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
Monday – March 2, 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
Mt. Ashland Ski Area Operations Close Again Due to Lower than Average Snowfall and Snowpack.
Mountain Operations Update: Ski Area Operations will pause (again 
) at 4:00 pm today, 2/28, until we get sufficient snowfall.
Twilight is cancelled tonight
Our events this weekend (Diva Daze and Ladies Rail Jam) are cancelled.
To go to the Mt. Ashland webcam, click here.
Jackson County Rezoning Plans For New Industrial Developments at This Week’s Public Meeting
The Jackson County Board of Commissioners is set to hold a regular meeting on March 4, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. The meeting will take place in the Courthouse Auditorium and will also be available via audio and videoconference.
The agenda includes a public hearing on the transfer of jurisdiction of two county roads to the City of Ashland. The hearing will be limited to five minutes per person for oral testimony.
The board will also conduct the first reading of an ordinance to amend the Comprehensive Plan Map and Zoning Map, changing a 5.7-acre portion of a parcel from residential to industrial land. This property is located at 2000 Rogue River Drive.
For those unable to attend in person, the meeting will be broadcast on RVTV Cable Channel 181 and streamed live on the county website. Community members can also participate via Zoom or listen by phone.
—— The Jackson County Board of Commissioners normally meet weekly at the courthouse auditorium, Wednesday’s at 9:30 a.m. Meetings are televised live on RVTV Cable Channel 14/181 with Wednesday night replays at 8:00 p.m. on channel 180 and 10:00 p.m. on channel 181. Further replay schedules for Ch. 181 can be found at rvtv.sou.edu
***** Each meeting is recorded and available to be viewed via the internet via the RVTV PEG Player. New recordings are usually posted within 24-48 hours after the meeting. Questions or problems? Contact RVTV at Southern Oregon University, Ashland, 541-552-8416.
𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗱 – 𝟯𝟬𝟬 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁
Internet Crimes Against Children teams work to arrest man for Luring Minor/Online Sexual Exploitation
𝗔𝗿𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗲𝘇𝘇𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
Aggravated Theft I (5 counts)Theft I (2 counts)Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card – Felony (3 counts)Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card – Misdemeanor (4 counts)Olsrud Family Confirms Plans To Sell Sherm’s Thunderbird Markets
The Olsrud family which has owned and operated Medford based Sherm’s Market since 1967 has confirmed they are planning to sell its four Southern Oregon grocery stores.
Message to Sherm’s customers
Sherm’s would like to confirm that our stores are up for sale. Our goal is to find that right partner that will keep the stores operating just as they have for many years. Serving the community and taking good care of our 500 plus employees. Steve Olsrud, who has run the company for almost 30 years, is 78 years old and has chosen to work on this succession plan to try and accomplish this. Steve’s desire is to keep the company operating in the same manner it has been operating for many years.
We plan on this company being around for many years.
We love this community and appreciate how very good you have been to us. The generations of families who have done business with us have just been amazing and it is very much appreciated.
Per Steve Olsrud it is business as usual.
Go Sherm’s
Sincerely,
Bob Ames
General Manager
Sherm’s Thunderbird Markets, Inc.
Jackson County Community Long-Term Recovery Group – JCC LTRG
𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗡𝗢𝗪 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗸 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗿!
We are building a team of community-based assessors to help us conduct home wildfire risk assessments in Jackson and Josephine County. These assessments can be done on a 𝗳𝗹𝗲𝘅𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗲, in areas across 𝗯𝗼𝘁𝗵 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 that work best for you, and are 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝘀𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲 based on area/zones assessed.
𝗪𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻, 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱.
We currently only hold these 2-day assessor trainings 𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 and space is limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to join the team!
You can learn more about our Home Wildfire Risk Assessment Program, what it means to become a Home Wildfire Risk Assessor, and how to apply on our website at firebrandcollective.org/assessor
Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center Terminating Contracts with Doctor Groups
Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center has notified a team of nine NICU doctors of contract termination. Also a decision to terminate pact with 28 hospitalists effective February 2027 comes weeks after reported contract termination for nine NICU doctors and Asante confirming changes planned in July 2026 for neonatology program.
In the second of two significant contract terminations in recent weeks, Asante officials have reportedly decided to part ways with a group of more than two dozen doctors providing in-patient care for adult patients at Rogue Regional Medical Center for nearly a quarter of a century. The effective date is early 2027,
Southern Oregon Hospitalists, which is housed in the lower level of the Medford hospital, was launched in 2003 for the sole purpose of providing in-patient care to hospitalized adults. The specifics of the contract or offer a reaction to the loss of the long-term contract but confirmed contract termination and said members would cease to work inside the hospital effective 365 days from the written notice Feb. 5, or in early February 2027. T
he group of more than two-dozen doctors offered the following statement: “Southern Oregon Hospitalists, the largest hospitalist group in Southern Oregon, is proud of the patient care they have provided to the community as the exclusive hospitalist group at RRMC for over 20 years.”
Termination of the hospitalists’ contract came just seven days after a Jan. 29 staff meeting in which dozens of employees were reportedly notified that Asante officials had terminated the contract with nine neonatology doctors for the Medford hospital NICU.
Other concerns were raised in recent weeks when nursing staff reported that Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford temporarily shut down its intermediate care unit twice in December after ONA officials claimed Asante created a staffing shortage.
Asante is the largest health care provider and employer in nine counties in Southern Oregon and Northern California, providing medical care to 600,000 people throughout the region.
We can’t wait to see you there! March 7th & 8th at @ashland_hills_hotel
Dive into a two-day chocolate lover’s paradise with artisan chocolatiers, winemakers, and flavor crafters from across the West Coast. Savor everything from dark to decadent blends, vote for your favorite makers, enjoy access to The Culinary Stage with live demos, and family-friendly fun all weekend long.
Saturday: March 7, 2026 Sunday: March 8, 2026
NEW! Early ACCESS HOUR tickets: 10AM (entry with pre-purchased tickets only, included with overnight packages 
)
Main hours: 11AM – 4PM Single-day and weekend pass options available*Kids 8 & under enter free to the two-day marketplace
A sweet journey from bean to bar awaits! Overnight packages include festival weekend passes with early access:
http://oregonchocolatefestival.com/oregon-chocolate…/
Festival weekend kicks off Friday, March 6, with the Chocolate Maker’s Wine Dinner, plus Saturday’s Cocoa & Cocktails After Dark 
and Sunday’s dreamy Chocolate Brunch, and more 
(Special events sold separately) More info: oregonchocolatefestival.com/tickets/
https://www.oregonchocolatefestival.com/
https://www.facebook.com/events/733478522884320/733478529550986
The Taste and See Cooking School will be having another health meeting Sunday, March 15, at 1 pm, at the North Valley SDA Better Living Center in Merlin.
We hope you’ll join us once again for a vegan lunch of delicious hearty soup, salad, crackers with dip, and desert (all organic). The cooking demo will show you how easy it is to make wholesome crackers and dip, as well as desert, and we’ll share all the recipes. Our health talk will discuss cancer, what it is, how to avoid it and alternative therapies. Hope to see you there at the Better Living Center, 106 Acorn Street, Merlin, Or. Registration is required. The event is free, but donations will be accepted. To register, please leave a telephone message for Kristin at 541-597-2300 with your name, phone number, and how many persons will be attending. NO TEXT MESSAGES, please. May God bless your continuing journey to healthful living. https://www.facebook.com/events/26082334634767223/
UPDATE: OSP is asking for any potential witnesses or anyone with information to contact OSP Dispatch at 800-442-2068 or dial OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-035245. Investigators believe the pedestrian (Byam) was struck sometime between 9:45 p.m. on January 30, 2026, and 7:20 a.m. on January 31, 2026.
JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (Feb. 2, 2026) – On Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 7:20 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a report of a person down on the northbound shoulder of Interstate 5 near the Exit 24 on ramp.
The preliminary investigation indicated the pedestrian, Anthony Jonathan Byam (34) of Phoenix, had been struck by a vehicle that did not stop. Byam was declared deceased at the scene.
An investigation into the hit-and-run crash is ongoing. The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Fire District and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
City of Medford, Local Government – Calling all local artists!
The Medford Public Arts Selection Committee is inviting artists and teams from Jackson and Josephine counties to submit proposals for a new public mural in downtown Medford. 
Theme: Connection
Size: Four 4×16-foot panels (256 square feet total)
Location: Bartlett–Middleford parking garage connection Proposal deadline: April 12, 2026
𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱! Medford City Council’s Community Art Contest
Show us what community means to you and enter the Medford City Council’s Community Art Contest for a chance to win a $1,000 scholarship and have your artwork displayed at City Hall! 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗲: Community—share your perspective and civic pride 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲: March 20, 2026
𝗣𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗲: $1,000 cash scholarship 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗿𝘁: Displayed at City Hall
https://www.medfordoregon.gov/…/City-Council%E2%80%99s…
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
RCC Foundation Scholarship Applications Open
Britt Festival — Getting Ready for Summer
Join as a member today to get early access to tickets! https://britt.org/events/
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. .
Ashland Rolls Out Free Pre-Approved Plans to Spur Residents into Building Affordable Backyard Homes
Seeking to promote affordability and support residents’ diverse needs, the city of Ashland has encouraged its citizens to develop accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within the city and offers guidance on getting plans approved.
The City of Ashland has streamlined the ADU application process to enhance housing options. It now offers a complete set of pre-approved ADU plans that meet local building codes for free to Ashland property owners.
To get ADU plan approval in Ashland, the Ashland Planning Division offers a free consultation. At the meeting, a City Planner will review your site and provide valuable guidance on the permit application process. The meeting is geared towards helping you understand zoning requirements, building codes, and any other considerations for ADU projects. Find free City of Ashland ADU plans here
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.
’50 States in 50 Weeks’ visits Oregon
“GMA” spotlights the great state of Oregon and all it has to offer, whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, movie buff or sports fan. https://abcnews.com/video/130562892/
“GMA” visits Mount Hood to explore the state’s natural beauty, rich history and vibrant communities, speaking with tribes and women preserving traditions through dance. https://abcnews.com/video/130563347/
To square Oregon’s budget, lawmakers say many state agency jobs must go unfilled
Oregon’s budget writers warned that the state’s current $128 million deficit will worsen in the years ahead due to federal changes
Legislative budget writers propose leaving more than 130 state jobs vacant, spending less on services and supplies and moving around not-yet-promised money within public agencies to rebalance Oregon’s budget and close a large funding gap at the transportation department.
The moves should cover the state general fund’s remaining $128 million deficit during the next 18 months, and the nearly $289 million deficit at the Oregon Department of Transportation, sparing the agency from hundreds of layoffs. Federal tax changes passed by congressional Republicans during the summer that stymie some state revenues and add costs, and a lack of action on sustainable transportation funding during the 2025 long session, contributed to the dual deficits.
“We can do this budget for a little while,” Sen. Kate Lieber, D-Beaverton and co-chair of the budget-writing Joint Ways and Means Committee, said about the transportation budget at a Friday media briefing.
But both the transportation department and the general fund will need long-term fixes to sustainable revenue streams in the years ahead, she said.
“This is not a good budget,” Lieber continued about the transportation budget. “This is a very, very, very difficult budget, because it’s taking services away from Oregonians in a very real way.”
The changes are detailed in amendments to Senate bills 1601, 5701, 5702, 5703 and House bills 5203 and 5204 — released Sunday. Public hearings on the omnibus spending proposal will be scheduled early in the next week, according to Lieber and Ways and Means co-chair Rep. Tawna Sanchez, D-Portland.
Although lawmakers just eight months ago passed a $39 billion two-year budget for the state during the long legislative session, they need to rebalance spending in the current short session. That’s due in largest part to revenue losses and added costs anticipated from the federal tax and spending cut megalaw passed by congressional Republicans during the summer.
Oregon is one of a few states that automatically replicates changes in federal tax law at the state level, rather than selectively choosing provisions to mirror. That will, however, change slightly under a bill passed last week that allowed some disconnections to federal code, clawing back a net $291 million in tax revenue for the state in the next 18 months.
Lawmakers also needed to get creative about addressing the budget problems at the transportation department, which had an immediate $289 million funding gap and long-term funding issues tied to increasing project costs and shrinking gas tax revenue as Oregonians drive more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Finding a long-term solution was a priority during the 2025 legislative session, but lawmakers failed to negotiate a fix before the clock ran out on the six-month session. During a special session in the fall, they approved smaller increases to the state gas tax and vehicle registration fees.
But Oregonians never had to pay those higher fees after the Republican-led No Tax Oregon campaign this winter paused implementation and anticipated revenue for the current budget cycle at least until a statewide vote in November. Democrats are trying to move that vote to May.
Transportation hole
To cover the nearly $289 million transportation funding gap, Lieber and Sanchez said their proposal offers a temporary “pause” and redirection of spending until lawmakers can come together during the long 2027 session armed with sustainable solutions.
It doesn’t rely on the outcome of the gas tax and vehicle fees referral to keep the transportation agency funded for the next 18 months, but if the new revenue streams aren’t approved, the agency and lawmakers will be on worse footing when they come together to budget in 2027, Lieber said.
About one-quarter of the hole will be covered by cost savings from leaving more than 130 positions vacant. The agency lost about 360 employees since July due to budget uncertainty, Lieber said, and there are about 700 total vacant positions within the agency since early 2025, Interim Director Lisa Sumption recently told lawmakers, forcing workers to take on additional roles.
“People left that agency because of what’s happening. Because of all of the kerfuffle that happened around it. These were real jobs that were lost. And we’re sitting here, very dryly, telling you the math problem, but these are human beings who were helping us,” Lieber said.
Vacancies that will continue to go unfilled include:
- 92 project delivery positions
- 3 positions that administer funding to cities and counties for projects
- 14 Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division positions in both field offices and headquarters
- 15 position in administrative services
- 8 positions in finance and budget
The proposal also reduces agency spending on capital improvements and maintenance on its buildings and other infrastructure by about $4 million.
The other 75% of the budget hole will be covered by redirecting to general operating costs money the agency has for specific projects, but that hasn’t yet been spent or tied to immediate spending.
Lieber said nothing was being used that had already been obligated to a specific project, or taken from future funding years.
Lawmakers will take and reallocate:
- $5 million from the student driver training program
- $6 million from Oregon Highway 58 enhancements and expansions that have since wound down due to environmental issues and lack of local support
- $8 million from the Community Paths program for building and maintaining multi-use public paths
- $17 million from Safe Routes to Schools grant program
- $20 million from the Transportation Operating Fund, or the “lawnmower” fund, which is funded by non-road gas tax funds
- $35 million in dedicated revenue for bridge projects, seismic improvements, preservation of highways, culvert projects and safety projects
- $42 million from the Connect Oregon program, which provides grants for marine, aviation and rail projects
- $85 million of federal funds that can be tied to projects that don’t need a match from the State Highway Fund, freeing up those local dollars
Many of the redirects Democrats are now proposing were ones Republicans had called for during the 2025 session, in an effort to solve the transportation agency’s problems not with increased revenue options but decreased spending.
Lieber said the difference between what she and Sanchez are proposing now and what Republicans wanted in the long session, is permanence. They want to make sure programs like Safe Routes to Schools and Connect Oregon are not done away with completely.
“I mean, you can do anything for a short period of time, but this idea that permanently redirecting these funds is the solution, I think, should be examined very closely. Because it is damaging for our infrastructure, for that agency, and quite frankly, for the Oregonians who use the streets,” Lieber said.
Although lawmakers prioritized preserving money in transportation programs meant to protect health and safety, Lieber said Oregonians will notice the lack of staff and redirected funding from other critical functions of the agency.
“People are going to see things like longer waits at the DMV, much longer waits for street sweeping and filling up potholes and plowing,” she said. “It is at a bare minimum, right now, with this budget.”
Other topline cuts
To cover the rest of the state’s $128 million general fund deficit, some agencies will cash in on earned interest in long-term savings and investment accounts, leave vacant roles unfilled and shift spending, particularly at the Department of Early Learning and the Department of Human Services.
Lieber was adamant that no one would lose access to affordable preschool or child care options because of the funding shifts, which mostly reallocate unobligated funds to free up unrestricted dollars. The early learning agency was already operating with $45 million less than requested during the next two years after the Legislature reduced funding by 3% during the last session.
Overall, the $128 million hole is down significantly from the $650 million gap lawmakers were staring down at the beginning of the session, including a $271 million price tag for administering new costs associated with safety net programs under the federal Republican tax and spending law.
The recent passage of Senate Bill 1507, which allows the state to disconnect from three of 115 new federal tax code provisions, helped close nearly half the anticipated budget losses for the current biennium. An early February revenue forecast showing temporarily higher than expected corporate income taxes also helped.
Republicans have threatened to send the disconnect question instead to Oregon voters in a ballot referral by the November general election, something Lieber said would devastate the state’s budget.
If voters chose not to accept the disconnects and reconnect completely to the federal tax code, the governor could either call a special session to undertake large budget cuts from education and human services, which are the state’s largest expenses, Lieber said. Or, the governor could do an “allotment,” something Lieber described as a “draconian” method where every agency is ordered to quickly cut a percentage of spending across the board.
“It’s not a scalpel, it is a bludgeon across every single agency,” Lieber said.
She warned that as difficult as rebalancing the current budget has been, the next few years will be significantly harder. An August analysis from Oregon’s chief financial office found that cuts to federal programs in last summer’s congressional megalaw plus new costs shifting from federal to state governments will cost Oregon $15 billion over the next decade.
“We are facing large budget deficits in 2027-29 and 29-31,” she said. “This budget was a bit minor leagues compared to the budgets that are coming ahead of us.” (SOURCE)
Salem-Keizer students lead walkout, rally over immigrant rights at Oregon Capitol
Students call on legislators, district officials to enhance protections for immigrant students and families
Close to 2,000 middle and high school students across the Salem-Keizer School District walked out of their classrooms Friday to gather across from the Capitol, rallying for increased support for immigrant communities in Salem.
The youth advocacy organization Latinos Unidos Siempre organized the rally after an inquiry from 16-year-old McKay High School student Arely Rodriguez, who called for Oregon’s second-largest school district and the state Legislature to do more to protect immigrant communities from overreaching federal enforcement activity.
The issue hit close to home for many Salem-Keizer students, as about half the district’s 38,000 students are Latino and many come from immigrant families. Some have personally experienced trauma from increased immigration enforcement.
“Every morning I leave my house with a lump in my throat. I don’t know if my parents will be there when I get home from school. And I know I’m not the only person living with this constant fear,” Rodriguez told the crowd in Spanish. Another student translated her comments to English. “My grades have dropped, not because I don’t care about my education but because it’s impossible to concentrate on school when my community is being kidnapped.”
One demand students had was for the passage of House Bill 4079, which would require Oregon public schools and universities to notify students and parents of immigration enforcement actions on or near school campuses. The measure passed the House mostly on party lines last week, and a Senate vote is scheduled Monday.
Students also advocated for the passage of the dozen other bills in the immigrant justice package, a suite of bills supported by the Democratic majority.
If those bills pass, Oregon would offer increased guidance for schools and hospitals when addressing federal officers, guarantee additional data protections for immigrants and restrict law enforcement from wearing masks.
Students organize, speak out – LUS promoted the rally on its social media pages, including Instagram, which provided information for students on bills related to immigration, and bus routes from schools to reach the Capitol. Students left school around 11:30 to arrive at the Capitol mall by 12:30. The rally included dancers and speakers, then a procession around the Capitol led by Rodriguez.
In speeches, student leaders advocated for increased support for immigrants and their families, both at state and district levels. They also described how the fear of immigration enforcement is impacting them, including affecting academic performance.
Students also called for their schools to stop using Yondr pouches, or lockable pouches they’re required to put phones and personal electronic devices into during the school day. The district started using the pouches last school year, and Gov. Tina Kotek required K-12 schools statewide to ban personal electronic devices in a July executive order.
The initiative was meant to keep students offline and more focused on the school day. However, student advocates contend the inability to contact family members during the school day causes more anxiety than focus as they fear Immigration and Customs Enforcement potentially detaining family members.
Gibelly Zumba-Lopez, 14, walked from North Salem High School to the Capitol holding a sign saying “veto the Cheeto.”
“This is a historical thing that a lot of people need to be involved in,” Zumba-Lopez said. “As a teenager, I want to speak out about it and I want people to know that there are people who also support them.”
During the walk over, she said she experienced some people who disagreed with the students trying to interfere. Several counterprotesters tried to engage with the students, and a large group of students followed counterdemonstrators to a nearby corner, with some throwing water bottles at them.
No injuries were reported and no arrests resulted from that clash, according to a Friday evening press release from the Salem Police Department.
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Communications Director Aaron Harada said in an emailed statement that the district is committed to its immigrant students and their families.
“We see their fear, stress, and trauma and do all we can to be (a) safe and trusted place,” Harada wrote. “Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ commitment to our students is simple, steady, published on paper and present in practice. In Salem-Keizer Public Schools, every student is welcomed, protected, respected and educated every day. No exceptions.”
The rally was not a school-sanctioned event. Students attending would not be penalized for doing so, but they would receive an unexcused absence.
However, for students like 12-year-old Valerie Renteria, who left class at Waldo Middle School and held a sign that said “I’m missing my lessons to teach you one,” speaking out was worth the risk.
“This isn’t really about politics anymore,” she said. “It’s starting to affect people.” (SOURCE)
IMAGINATION LIBRARY OF OREGON CELEBRATES MILESTONE: 4 MILLIONTH BOOK MAILED IN THE STATE
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Oregon
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Oregon, a leading early literacy nonprofit dedicated to ensuring young children have access to books at home, proudly announced today that it has mailed its 4 millionth book in Oregon, marking a major milestone in its mission to inspire a love of reading.
This accomplishment reflects years of collaboration between community partners, libraries, educators, and advocates who know that early access to books can profoundly shape a child’s future. In May of 2024 the State of Oregon launched the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library, offering matching funds to strengthen the work of local partners and boost both coverage and enrollment. As a result, in April 2025 the program reached full statewide coverage. Now, in 2026, more than one-third of the 4 million books mailed, 1,394,648 in total, have been mailed since the state joined the effort.
“It has been my joy to partner with the Imagination Library to get more books in the hands of kids by hosting read alouds across the state,” said Oregon First Lady, Aimee Kotek Wilson, of the many library events she has participated in to build awareness for this free resource for Oregon families. “Supporting early literacy initiatives like this is an investment in the bright future of our entire state.”
Started in 1995 by Dolly Parton, the Imagination Library was inspired by her father, who could not read or write—and by her belief that if you can read, you can do anything. The program first arrived in Oregon in 2007. It gifts free, high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children and their families from birth to age 5. Research consistently shows that children who grow up with books in the home are more likely to develop critical literacy skills and succeed academically.
“Oregon is choosing to be architects of the future. This achievement represents 4 million opportunities for families to share a story, spark imagination, and build early language and literacy skills,” said House Majority Leader Ben Bowman, who has championed the Imagination Library in the legislature. “Over time, these small, consistent interactions lay the groundwork for kindergarten readiness—and they help our youngest kids fall in love with reading.”
Early literacy remains a pressing issue in Oregon, where many children enter kindergarten without foundational skills. By delivering books directly to families, the Imagination Library of Oregon helps remove barriers related to cost and access, levelling the playing field and empowering families.
“Each book mailed is a reminder to families that they are supported, valued, and equipped to be their child’s first and most important teachers,” said Department of Early Learning and Care Director, Alyssa Chatterjee. “Over time, shared reading moments become routines, and those routines become habits that support school readiness and academic success.”
As the Imagination Library of Oregon looks ahead, the organization remains committed to expanding its reach, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that every child in Oregon has the opportunity to build their own personal library. Currently, 35% of all children under age 5 in the state are already enrolled, in many regions that number is over 50%. With sustained community support and strategic growth, the program will continue building a stronger future—one child, one book, and one personal library at a time.
For more information about the Imagination Library of Oregon or to enroll a child, visit imaginationlibrary.com/oregon.
The Oregon House has recently approved HB 4138, known as the Law Enforcement Accountability and Visibility Act (LEAVA), which is designed to improve transparency and accountability within law enforcement activities throughout the state.
The bill is now pending review in the Senate. As stated by the Oregon House, this legislation establishes uniform standards for law enforcement identification, restricts the use of facial coverings, and limits state support for unconstitutional federal actions.
Under the provisions of LEAVA, officers are required to display their name, badge number, and agency identification while performing their duties. Additionally, it mandates the public posting of policies regarding facial coverings for designated circumstances. The bill also establishes a barrier against unconstitutional federal overreach, forbidding state and local employees from participating in actions that discriminate against individuals based on their beliefs or constitutional rights.
The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission has made a decision with a vote of 6-1 to reject a petition from environmental organizations that sought to implement more stringent regulations on the state’s commercial Dungeness crab fishery.
This petition, initiated by groups such as the Center for Biological Diversity and Oceana, aimed to further reduce the risk of whale entanglements along the coast. During a well-attended meeting in Springfield, numerous local fishermen provided testimony opposing the proposal, contending that external interests should not control local fishery management.
In the end, the commission opted to allow the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) to proceed with its existing rulemaking processes and ongoing collaboration with federal agencies.
Residents of Keno gathered last week to talk about a proposed large-scale solar project planned for their area.
The project, backed by the Klamath Falls Energy Center, would cover about 8,600 acres, making it the second-largest solar farm in Oregon. It would be located roughly 1.5 miles northwest of Keno.
The meeting was organized by Klamath County commissioner candidate Elvina Contla, who pointed out that a separate solar project proposed by Diamond Solar would require only 2,000 acres—less than a quarter of the land needed for the Klamath Falls Energy Center project. Contla described the larger proposal as an unprecedented industrial expansion into timberland.
The project’s parent company, Denmark-based Orsted, submitted a Notice of Intent to the Oregon Department of Energy on December 22, 2025, as part of the application process for site certification. Another public meeting is scheduled for March 5 at 5:30 p.m. in Klamath Falls at The Spot, located at 1111 Main Street.
The land designated for the project is owned by Green Diamond, a forest products company operating across multiple states. To make way for the solar installation, the area would be cleared of trees and vegetation to install millions of solar panels.
Community members raised several concerns during the meeting, including wildfire risks, potential impacts on the water table, and disruption to local wildlife. The project is planned as a 400-megawatt solar power facility, with an additional 400 megawatts of battery storage capacity.
While the facility is expected to use relatively little water once operational, construction could require up to 45,000 gallons of water per day. Although no official timeline has been set, similar projects suggest construction could take between one and three years.
Oregon House again delays vote to reschedule transportation tax election
The Oregon Legislature yet again delayed a vote on one of the most politically contentious bills of the year’s short legislative session to reschedule a referendum on transportation tax and fee increases from November to May.
Lawmakers in the Oregon House on Thursday agreed to push Senate Bill 1599 to Monday for consideration, despite it being listed on the agenda for a vote on Thursday. One of the state’s top election officials had urged lawmakers to pass the bill and get Gov. Tina Kotek’s signature by Wednesday because of approaching deadlines for the May election.
The loose Wednesday deadline, according to Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read, would have given his office enough time to ensure Oregonians who wish to submit arguments for or against the measure in the state-issued voter’s pamphlet can gather signatures instead of paying a $1,200 fee.
The Senate passed the legislation on Monday mostly along party lines, with one moderate Democrat dissenting, after a one-day walkout by Republicans that threatened to derail Democrats’ plans to move the election date. Thursday’s move in the House allowed them to proceed with less controversial legislation while avoiding the potential of another walkout by House Republicans, who boycotted their chamber on Monday after the Senate sent them the election-shifting legislation.
A spokesperson for House Speaker Rep. Julie Fahey, D-Eugene, did not immediately return an inquiry about the move to push back the vote.
Rep. Ed Diehl, a Scio Republican running for governor, urged his colleagues to consider the entirety of the legislation when they vote on Monday. He pointed to provisions which would allow a joint legislative committee to create the explanatory statement for the referendum in the state’s voters’ pamphlet, as well as the bill’s financial estimate.
“This bill is not simply the scheduling decision,” he said Thursday. “It restructures how information about the referendum is produced and who prepares that information.”
The gas tax transportation referendum has become a political lightning rod for lawmakers over cost of living issues in the state of Oregon, with Republicans slamming the state’s Democratic leadership for passing unpopular legislation during a fall special session to raise the gas tax, car registration and title fees and the payroll tax used for public transit. Republicans have vowed to fight the move to shift the election date in the courts should Democrats’ effort pass.
State law mandates that any person who wants to have a line in the state’s voter pamphlet must either pay a $1,200 fee or file 500 signatures. If a person or group chooses the latter, then the secretary of state must verify those signatures by March 12. After lawmakers blew past his agency’s original Wednesday deadline, Read warned them that such a delay could “impact Oregonians’ ability to make an informed decision about the referendum and for proponents or opponents to make their voices heard.”
A spokesperson for Read declined to comment further Thursday.
Democrats, in turn, have said that new revenue sources are needed to plug the transportation department’s declining revenue driven by declining gas tax revenue and inflation. The agency faces a $242 million budget hole in the 2025-27 budget alone, and it would have to lay off nearly 500 workers if lawmakers don’t come to a compromise. Gov. Tina Kotek has said an answer is needed from voters as soon as possible.
The “No Tax Oregon” campaign, led by Diehl and other Republicans, received enough signatures to pause new revenue streams from the tax increases until a November referendum.
Many Republicans have portrayed the Democratic attempt to reschedule the referendum as an attempt to ensure an unpopular initiative is not on the same general election ballot as Kotek and Democratic legislators. Two top Oregon Democrats, Senate President Rob Wagner, D-Lake Oswego, and Sen. Jeff Golden, D-Ashland, publicly acknowledged the political calculus behind the move, though a spokesperson for Wagner tried to downplay his comments.
“Both parties want the election date they want for partisan political reasons. Everyone in this chamber knows it,” Golden told his colleagues on Monday. “Most Oregonians who are paying attention know it. And if we imagine otherwise, we are greatly underestimating the intelligence of Oregonians.”
In the meantime, the budget gap facing the Oregon Department of Transportation continues to loom. Lawmakers this session had to weigh which programs within the agency to temporarily cut and redirect toward this gap, or face the prospect of leaving 150 positions vacant and laying off nearly 500 workers.
Kotek told reporters Tuesday that lawmakers had reached a compromise on which transportation programs to cut, but offered few specifics on the depth of those changes. The details of such a compromise have not yet been made publicly available, allowing lawmakers to avoid any pushback from transportation workers or union leaders who hold significant political sway in Salem.
But the governor maintained that the plan focuses on savings from job vacancies, avoiding layoffs, and taking funding from infrastructure improvement projects that have yet to begin.
“Tough choices were made to get to our compromise,” she said. “And no one loves the proposal, but it will make sure that the agency can function through the end of the biennium and past the end of the biennium to provide basic services: Plowing roads, operating DMVs, things like that.” (SOURCE)
Oregon lawmakers are considering a new bill aimed at regulating flavored nicotine pouches.
The legislation seeks to close a loophole that currently allows these products to be sold without the same restrictions applied to other tobacco products. Health experts warn that despite their different appearance, nicotine pouches carry similar risks of addiction as cigarettes and vaping products.
Lisa Fischer, a Tobacco Prevention Outreach Coordinator, emphasized that nicotine is highly addictive and can alter brain chemistry by triggering dopamine release, reinforcing repeated use.
Under current Oregon law, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase tobacco products, but that restriction does not currently apply to nicotine pouches.
These smokeless products, which are placed between the gum and lip, have grown increasingly popular in recent years, raising concerns among public health officials.
ATRIO Health Plans is currently facing financial challenges, with an outstanding debt of nearly $60 million owed to Asante for services that have already been provided.
Note: This situation has resulted in a notable alteration in network status for ATRIO members. As stated by Asante, starting January 1, ATRIO’s Medicare Advantage coverage will be considered out of network with Asante.
Members are required to take action before March 31 to prevent any disruption in their care, as new routine appointments will not be accessible after this date, with certain exceptions.
Heather Rowenhorst, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Asante, highlighted their dedication to the community, noting that the non-payment from ATRIO has necessitated challenging decisions.
“This decision underscores our commitment to our communities to ensure the sustainability of Asante and health care in southern Oregon,” Rowenhorst remarked.
Members affected by this change have until March 31 to switch their Medicare Advantage plans. Asante provides resources to assist members in continuing care with their existing providers.
Senate Passes ‘Healthcare Without Fear Act’
Oregon Senate Bill 1570 will hold federal immigration officers accountable inside hospitals, protect patients’ and providers’ rights, and ensure everyone can access healthcare without fearing for their safety.
Healthcare workers applauded Tuesday as the Oregon Senate voted to pass the Healthcare Without Fear Act, Senate Bill 1570, to ensure hospitals are places of healing and trust; not fear or intimidation. The Healthcare Without Fear Act ensures federal immigration agents are accountable to the same standards as state and local law enforcement inside hospitals; safeguards patients’ private health information; and improves Oregonians’ health and safety.
“This bill is not abstract policy—it is a promise. A promise that Oregon’s hospitals will be safe spaces. A promise that violence and intimidation have no place in healthcare settings. A promise that caregivers can do their jobs without fear. And a promise that all patients are treated with the dignity, humanity, and protection they deserve,” said ONA President Tamie Cline, RN.
The Healthcare Without Fear Act comes after recent federal policy changes have made hospitals, clinics, and schools targets for immigration enforcement actions from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)—including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). In Oregon federal immigration agents shot two people in a hospital parking lot; arrested an entire family trying to take their sick 7-year-old daughter to the ER; and reportedly failed to follow protocols inside hospitals by entering restricted areas, exposing protected health information, and interfering with patients’ care.
Senate Bill 1570 requires hospitals to create policies around all law enforcement interactions, designate a point person to interface with law enforcement to reduce burdens on frontline caregivers, and clearly designate public and private spaces. It protects patients’ privacy by classifying immigration status and place of birth as protected health information and empowers healthcare providers to share information about immigration rights or legal services with patients and their families.
“Our patients do not feel safe seeking necessary and life-saving medical care. This injustice strikes at the heart of our healthcare system,” said ONA member Jayesh Palshikar, RN. “The Healthcare Without Fear Act will protect providers and patients, hold federal officers accountable to basic hospital standards and begin restoring trust in our healthcare system.”
Following today’s successful Senate vote, the bill will move on to the House Committee on Health Care.
More information on the Healthcare without Fear Act can be found at OregonRN.org/CareWithoutFear.
###The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.
State issues first 2026 income tax refunds for e-filed returns; Refunds for paper-filed returns won’t start until April
The Oregon Department of Revenue has begun distributing refunds for the 2025 tax year. Through February 17, the department has processed more than 500,000 electronically filed tax returns.
Most taxpayers can expect to receive their refunds within two weeks of the date their return is filed. Some returns, however, require additional review and can take up to 20 weeks before a refund is issued.
Oregon is returning a $1.41 billion revenue surplus “kicker” to taxpayers in 2026. The kicker credit will either increase a taxpayer’s refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe.
Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. The credit is a percentage of Oregon personal income tax liability for the 2024 tax year. Taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using a “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online.
The department encourages taxpayers to file electronically. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper returns will experience a significantly longer wait in 2026 due to processing delays.
Taxpayers can check the status of their e-filed refund by using the department’s Where’s My Refund? tool. The Department of Revenue recommends that taxpayers wait one week after they have electronically filed their return to use the Where’s My Refund tool. Paper-filed returns won’t show up in the Where’s My Refund? tool until processing begins in late March. Taxpayers mailing their return should wait two weeks after the department starts processing paper returns in late March or after mailing their return, whichever is later.
The Where’s My Refund? tool has been updated for 2026, providing clear messaging about the status of their return to taxpayers who are signed into their Revenue Online account. Taxpayers who don’t already have a Revenue Online account can create one by following the Revenue Online link on the department’s website. Taxpayers who don’t have a Revenue Online account can still use the Where’s My Refund? tool but won’t be able to see the updated features.
A video outlining the refund process and timelines is also available to help taxpayers understand the process.
Taxpayers should file just once unless they need to make a change to their return. They should choose to either file electronically or by paper. Doing both will delay processing of their return.
In addition to checking the status of their refund, taxpayers can make payments, or get tax forms by visiting the department’s website. Questions can be emailed to questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.
Taxpayers can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), the department accepts all relay calls.
Oregon State Parks to hire seasonal Park Rangers, Park Ranger Assistants
Oregon State Parks is hiring seasonal Park Rangers and Park Ranger Assistants for positions across the state for the 2026 season.
Hiring starts as soon as this month and runs through June with new positions listed on a rolling basis on the website. The positions last anywhere from four to nine months. Most seasonal staff work April through September, but some start as early as this month or work as late as December.
Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.
Salaries start at $20.28 per hour for seasonal assistants and $23.79 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, who are enrolled in high school start at $20.27 or more per hour, depending on experience.
Several of Oregon State Parks’ top leaders started their careers as seasonal employees, including all three Region Directors.
“We are focused on developing an engaged workforce by partnering with staff on career development, investing in skill building and fostering a culture of belonging. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you make a difference in protecting and promoting Oregon’s special places,” said interim Director Stefanie Coons.
Seasonal staff gain valuable skills working with experienced Park Rangers at parks around the state. Positions are available in Oregon’s coastal areas, scenic valleys, and mountain regions, offering opportunities to work in some of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.
For more information about current openings, visit https://bit.ly/oregonparkjobs. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Recruiting D.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity and pay equity.
Beginning on March 30, 2026, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will discontinue the waiver of parking fees at an additional 22 day-use parks.
Currently, a day-use parking permit costs $10 for residents of Oregon and $12 for out-of-state visitors, and it is valid for the entire day of purchase at any state park in Oregon. Access to the parks remains complimentary for those who walk, bike, or utilize public transportation.
Visitors arriving by car can present valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a valid 12 or 24-month parking permit. Additionally, visitors who acquire parking permits online or through parking QR codes can link their license plates to the valid payment.
At present, OPRD mandates a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks throughout the state. The selection of the 22 additional parks was based on the amenities and features that necessitate maintenance and operation, including restrooms, trails, paving, irrigation, boat ramps, and more.
The revenue from parking fees contributes to the maintenance and operation costs, ensuring that these facilities remain available for all visitors.
Raise Funds to Plant Trees in Oregon
Registration is open for the Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K
Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests. You must register by April 1st in order to get your shirts and medal before the event.
Participants can walk, run, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 18 and 26 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day). Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. Last year, we had to close registration early due to higher than anticipated participation, so register as soon as possible. If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15, or earlier if more participants sign up than we have available swag.
For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks. Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration. This year’s tree plantings will be placed in the Santiam Canyon.
Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.
As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its sixth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include fifteen other states. Together, all sixteen states will help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.
“We are thrilled to honor Bob Ross and continue our efforts to plant at least One Million Trees in Oregon.” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever. “To date, we have funded the planting of 850,000 trees.”
“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”
Participants can register at www.orparksforever.org. — For more information, contact Seth Miller at 503/966-1053 or seth@orparksforever.org
UNDER PRESSURE: A VOLCANIC EXPLORATION, AN EXHIBITION FROM OREGON’S HIGH DESERT MUSEUM, SHEDS NEW LIGHT ON THE RUMBLING GIANTS AMONG US
(BEND, Ore.) — For millions of years, volcanoes have been the most powerful force in nature. And for many in the West, the impact of volcanoes is forever tied to the May 18, 1980, eruption of Washington’s Mount Saint Helens. The science, spectacle, and significance behind these massive peaks will soon be at the center of an immersive new exhibition, “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration,” which will run from Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, at the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipient High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore.
On the heels of the Museum’s recent “Sensing Sasquatch” exhibition – which won the Western History Association’s prestigious 2025 Autry Public History Prize and earned national praise for exploring the Indigenous perspectives of what many call Bigfoot – comes the latest groundbreaking exhibition from the High Desert Museum. Under Pressure will take visitors on an educational, insightful, and thought-provoking journey into the forces that make volcanoes among the most majestic and often misunderstood natural wonders of the world, while exploring their individual stories and temperaments.
“From cultural and historical significance to the 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helens, the Pacific Northwest and High Desert have a particularly long, complex, and symbiotic relationship with volcanoes,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D., High Desert Museum executive director. “We live in their shadows, recreate on their slopes, and admire their beauty, but it’s the volcanoes’ ability to simultaneously cause destruction and creation that evokes feelings of awe. Under Pressure will provide an immersive and deep exploration.”
Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration, a groundbreaking new exhibition from Oregon’s High Desert Museum.
WHEN: Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027
WHERE: High Desert Museum (Spirit of the West Gallery)
59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702 (map HERE)
COST: Free with Museum admission or membership
Active U.S. military and their families, as well as Tribal members, are FREE with ID
Among the highlights that visitors to Under Pressure can expect to encounter include:
- Engage the senses through interactive displays and exhibits, including volcanic rocks and a volcanic hazard map, to learn about cutting-edge volcano research.
- Hear stories and learn the significance of volcanoes to the people of the High Desert region.
- Get to know 4-6 individual volcanoes through biographies that explain the similarities and differences between them.
- Learn about present-day volcano hazards and how lava flows.
- Understand the technologies that scientists use to detect volcanic activity, which allow us to live among volcanoes while also enjoying their many benefits.
“These geologic giants exist all around us, come in all shapes and sizes, and tell a story of our past, present, and future,” says Whitelaw. “With 350 million people living near an active volcano worldwide, the more we understand about volcanoes, the better we can exist alongside them.”
Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration opens to the public on Feb. 7, 2026, and runs through Jan. 3, 2027, in the High Desert Museum’s Spirit of the West Gallery. For additional information on exhibitions or to start planning your experience, visit highdesertmuseum.org.
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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