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Winter Weather Warning Issued as Snow and Frost Hit Five Western States

Winter Weather Warning Issued as Snow and Frost Hit Five Western States

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter weather warnings for parts of the western United States, including Idaho, Montana, Oregon, California, and Nevada. Unusually cold weather is bringing snow, frost, and freezing temperatures to these areas, conditions more typical of early spring or winter rather than the start of summer. The advisories highlight the risk of frost and freezing temperatures, which could damage crops and outdoor vegetation. The Beartooth Highway in Montana is experiencing snow and gusty winds, impacting travel during the peak tourist season.

Several States Decline Participation in President Trump's 'Great American State Fair'

Several States Decline Participation in President Trump's 'Great American State Fair'

President Donald Trump has announced the 'Great American State Fair' as a patriotic event featuring pavilions from every U.S. state and territory. However, several states, including Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, and North Carolina, have opted out of participating. These states cited concerns over the costs and the perceived partisan nature of the event. The fair, organized by the Trump-aligned nonprofit Freedom 250, is set to open on June 25 on the National Mall and will last for about two weeks. Despite some states' withdrawal, Freedom 250 assures that all states and territories will be represented, with pavilions showcasing each state's unique culture and history. The event has faced criticism for its political overtones and lack of transparency, with some watchdog groups raising concerns about the nonprofit's donor disclosure practices.

Oregon Exempts Amazon's Fleet from New EV Road Fees, Raising Equity Concerns

Oregon Exempts Amazon's Fleet from New EV Road Fees, Raising Equity Concerns

Oregon has introduced new taxes and fees for electric vehicle (EV) owners to fund road maintenance, but large corporate fleets, including Amazon's, are exempt. Starting next year, individual EV drivers will pay either a per-mile road user tax or an annual fee, contributing significantly to the State Highway Fund. This fund, traditionally supported by gas taxes, has seen reduced revenue as more residents switch to electric and hybrid vehicles. The exemption for Amazon's fleet, which includes over 11,000 electric vans, has sparked debate. Lawmakers argue that more time is needed to devise a fair system for corporate fleets, as these vehicles do not qualify for existing weight-mile fees or gas taxes.

Circle K offers answer to Costco and Kroger's cheap gas

Circle K offers answer to Costco and Kroger's cheap gas

Even though gas prices have fallen, they remain over $4 per gallon, which continues to pressure household budgets and spending patterns.. That has prompted retailers to use fuel discounts as a way to attract shoppers and increase store traffic. That's something Kroger did earlier this week, with a ...

Outdoor retail giant closes 59 stores in Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Outdoor retail giant closes 59 stores in Chapter 11 bankruptcy

My friend says buying a boat is like getting married: you start in a hypnotic honeymoon phase, ignoring the red flags. Soon, the honeymoon ends, but the expenses keep coming. You realize the upfront price was just the beginning; mooring fees, insurance, fuel, and repairs mean pouring money ...

Democrats Target Key States for Redistricting Ahead of 2026 Midterms

Democrats Target Key States for Redistricting Ahead of 2026 Midterms

The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) has unveiled a strategy to target key state legislative battlegrounds for future redistricting efforts. The plan identifies over a dozen states where Democrats aim to flip legislative chambers or expand majorities to counter Republican-led redistricting. This strategy follows recent Supreme Court decisions that weakened the Voting Rights Act and comes ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The DLCC's focus includes states like Arizona, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, where control of legislatures could significantly impact congressional maps for upcoming election cycles. The committee also highlights the need for supermajorities in states like Nevada and Oregon to advance redistricting changes.

Oregon Families to Receive Summer Food Benefits for Children

Oregon Families to Receive Summer Food Benefits for Children

Oregon families with school-aged children will receive financial assistance for summer groceries through the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program. This initiative provides a one-time payment of $120 per eligible child to be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and convenience stores. The program targets families enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, among others. The benefits aim to support families during the summer months when school meals are unavailable.

Governor Tina Kotek Approves Return of Civil Jurisdiction to Oregon Tribe, Marking a Step Toward Sovereignty

Governor Tina Kotek Approves Return of Civil Jurisdiction to Oregon Tribe, Marking a Step Toward Sovereignty

Governor Tina Kotek has signed a proclamation to return civil jurisdiction to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, aiming to reverse a 73-year-old federal law that removed legal resources from tribes in Oregon without their consent. This move is part of a broader effort to affirm the sovereign status of tribal nations. The U.S. Department of the Interior must still approve the request. The 1953 law had allowed states to assume jurisdiction over tribal lands, impacting civil and criminal matters. In 2025, Oregon passed Senate Bill 1011, creating a process for tribes to request the return of legal jurisdiction. The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation is the first to make such a request under this law.

Oregon Expands Summer EBT Program to Support Families with Children

Oregon Expands Summer EBT Program to Support Families with Children

Oregon has launched its Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program for the third consecutive year, providing financial assistance to families with school-aged children for summer groceries. The program offers a one-time payment of $120 per eligible child, which can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and convenience stores. Families automatically eligible include those enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. The program also covers children in foster care, migrant education programs, and those experiencing homelessness. Families not automatically enrolled can apply online or via paper application by September 1.

Oregon Governor Blocks Undercover Plates for ICE Amid Sanctuary Law Concerns

Oregon Governor Blocks Undercover Plates for ICE Amid Sanctuary Law Concerns

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has decided not to extend restrictions on undercover state license plates to all federal law enforcement agencies, focusing instead on blocking U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from receiving them. This decision comes in response to what the governor's office describes as 'repeated violations of state and federal law by ICE agents' and aims to protect community trust and public safety. The Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicles division will continue to provide undercover plates to other federal agencies like the FBI and DEA, as long as there is no risk of breaking state law. This move has led to a lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice, which argues that Oregon's actions violate federal law. The state, however, maintains that it is following its sanctuary laws, which limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Second Nature Brands Acquires Tillamook Country Smoker, Expanding Protein Snack Portfolio

Second Nature Brands Acquires Tillamook Country Smoker, Expanding Protein Snack Portfolio

Second Nature Brands Acquires Tillamook Country Smoker, Expanding Protein Snack Portfolio

Bandon City Council Plans to Replace Outdated Tsunami Alert System

Bandon City Council Plans to Replace Outdated Tsunami Alert System

The Bandon City Council in Oregon is taking steps to replace its outdated tsunami warning system. During a recent meeting, concerns were raised about the current siren-based system, which relies on hardware and software that have become obsolete and prone to failure. The system consists of a master control unit operated via a laptop, which sends emergency signals to five siren towers across the community. However, issues with audibility and functionality have been reported, with some residents unable to hear the sirens. The council has decided to retire the old system and replace it with the CivicPlus Mass Notification System, which provides alerts via text, phone call, and email. This system is already in use and offers a more reliable and cost-effective solution.