‘ghost Gun’ Ban Takes Effect 9/1
Oregon’s new ban on “ghost guns” takes effect September 1. These firearms, which lack serial numbers and are often assembled from parts purchased separately, have raised significant safety concerns. According to Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum, ghost guns are increasingly used by criminals. The new law prohibits the possession of the un-serialized firearms and their […]
Read MoreRanchers Feeling the Effects of Fires
Eastern Oregon ranchers are facing significant losses due to a record wildfire season. This summer, more than 1.5 million acres have burned, including crucial grazing lands. Ranchers are grappling with the aftermath, including dead livestock, destroyed fences, and charred pastures. With hay costs soaring and displaced cattle needing new pastures, the economic toll is mounting. […]
Read MoreCaution Urged in School Zones
As the new school year begins, drivers in Oregon are reminded to adhere to school zone speed limits to ensure student safety. Remember, most school speed zones are active from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days. Motorists should reduce their speed to 20 mph in these areas, especially when flashing yellow lights are […]
Read MoreUnion County Approves ‘adas’
Union County has approved the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in four rural residential zones as part of its response to the ongoing housing crisis in Oregon. The decision, made last week by the Union County Board of Commissioners, was passed with a 2-1 vote. This move is aimed at increasing housing options in […]
Read MoreMorgan Lake Open Again
Morgan Lake has reopened to day use and overnight camping as of Wednesday. However, fires remain prohibited due to critically dry conditions. Portable cooking stoves are permitted. The reopening follows a slight decrease in regional fire danger, as announced by the Oregon Department of Forestry. For more information, contact the La Grande Parks & Recreation […]
Read MoreLa Grande Native Joins Local Police Force
La Grande native Kaden Chandler has officially joined the La Grande Police Department. Sworn in last Friday by Chief Gary Bell and City Recorder Stacey Stockhoff, Officer Chandler begins his new role with a strong commitment to community service. Known for his friendly demeanor and local ties, Chandler has been recognized for his dedication to […]
Read MoreFirefighters Needed
The U.S. Forest Service is actively recruiting for wildland firefighting positions across the Pacific Northwest. Recruitment events will be held in Bend, Sandy, and La Grande on September 12th, aiming to fill up to 200 permanent seasonal roles. The entry-level positions, which typically last six to nine months, are available in Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. […]
Read MoreCrashes Close Interstate 84
Interstate 84 was shut down in both directions after a series of disruptions on Tuesday. Initially, eastbound lanes were closed due to a crash near milepost 268, while westbound lanes were shut down between Baker City and Pendleton due to a wildfire near Exit 216. As of just after 7 last evening, both directions were […]
Read MoreNew Biking Website Launched
The Oregon Coast Visitors Association has launched a new biking website aimed at promoting cycling adventures. The site features information on mountain biking trails, as well as gravel routes mapped in partnership with Dirty Freehub. The site also highlights biking events and local resources and it seeks to enhance outdoor recreation and bolster small towns. […]
Read MoreKotek Aims for Harmony with Native Nations
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has made significant strides in her commitment to Native nations across the state, visiting eight of the nine federally recognized tribes and participating in the Tribal-State Government-to-Government Summit. In a recent interview, Kotek emphasized the need for improved sovereign-to-sovereign consultation and acknowledged the challenges of legislative timing for effective dialogue. She […]
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