Willamette Valley
Latest Stories

Crime
Former Eugene Weekly business manager arrested over embezzlement scheme
Elisha Young worked at the Weekly from 2018 until late 2023, according to the publication’s website. She’s now accused of stealing money from the paper, and failing to pay some of its business partners.

Federal workforce
Postal workers in Eugene rally against threats of privatization
In February, there were rumblings from the Trump administration about privatizing the post office or possibly moving the USPS under the Commerce Department.

Law and Justice
Attempted murder trial in Benton County abruptly dismissed after three days amid undisclosed footage
Body camera footage showed the alleged victim contradicting his claim of self-defense. It wasn’t released for two years.

Health
Lagging reimbursements from government may mean a merger or new partnership lies in Corvallis-based Samaritan Health’s future
The three-county system has not yet considered specific possibilities for its next move after possibly acquiring Santiam Hospital. But CEO Doug Boysen says ‘all options are on the table’ for Samaritan given the challenging financial landscape.

Weather
Rain and snow mix coming to Portland metro area this weekend
A mix of rain and snow is expected to hit much of the Portland metro area as snow levels dip this weekend.

Oregon needs to build 29,500 more homes each year, chief economist says
Oregon is facing a significant housing shortage, needing to construct about 29,500 additional homes annually, primarily in the Portland region and Willamette Valley.
Albany teachers celebrate wins for class size, prep time and compensation following 3-week strike
Teachers returned to work Tuesday, with a two-hour delay for students.
Willamette Valley vineyards seek $11 million in damages from utilities for 2020 Holiday Farm Fire
The vineyards claim the smoke and ash from the fire damaged their grape harvest and sales.

Oregon issues permit for large chicken farm in Linn County. Locals will likely challenge it
Oregon agriculture regulators issued a permit for a large chicken farm in Linn County Thursday. That follows years of strong local push back from some residents and farmers.

Willamette National Forest reopens more recreation sites as wildfires wane in Lane County
U.S. Forest Service officials recently reduced closures around multiple fires in Lane County, restoring access to large areas of land used for hiking, hunting and recreation, including popular sites around the Blue River Reservoir.