑service Medicaid program, known as Open Card, can request benefits through the state’s contractor, Acentra, by calling 1-888-834-4304.
This story originally appeared in The Oregonian/OregonLive: Oregon expands Medicaid to help some members buy groceries – https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2026/07/07/oregon-expands-medicaid-to-help-some-members-buy-groceries/
Webinar series to honor 36 years of disability civil rights
— The public is invited to a series of free webinars featuring conversations with disabilities advocates and experts who will share the latest information on disability supports, emergency management systems and digital accessibility.
Topics by date are:
- July 7: Exploring Cross-Disability Experiences and Support Needs
- July 14: Building Inclusive and Accessible Emergency Management Systems
- July 21: ADA: How Far We’ve Come and What Comes Next
- July 28: Understanding the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Ruling on Digital Accessibility
The free weekly webinar series is being hosted by Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC), Oregon Department of Human Services, Northwest ADA Center and Disability Rights Oregon in recognition and celebration of the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
“As we reflect on the legacy of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we’re also looking closely at the work ahead such as understanding diverse experiences and support needs, strengthening inclusive and accessible systems, and advancing digital accessibility,” said Mark King, Chair of ODC. “We’re grateful to our co-hosts for joining us in presenting this series, which helps us continue educating and advocating for equity, independence and full participation for people with disabilities.”
The series will take place on Tuesdays throughout July, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time, beginning July 7. The sessions are open to the public, and registration is now available through the event webpage on Zoom.
The series will be accessible to people with disabilities and will be translated into Spanish. Captioning and American Sign Language interpretation will also be provided. For questions about accessibility for the webinar series, or to request an accommodation, contact OregonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov.
More information about the series, including presenter biographies, will be shared on the Oregon Department of Human Services ADA event webpage.
About the Oregon Disabilities Commission: The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations serving individuals with disabilities.
Oregon farmers reliant on irrigation have faced a challenging start to the season, with little improvement in conditions as the months progress.
Many are experiencing reduced water availability, with certain fields in Central Oregon facing unprecedented water restrictions. In Southern Oregon, growers are being incentivized to leave their fields unplanted, and there is a growing concern that water regulators may need to impose further restrictions before the end of the growing season.
Stream flows in rivers throughout most of Oregon’s basins are significantly below average for this time of year. The state’s snowpack, which typically serves as a natural reservoir, was disappointingly low this past winter, coinciding with some of the warmest winter months on record. In various areas of the Cascades, the limited snow that did accumulate is melting weeks earlier than expected.
Public invited to comment on plan to possibly triple logging in eastern Oregon national forests
The U.S. Forest Service’s proposed revisions to the Blue Mountain Forest Plan would allow more logging and taking older trees in the name of wildfire prevention
Officials at the U.S. Forest Service are proposing new management plans for eastern Oregon’s Blue Mountains that include potentially tripling the amount of logging across 5.5 million acres in the next decade.
The Forest Service published a draft of proposed changes to the 35-year-old Blue Mountain Forest Plan last week. It would allow more logging, mining and grazing across four national forests spread across eastern Oregon, as well as parts of southeast Washington: the Malheur, Ochoco, Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.
The public has until Sept. 30 to submit comments on the 350-page draft proposal.Submit comments on the revised Blue Mountain Forest Plan here.
The draft plan describes increases in logging and animal grazing as important to local economies and to preventing wildfire.
It predicts everything from habitat conservation to forest carbon storage would improve over the long term if more logging is allowed because strategically logging and grazing parts of the forest would prevent wildfire, which officials characterize as the biggest threat to habitat and forest loss.
Environmental advocates disagree with the framing.
The Blue Mountains encompass Oregon’s largest protected wilderness areas. Conservation groups have expressed concern and outrage over the draft management plan, which they say could exacerbate area drought and water quality issues, wildfire risks and impact habitat for elk, wolverine, wolves, moose, owls and salmon.
“This plan seeks to open up and pillage one of the wildest places left in the U.S.,” Lauren Anderson, a climate forests manager at the nonprofit Oregon Wild, said in a statement. “The Trump administration is already taking a hatchet to protections for water, wildlife and the public’s voice. This plan is that philosophy in action, putting at risk the very values that make the Blue Mountains special.”
Bev Law, a forest scientist and professor emerita at Oregon State University who has studied extensively the potential forest carbon storage in Oregon forests, found that protected wilderness areas in the Blue Mountains contain the second highest proportion of above-ground carbon stocks in all of Oregon’s protected wilderness areas.
Nick Smith, a spokesperson for the American Forest Resource Council, a trade association representing the timber industry, said in a statement that the group is still reviewing the proposed updates but that change is overdue.
“These national forests face some of the highest wildfire, insect and disease risks in the West. At the same time, the region is steadily losing the sawmills, logging contractors and the skilled workforce needed to carry out active forest management and provide markets for the material that needs to come out of the woods,” he said.
The draft Blue Mountain Management Plan proposal also includes rescinding a 32-year-old rule called the Eastside Screens that prohibits logging trees that are 21 inches in diameter or larger on six eastern Oregon and Washington national forests. Forest Service officials attempted to rescind the rule during the first Trump administration, but conservation groups sued and it was blocked by a federal judge.
Forest Service officials have argued that some younger trees that grow fast should be able to be removed even if they are more than 21 inches in diameter, because they are crowding out other tree species that take longer to grow but are important to the forest ecosystems.
The proposal also assumes Congress will soon rescind the 25-year-old Roadless Rule, which prohibits road construction, logging and mining on roughly 60 million acres of public land, including about 2 million acres of forests in Oregon. That alone would increase the amount of land classified as open for logging in the Blue Mountains by 17%, according to the draft.
Most of the increased logging would take place in the Malheur National Forest, followed by the Wallowa-Whitman and then Umatilla national forests. (SOURCE)
Ross Ragland Board President Paul Stewart urged the Klamath County Board of Commissioners to consider placing a funding measure on the November ballot to secure financial support for the theater, which he described as being “on the ropes” and nearing closure.
In response, the commissioners requested that the theater present a detailed ballot measure at their upcoming meeting on July 14, allowing them sufficient time to evaluate the proposal before their recess at the end of the month.
Commissioner Derrick DeGroot expressed his willingness to collaborate with theater representatives to facilitate this process, noting that the deadline for submitting ballot titles is August 14.
The theater is currently investigating two potential avenues to raise a minimum of $250,000: establishing an arts tax district or increasing the transient room tax. The funds generated would be allocated to cover essential expenses such as the theater’s mortgage, utilities, and insurance.
Additionally, officials have suggested implementing a five-year sunset for the arts tax district, which they believe would provide an opportunity to bolster the Ragland Rife Foundation endowment and ultimately enable the foundation to sustain the theater’s funding in the future.
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation has issued a warning regarding a newly identified fraud ring that enrolls individuals in life insurance policies without their awareness or consent.
This fraudulent activity primarily targets older adults and has been reported across several states, including Oregon. The scheme involves licensed insurance agents who initiate contact with victims through multiple telemarketing calls, during which personal information is solicited. This information is subsequently passed on to the participating insurance agents, who then reach out to the victims to gather any additional details necessary to finalize an application for a life insurance policy.
These applications are submitted without the victims’ knowledge, resulting in the issuance of one or more policies for which the agents receive commissions, despite the fact that the premiums have not yet been paid. The fraud typically comes to light when the insurance company seeks the initial premium payment.
The Division of Financial Regulation’s consumer advocates are available to assist with inquiries or to facilitate the filing of complaints. They can be contacted at 1-888-877-4894 or via email at DFR.InsuranceHelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance-related assistance, and dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for help with financial services.
Enjoy outdoors, avoid bites: OHA shares summer mosquito prevention reminder
Simple steps can reduce risk of serious mosquito-borne illnesses
—As mosquito activity increases during the summer months, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding residents and visitors to take precautions against mosquito bites and reduce exposure to West Nile virus, the most common mosquito-borne disease in the state.
Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are detected in Oregon every year, primarily in eastern and southern parts of the state, though infected mosquitoes have been found throughout the Pacific Northwest. Public health works closely with local vector control districts to identify areas where the virus is circulating in the mosquito population.
West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus can infect humans, birds, horses and other animals. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and can then spread the virus through subsequent bites.
“Summer is a great time to enjoy Oregon’s outdoors, but it’s also the time of year when mosquito activity is at its highest,” said Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., public health veterinarian at OHA’s Public Health Division. “Most people infected with West Nile virus may not develop symptoms, but some can become seriously ill, especially those over 50. Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk.”
About one in five people infected with West Nile virus develop a fever and flu-like illness that can include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Adults 50 and older, people with weakened immune systems, and those with certain underlying health conditions are at greater risk for severe illness. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe neurological disease affecting the brain or nervous system.
People experiencing a high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, muscle weakness, tremors or paralysis should contact a health care provider right away.
Here are tips to reduce breeding sites at home:
- Eliminate standing water around potted plants.
- Empty water from buckets, birdbaths, pet dishes and other containers at least once or twice each week.
- Clean clogged gutters and drainage areas.
- Remove old tires, unused containers and outdoor debris that can collect water.
- Regularly inspect areas under decks and shrubs, and around outbuildings where water may accumulate.
Tips to protect yourself outdoors:
- Use an EPA-registered insect repellent and follow label instructions.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when mosquito activity is high.
- Consider limiting outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use mosquito netting over infant carriers and strollers.
- Repair or install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes and buildings.
Additional information about West Nile virus, mosquito prevention and surveillance activities in Oregon is availableon OHA’s West Nile virus webpage.
Check out Oregon State Parks with your library card
Borrow an Oregon State Parks parking permit for free at 82 libraries statewide.
– Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) and the State Library of Oregon are partnering to offer free state parks parking permits to Oregon public libraries. There are currently 200 parking permits available at 82 libraries across the state.
“Oregon’s state parks are for everyone,” said OPRD deputy director JR Collier. “As we assess ways to manage our budget responsibly, we also want to uplift equitable access to our parks.”
Each participating library received up to four parking permits. These are the physical hang tags you check out from the library and put in your car. The permit covers parking in all Oregon State Parks day-use areas for one vehicle. Go to the Oregon State Parks website to find participating libraries. All you need to participate is your library card.
“Libraries help make life more affordable for Oregonians. This program leverages the existing borrowing system to help connects folks of all income levels with the beauty and splendor of Oregon’s State Parks,” said Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian.
Both OPRD and the State Library contributed 100 parking permits to the program to distribute to libraries. The agencies determined how many passes each library would receive based on interest from the library, its proximity to a park charging a day use fee, and the size of the population it serves. The State Library purchased permits with Library Services and Technology Act funds from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.
OPRD first distributed parking permits to 28 libraries as part of a year-long pilot program starting in August 2024. Those passes were checked out more than 2,100 times. At the pilot’s conclusion, OPRD evaluated how to best move the program forward in the context of its changing fees. In 2027, OPRD and the State Library will continue to explore options for an expanded long-term program that will serve even more libraries and people in Oregon. Learn more about the OPRD Library Pass Program.
Need to meet SNAP work rules? Free Oregon program helps people build skills and find jobs
More than half of participants who complete Oregon’s SNAP Employment and Training program are employed shortly afterward.
Salem, Ore. — More than half of SNAP participants who complete Oregon’s SNAP Employment and Training (STEP) program are employed shortly afterward, according to data reported to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Administration.
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is highlighting the success of these services as more Oregonians seek support navigating federal changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work or activity rules.
“Employment and training services can help people achieve more than compliance with a requirement,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, Oregon SNAP Director. “They help people build skills, connect with employers and create opportunities that can support them long after they leave SNAP.”
Before connecting with WorkSource Oregon, Isla was facing uncertainty after becoming unemployed while caring for a family member. She had long dreamed of continuing her education but wasn’t sure how she would make it happen. Through the SNAP Employment and Training (STEP) program, she received support, guidance and resources that helped her move forward. Today, she is continuing her education and working toward her goal of starting her own business.
“It has always been a dream of mine to better myself and show my kids you can always go to school and educate yourself no matter the age,” said Isla. “My plans for the future are to have my own company and a great job of my choosing.”
Stories like Isla’s are common among participants in Oregon’s STEP program. According to USDA Food and Nutrition Administration data, 57% of Oregon STEP participants are employed shortly after completing the program, one of the highest rates in the nation.
The STEP program connects SNAP participants with free employment and training services through partnerships between ODHS, STEP providers, the Oregon Employment Department, local workforce development boards and other community organizations throughout Oregon.
Services may include:
- Career coaching and employment planning
- Resume development and interview preparation
- Education and training opportunities
- Job search assistance
- Connections to local employers
- Help addressing barriers that can make it hard to find work or complete training
Many participants use these services to gain new skills, complete training programs, increase earnings or enter a new field.
Federal changes to SNAP work rules have increased the number of Oregonians who may need to meet work or activity rules to maintain food benefits. Employment and training services can help participants meet those requirements while building skills that support long-term employment success.
ODHS is also encouraging people to contact the ODHS ABAWD team (1-833-947-1694 or SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov) if they have questions about SNAP work or activity rules. Some people may qualify for an exemption and not realize it. Others may benefit from employment and training services that can help them maintain benefits while working toward their career goals. ODHS provides the referral for people to access these supports.
Since January 2026, more than 25,600 people have lost benefits because they didn’t meet work or activity rules.
“If you think SNAP work or activity rules may apply to you, your best next step is to contact ODHS,” said Hoffman. “We can help you understand your options and connect you with services that support your goals.”
For more information about SNAP work rules and exemptions:
- English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
- Spanish: Oregon.gov/snapnormastrabajo
ODHS ABAWD Team:
- Call: 1-833-947-1694
- Email: ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov
For more information about SNAP benefits:
- Online: oregon.gov
- Call the ONE Customer Service Center: 1-800-699-9075
- In person or by phone: at any ODHS office
Weekend Train Rides Return to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for the 2026 Season
PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Rail Heritage Center is excited to announce the return of its popular weekend train rides. Running every Saturday and Sunday through October 11, 2026, these family-friendly excursions offer passengers a memorable rail adventure through the heart of Portland aboard historic diesel locomotive BNSF 3613.
About Oregon Rail Heritage Center:
The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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.
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
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 
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