Food Safety & Recall: Oregon-based PT Organics Limited recalled select Pumpkin Tree Peter Rabbit Organics Banana & Strawberry 4 oz. fruit purée pouches sold at Target, Kroger and Meijer nationwide after a packaging defect may leave a soft, food-grade plastic strand in the pouch. Wildfire Impacts on Oregon Roads: State agencies are warning drivers that wildfire smoke is worsening visibility and air quality, with closures and detours already affecting travel; officials urge travelers to prep cars, plan routes and carry emergency kits. Public Lands Funding: A federal fund supporting repairs at national parks and other Oregon public lands has expired, putting major infrastructure projects at risk and raising concerns about deferred maintenance and jobs tied to tourism. Higher Ed & Workforce: Southern Oregon University released its final Vitality Plan, aiming for long-term sustainability by June 2027, including cutting 60.6 faculty/staff positions and ending its Music Industry and Production degree. Conservation Data: Adventure Scientists is expanding a model that trains outdoor volunteers to collect research-grade conservation data, including passive monitoring in remote Oregon forests. Local Business & Community: The Jefferson County Fair opened in Madras amid smoky conditions, highlighting Oregon agriculture and youth exhibitors; meanwhile, St. Anthony’s Crop Dusters Grill opened in an airport hangar, leaning into the aviation-and-farming crowd. Tech & Jobs: Intel plans another round of layoffs in its data-center chip division, reshaping the unit as the company continues to reduce headcount. Energy Grid Policy: A new “Ratepayer Protection Pledge” now covers about 80% of U.S. power, but analysts note real bill protection hinges on federal action, not the announcement.