The latest news stories of interest in the Rogue Valley and the state of Oregon from the digital home of Southern Oregon, Wynne Broadcastingโsย RogueValleyMagazine.com
Monday – September 8, 2025
Rogue Valley Weather
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
Kelsey Peak Fire 9/8/25 AM Update: Oregon Department of Forestry Team 1 assumes command of Kelsey Peak Fire, rain and cooler temperatures in forecast
LOWER ROGUE RIVER CORRIDOR, Ore. โ Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Complex Incident Management Team 1, Incident Commander Dan Quinones, assumed command of the Kelsey Peak Fire today at 6:00 a.m. Resources from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Medford District and ODF Southwest Oregon District have made significant progress constructing containment lines on the Kelsey Peak Fire since it was sparked by lightning last week. The fire is burning on BLM administered lands in rugged terrain with dense vegetation, limited access, and large overstory trees north of the Rogue River along the Kelsey Creek drainage.
Transitioning command of the fire to Team 1 brings additional capacity and resources to the incident and allows local firefighters to rest and be available to respond to new fires. The weather forecast for the week includes cooler temperatures, precipitation and the threat of more lightning.
Fire crews today will take advantage of the cooler, damp weather to further strengthen existing control lines, identify potential features and points to establish direct control lines, and building line adjacent to the fireโs edge, minimizing fire size. Smoky conditions have limited the use of aircraft on the fire over the last several days, as conditions allow, they will be used to support firefighters on the ground. Eight helicopters are assigned to the incident.
On the west side of the fire, control lines will be extended with bulldozers south from BLM Road 32-9-14.2, while firefighters look for opportunities to build direct line along the southern edge of the fire. Overnight, access to the northeast corner of the fire was improved as bulldozers worked to open a roadway for firefighter travel. Better access to this area of the fire will allow construction of direct control line along the northern edge of the fire and the east side of the fire working south toward the East Fork of Kelsey Creek.
โWe have a window of opportunity to take strong action on the fire,โ commented Incident Commander Quinones during the day shift planning meeting. โModerated fire behavior will allow us to go after the fire in its existing footprint.โ
While focusing on the full suppression operational objectives of the incident, special consideration will be given to the protection of cultural and historic resources in the area, public and firefighter safety, and minimizing impacts to the natural characteristics of the Rogue River and its tributaries. The Rogue River remains open for permitted boaters, however firefighting activities in the area could cause delays.
Firefighting resources from the Kelsey Peak Fire are available to support local agencyโs initial attack of new wildfires.
Closures: The Rogue River Trail is closed from Horseshoe Bend to Flora Dell. A temporary closure of a portion of the Grave Creek to Marial Backcountry Byway (BLM Road 32-9-14.2) has been implemented by the BLM Grants Pass Field Office. The public is strongly encouraged to avoid the entire Byway to facilitate safe firefighter access on the steep, narrow, windy road. Members of the public may not enter closed areas, and all usesโincluding hiking, hunting and dispersed campingโare prohibited. Please see the map for full closure information on the BLM website: https://www.blm.gov/…/oregon-washington/fire-restrictions
Evacuations: The Curry County Sheriffโs Office issued a Level 3 โ GO NOW evacuation order for the area of Rogue River Ranch, Tucker Flat Campground and the nearby area of Marial. The Josephine County Sheriff’s Officeโs and Josephine County Emergency Management issued a Level 1 โ BE READY evacuation notice Zone JCU-801. More info: https://tinyurl.com/KelseyPeakEvacs
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): A โTFRโ is in place at an altitude from the surface up to and including 7,000 feet, daily (24 hours) until further notice. Complete information is available at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_5_8274
Flying a drone near or around a wildfire compromises the safety of pilots and interferes with firefighting efforts.
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐: ODF CIMT 1 in-briefed on Kelsey Peak Fire, firefighters continue steady progress on the line
The Puck Fire (#414) is burning three miles southeast of Bailey Falls. Smokejumpers from fire #412 (The Honeymoon Fire) are also working this fire. It is approximately one-tenth of an acre.The Honeymoon Fire (#412) is located 1.5 miles east of Bailey Falls. It is one quarter acres, smoldering and creeping. Four smokejumpers are on scene.The Goose Fire (#410) is located 3 miles south of Union Peak. It is a single tree burning from a lightning strike with some fire around the base of the tree. It is burning in a thick snag patch that is extremely hazardous to firefighters on the ground. It did receive some precipitation today and firefighters will assess this fire for safe access, utilizing aircraft to reduce fire activity as appropriate.The Varmint Fire (#409) – outThe Ethel Fire (#407) is located four miles southeast of Imnaha Guard Station. It is estimated to be one-half acre. Six smokejumpers are on scene and there is line around the perimeter of the fire. Crews will be working on mop up today.The Bessie Fire (#406) is located 5 miles northeast of Imnaha Guard Station. It is approximately 4.3 acres. One hand crew and one engine are on scene. It has line around the entire perimeter. Crews are working to establish hose lays and secure mop up along the fires edge. The Alkali Fire (#404) is located less than one-half mile northeast of the Alkali Creek Falls Trailhead. It is approximately three-quarters of an acre. Galice Wildland Fire Module constructed line around the perimeter and have worked to secure this and create depth around the rest of the perimeter today. It is 50% contained.The Horse Fire (#405) – out The Ludlum Fire (#402) – out The Teel Fire (#411) is located less than one-half mile east of Teel Gap. It is one-tenth of an acre. Two engines are on scene and there is line around the entire perimeter of the fire. This fire is now controlled.Today Marks the Fifth Anniversary of the Almeda and South Obenchain Fires.
Bells to Ring in Phoenix at 11am
To all our first responders – thank you for showing up each day, ready serve the community however it needs. We know the job isn’t always easy, and we’re proud of your readiness to face every challenge and fight for the betterment of the community.
To our community – the resiliency and unity in the face of adversity inspires us. Thank you for trusting and supporting us, not just during the Almeda fire, but every day. We’re honored to serve you!Medford Fire Departmentย ย –
Ashland Oregon Police Departmentย ย ยทHomicide Investigation Case 25-1588
On September 7th, 2025, at 3:38 AM, Ashland Police Officers and Paramedics from Ashland Fire & Rescue (AFR) were dispatched to a report of person laying on the ground next to a vehicle near โAโ Street and North 2nd Street, Ashland. Officers arrived to find a male who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics confirmed the male was deceased upon their arrival, and a homicide investigation was initiated.
The Jackson County Major Assault/Death Investigation Unit was activated by Ashland Detectives, which brought personnel from the Medford Police Department, Oregon State Police, Jackson County Medical Examinerโs Office, Jackson County District Attorneyโs Office, and the Oregon State Police Crime Lab.
At this time, the investigation has revealed that the victim was inside his parked vehicle on โAโ Street, near North 2nd Street, when an unidentified suspect approached the vehicle and fired multiple rounds at the victim, striking him several times. The suspect can be seen on security camera footage from nearby businesses fleeing the scene toward North Pioneer Street on โAโ Street following the shooting. The suspect appeared to be wearing dark clothing.
It is not believed that this incident was random, as it appears this was a targeted attack on the victim. There is no indication of a specific public threat at this time. The victim has been identified as 40-year-old Matthew Mark Vandersande, of Ashland. Next of kin has been notified.
We are asking for the publicโs assistance to identify additional investigative leads. If you have any information that you feel may be helpful to the investigation, or you have surveillance cameras in the area that may have caught footage of the incident or suspect between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM, please contact Detective Sergeant Rick Spence at 541-552-2172 or the Ashland Police Department Tip Line at 541-552-2333.
Investigators have been informed that many people in the Ashland community knew Vandersande mainly by his vehicle, so a photograph of the vehicle has been included.Our condolences go out to the victimโs friends and family in this difficult time. Further information will be provided by the Jackson County District Attorneyโs Office.
Joint Child Exploitation Task Force Sweep Arrests Five Local Suspects for 39 Felony Counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse, Another Suspect Currently in Custody in Missouri Jail
JCSO Cases 23-4725, 23-4751, 24-0008, 24-2212, 24-2249, 24-2380, 24-3127
JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. โ The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) joint inter-agency task force arrested five suspects today, September 3, on a total of 39 encouraging child sexual abuse felony charges. Investigations led to arrests throughout Jackson County including addresses in Medford, Ashland, White City, and Eagle Point. Although the cases are not connected, total felony charges included 30 counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse, and nine counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. In total, SOCET discovered more than 800 images of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) during search warrants of the five suspects.
Each investigation began when SOCET received tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which led to subpoenas, followed by search warrants at the respective residences. Investigators seized digital devices during the searches and applied for additional warrants to examine the devices. Once the additional search warrants were signed, the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) forensically examined the devices for further evidence of child exploitation. At that point SOCET took each case through a Grand Jury hearing and the courts issued warrants for each suspectโs arrest.
The first arrest came in Eagle Point when SOCET went to a residence in the 400 block of Stevens Road in Eagle Point. The task force located and arrested Kevin Lee Bratton, 46, of Eagle Point, on 10 felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail. During the course of the investigation SOCET found Bratton had more than 100 CSAM images.
Next, the task force located a suspect at his residence in the 80 block of Pine Street in Ashland. The task force arrested Shale Tiercel Pagel, 34, of Ashland, for five felony counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail. SOCET found Pagel had 682 CSAM images.
The task force then located and arrested David Richard Lubina, 40, of Medford, during a traffic stop in White City. Lubina is charged with six felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged at the Jackson County Jail. Investigators initially served a search warrant at his former residence in the 1100 block of Gate Park Drive in Medford. The investigation revealed Lubina had 13 images of CSAM.
The next arrest came when SOCET investigators located Brandon Scott Matlock, 39, of Eagle Point, at his residence in the 6500 block of Shadow Glen Road in rural Eagle Point. Matlock is charged with nine felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail. During the SOCET investigation Matlock was found with 15 CSAM images in his possession.
The final arrest for the sweep came when investigators contacted Margarito Baldazo Banuelos II, 19, of Medford, at his residence in the 200 block of Ivy Street in Medford. Banuelos is charged with four felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse, and three felony counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail. Previously, a NCMEC cyber tip led investigators to a residence in the 500 block of Talent Avenue in Talent where evidence was located. SOCET found Banuelos had 12 CSAM images.
One suspect is currently in custody at Taney County Jail in Missouri. Erik Thiel Rowe, 45, will be extradited back to Oregon to face two charges of first- and second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. Investigators initially served a search warrant in a converted school bus on a property in the 6500 block of Rogue River Highway in rural Grants Pass near the town of Rogue River. SOCET discovered Rowe had two CSAM images in his possession. Rowe also has an outstanding felony warrant for a probation violation for second-degree sex abuse.
Many local and federal law enforcement agencies assisted SOCET with todayโs arrests. These agencies included Jackson County Sheriffโs Office (JCSO), Oregon Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ODOJ ICAC), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Marshals Service Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force, Oregon State Police (OSP), Medford Police Department (MPD), Ashland Police Department, Central Point Police Department, Eagle Point Police Department, Talent Police Department, and SOHTCTF.
Video Interview available for download:ย https://vimeo.com/1115649861?share=copy#t=0
SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, MPD, ODOJ ICAC, and HSI, as well as prosecutors from our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson and Josephine County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, and MPD.
ONE YEAR LATER: Sheriffโs Detectives, Search & Rescue Still Searching for Missing Prospect Woman Deenah Padgett; Looking for Public Help
The Jackson County Sheriffโs Office (JCSO) is askingย for help identifying the owner a motorhome.ย It could be associated with a missing person from the Prospect area.
ย JCSO says 68-year-old Deenah Padgett has been missing since August 30 from Prospect, described as a white woman, 4โ 8โ 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 Padgettโs whereabouts to call Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatch non-emergency phone number at 541-776-7206.
Rare Aedes Mosquitoes Found in Jackson County
Aedes aegyptiย (Ae. Aegypti) mosquitoes have been discovered again in Jackson County, a year after Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the county announced the species had been found for the first time in the state.
OHA, Jackson County Vector Control and Jackson County Public Health confirmed the identification ofย Ae. aegyptiย as part of routine mosquito surveillance.
Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., state public health veterinarian in OHAโs Public Health Division, said the repeat appearance ofย Ae. aegyptiย in Oregon is a concern because the species has been more common in much warmer climates of the United States, Southeast Asia, Africa and the Pacific Islands.
โThese mosquitoes have been known carry and transmit diseases that are more typical to warmer climates, such as Zika virus, chikungunya, dengue and yellow fever,โ DeBess said. These viruses spread to humans through the bite of an infectedย Ae. aegyptiย mosquito, he said.
The mosquitoes become infected when they bite and feed on someone who is infected with the virus. They primarily feed in the daytime and prefer to feed on humans.
However, DeBess emphasized that the risk of these infections to local residents is low. โAcquiring these diseases depends on the presence or arrival of someone who is currently infected with one of the diseases after infection outside the United States,โ DeBess said. โAs was the case whenย Ae. aegyptiย mosquitoes were first found in Oregon in 2024, there have been no reports of anyone having acquired viruses associated withย Ae. aegyptiย from within the state.โ
Routine mosquito surveillance monitors different mosquito populations in the county and tests for diseases such as West Nile virus and Western equine encephalitis that are common to theย Culexย mosquito genus. It also gives Jackson County Vector Control the ability to determine human risk and implement strategies to control these insects and prevent disease spread.
Adultย Ae. aegyptiย mosquitoes are relatively small and have a black-and-white pattern due to the presence of white/silver scale patches against a black background on the legs and other parts of the body.ย Ae. aegyptiย mosquitoes most likely originated in Africa. Since then, the species has been transported globally throughout tropical and subtropical regions, and parts of the temperate world, through global trade and shipping activities.
Ae. aegyptiย cannot fly farโonly about 500 feet. These mosquitoes prefer warm and wet weather, and to live in or near homes or in neighboring woods. Changes in climate are allowingย Ae. aegyptiย mosquitoes to expand their range to the western United States.
A Medford Attorney is currently facing numerous charges of invasion of privacy along with a single charge of unlawful use of a GPS device.
NewsWatch 12 in MEdford has acquired court documents that allege local Attorneyย Zachary Lightย is facing 19 criminal charges, as police claim he violated the personal privacy of a woman in 2023. Zachary Light practices as a criminal defense and civil plaintiff attorney in Medford. The allegations detailed in the court documents include recording a woman during private moments and also involve a misdemeanor charge for unlawfully placing a GPS device on her vehicle.
District Attorney Patrick Green remarked, โHe was arrested yesterday afternoon. He was arraigned on Friday morning.โ
Following an investigation, NewsWatch 12 found that Light was previously convicted in 2014 of a misdemeanor for installing a camera in his stepdaughterโs bedroom without her consent.
The Oregon State Bar subsequently suspended his license for a period of 7 months, and he was placed on probation for 3 years. DA Patrick Green stated, โWe recommended a bail amount of $100,000 due to the number of charges and his prior conviction.โ
The Applegate Valley is preparing to host one of its most ambitious cultural celebrations yet as Jacksaphine Count(r)y Fair Week returns this fall.
Running from September 19 through September 28, 2025, the ten-day festival promises an eclectic mix of food, art, music, sports, and outdoor adventures that highlight both the creativity and resilience of this rural region.
Although the Applegate Valley spans two separate countiesโJackson and Josephineโthe event embraces the shared identity of its people. The name โJacksaphine,โ coined by Grants Pass resident Ernest Adam, reflects the spirit of unity that binds the area despite administrative borders. For residents, the fair is less about county lines and more about celebrating the land and lifestyle they hold in common.
This yearโs fair is being organized by A Greater Applegate, a nonprofit dedicated to community development and cultural engagement. The group has brought together local farmers, winemakers, artists, musicians, and volunteers to craft a schedule that blends entertainment with education, and fun with local heritage. The result is a sprawling program that touches nearly every facet of rural life in Southern Oregon.
The opening night, scheduled for September 19 at Longsword Vineyard, sets the tone with a vibrant mix of wine, live entertainment, and even paragliding pilots descending in costume. Performances from jugglers, musicians, and a burlesque act are all planned, alongside bocce ball in the vineyard. From there, the fair branches into a series of daily activities designed to appeal to a wide audience.
On September 20, the Applegate Paddling Club will host a morning of kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding on Applegate Lake, followed by coffee and pastries. Later that day, the Upper Applegate Grange will hold a harvest festival featuring food vendors, seasonal produce, and community activities in a hall that locals are working to restore after years of closure.
The following days continue in a similar fashion, offering a rotating selection of experiences. Residents can enjoy a vineyard bike ride paired with live music on September 21, a pepper roasting and farmersโ market dinner on September 22, and a dark-sky event on September 23 where astronomy and wildlife experts will lead discussions under the stars at the Provolt Recreation Site.
As the week progresses, the fair moves into expanded community markets, ranch-style barbecues, and even competitive sports. September 27 will feature the first-ever Applegate Open pickleball tournament at Wood Racquet Ranch, offering double-elimination play on custom courts along the river. That same day, visitors will have their choice of poetry readings at Red Lily Vineyard, a music festival at the Applegate Library, or a full harvest fair at Pacifica Gardens, once owned by musician Steve Miller.
The final day on September 28 will close out the week at Wooldridge Creek Winery, where local art, wine, and artisan cheeses will be showcased in a vineyard setting. It is designed to be a reflective, community-oriented finale, tying together the themes of food, agriculture, and creativity that run throughout the festival.
More than a series of events, the Jacksaphine Count(r)y Fair is also a demonstration of place-making and grassroots energy. The Applegate Valley is known for its vineyards, outdoor recreation, and artistic community, but it is also a region that has fought to maintain its identity in the face of economic and demographic changes. By blending paragliding with poetry, barbecue with astronomy, and pickleball with live music, the festival offers a portrait of a community determined to honor both tradition and innovation.
Support from local farms, businesses, and wineries ensures that the fair is as much about strengthening economic ties as it is about cultural celebration. Each ticket purchased and each meal shared contributes to the sustainability of the valleyโs small producers and artisans.
For many residents, the festival has become a signature moment of the year, drawing visitors from surrounding towns and counties while reaffirming the connections that exist within the valley itself. Whether through the laughter of a community barbecue, the quiet of a dark-sky walk, or the competition of a pickleball match, the Jacksaphine Count(r)y Fair serves as a reminder of what can be accomplished when neighbors unite.
Information on tickets, registration, and the complete schedule of events is available through A Greater Applegate atย www.agreaterapplegate.org.
The Oregon Vortex tourist attraction located in Gold Hill has announced a closure that may extend for the remainder of the year.
The Oregon Vortex offers guided tours through a site rich in history and mystery. Staff members have indicated that the area is partially above ground and partially below ground, leading to unusual phenomena. However, due to urgent repairs that are required, the well-known attraction is currently closed. As stated on their Facebook page, engineers and contractors have reported that the rocks from the nearby Sardine Creek pose a risk to both the gift shop and visitors.
Repairs can only take place from June to September 15th, due to the presence of a protected salmon habitat. Consequently, the Vortex will remain closed for the rest of the year or until it is deemed safe to reopen. For updates, you can visit the Oregon Vortex Facebook page.
Popular Jewelry and Metalsmithing Classes Return to RCC
More Ceramics Classes Offered at RCC Redwood Campus This Fall
Pacific Flats in Phoenix is Now Leasing Apartments
Community leaders, partners, and residents celebrated the opening of the 72-unit multifamily community at 4019 South Pacific Highway last month. The affordable housing project was co-developed by Commonwealth Development Corporation and NOWIA Unete.
Its focus is on giving low-income families a place to call home, while also partnering with ACCESS and Unete to provide 2020 fire survivors a path to find adequate housing.
Pacific Flats is an income restricted property. Residents must meet these income limits to qualify for homes at Pacific Flats. Section 8 vouchers are accepted.
The community includes a clubhouse with amenities such as a community room, business center, and fitness center. The property is now leasing two- and three-bedroom apartments equipped with energy-efficient appliances.ย Those interested in applying can visitย cascademanagement.com.
Volunteers are being sought for a range of activities, including a Naturalization Ceremony, project weekend, Ride the Rim, and the groupโs annual meeting.
For further information and/or to register, please contact Karen Walters at karen@friendsofcraterlake.org. Volunteers are needed.
Volunteers are also required for the annual Rim the Rim event, during which 25 miles of East Rim Drive, from its junction with the North Entrance Road to park headquarters, will be closed to motorized vehicles from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on two Saturdays, September 6 and 13. This event presents challenges due to significant elevation gains.ย For additional information and to register, please contact Ann McCaughan atย ann@friendsofcraterlake.org.
The Fair May Be Once a Yearโฆ But Fair School is All Year Long!
From bacon to bread, jams to jerky โ learn from the people who know their stuff.
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Class Line-Up:
Sept 13 โ Bacon & Sausage Basics
Oct 11 โ Canning Meat
Nov 8 โ Gifts from the Kitchen
Dec 6 โ Basic Candy Making
Jan 10 โ Soup & Bread Making
All classes held in the Community Education Auditorium.
Registration required โ sign up now on the Fairgrounds website!
www.josephinecountyfairgrounds.com/fair-school
When it comes to wildfire, the ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ป ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐บ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐ต๐ผ๐บ๐ฒ can make all the difference.
Ember-resistant vents
Sealed gaps and screens
Fire-resistant landscaping
Noncombustible siding or roofing materials
Ready to take the first step? https://firebrandcollective.org/assessments/Win 2 Nights Lodging in Oakridge and enjoy โOakridge Rocks The Park!โ! Coming Oct 18th!
Click here to win 2 nights stay in Oakridge!ย โโย Click here for more info on the event.
Young Entrepreneurs of Jackson County! Did the 2020 wildfires set your business back? Need a boost to grow your hustle?
IVCanDO has grants of up to $15,000 for microbusinesses (5 or fewer employees) impacted by the fires.
Whether youโre running a shop, creative studio, food truck, or anything in between โ this is for YOU.
๐๐น๐ถ๐ด๐ถ๐ฏ๐ถ๐น๐ถ๐๐:
Must be in Jackson County
Must have been affected or be addressing impacts caused by the 2020 Labor Day fires (South Obenchain and Almeda)
Use the money for gear, staff, or anything to level up your biz
๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐น๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐ ๐ผ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ป ๐ก๐ข๐ช. ๐๐ผ๐ปโ๐ ๐บ๐ถ๐๐ ๐ถ๐!
๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐น๐ ๐ฎ๐:ย www.ivcdo.org/pier
๐ค๐๐ฒ๐๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐? ๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฎ๐ถ๐น ๐ฝ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ฟ@๐ถ๐๐ฐ๐ฑ๐ผ.๐ผ๐ฟ๐ด
The Illinois Valley Community Development Organization (IVCanDO) has received $950,000 through Oregon Housing and Community Services’ PIER Program as part of the ReOregon disaster recovery effort.
Microenterprise Grants โ Up to $15,000 Revolving Loan Fund โ for business growth and recovery (coming soon!)
๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ป ๐ ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ & ๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐น๐ ๐ป๐ผ๐: www.ivcdo.org/pier
๐ฆ๐ต๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ถ๐ ๐๐ถ๐๐ต ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ฒ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ผ ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐ ๐ถ๐!
Sharing for our friends atย Salvation Army:
ย Help Fill Our Food Pantry โ Your Donations Make a Difference!ย 
ย Most Needed Items:ย Canned vegetables & fruitsย Rice & pastaย Peanut butter & jellyย Cereal & oatmealย Soup & canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans)ย Drop-off Location: 922 N. Central Avenue Medford, OR 97501
ย Hours: 9am-3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
The Addictions Recovery Center (ARC) in Medford is expanding its services with a new facility which is currently under construction. This will add 24 residential treatment beds to the ARCโs East Main Campus. See Video and Follow on Facebook:ย ย https://www.facebook.com/ARC541/videos/520525737735442
Ashland Rolls Out Free Pre-Approved Plans to Spur Residents into Building Affordable Backyard Homes
Seeking to promote affordability and support residentsโ 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.ย The meeting is geared towards helping you understand zoning requirements, building codes, and any other considerations for ADU projects.ย ย Find free City of Ashland ADU plans here
Did you get help from FEMA, insurance, or others after the 2020 Almeda and South Obenchain Fires?
OHCS HARP Website โย bit.ly/45bHjzu
ย https://firebrandcollective.org/harp/
ย Many pets have benefited from the communityโs generosity, and we canโt thank you enough for your kindness.David Grubbsโ Murder Investigation Remains Active
ย The Ashland Police Departmentโs 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.
Itโs Been Five Years Since Fauna Frey Vanished Without A Trace Inย Josephine County
Itโs been 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 brotherโs 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 Faunaโs disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved. Faunaโs disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, includingย Nowhere to be Found,ย Here One Minute, Gone the Next, andย 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 Sheriffโs Office
- Tip line: (541) 359-5638
- Email:ย FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com
Currrently there is aย $50,000 CASH REWARDย for information leading to the location of Fauna Frey.ย LARGE CASH REWARDSย are being offered for any other relevant information, such as any objects that could be identified as Faunaโs, i.e. her wallet, keys, or Indian/Buffalo .999 silver bullion coins. Find Fauna Frey Facebook Group:ย https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132
PART 2ย โย Newsweek Podcast Focusing on The Disappearance of Fauna Frey From Lane County
Here One Minute, Gone the Nextย โโ PART 2 โ Josephine County Sheriff Dave Daniel joins investigative journalist Alex Rogue to speak with Here One Minute, Gone the Next about the disappearance of Fauna Frey, the growing friction between citizen investigators and law enforcement, and the lack of resources in missing persons cases.ย https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-disappearance-of-fauna-frey-pt2-feat-sheriff/id1707094441?i=1000630100040ย PART 1 โ John Frey joinsย Newsweekย to discuss exclusive details about the case of his missing daughter that until now have been unavailable to the general public. READ MORE HERE:ย https://www.newsweek.com/exclusive-what-happened-fauna-frey-new-clues-uncovered-1827197?fbclid=IwAR3Z3Glru5lIgqiYXbs_nA1Fj8JuCIzM11OHSVHfwIucfq2f_G5y9y5bnmQย If you have any information on the whereabouts of Fauna Frey, call the anonymous tip line at 541-539-5638 or emailย FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com.ย ย โ-ย ย ย Help Find Fauna Frey #FindFaunaFreyย FACEBOOK GROUP
Oregon Food Bank
Hunger in Oregon is rising โ and federal and state cuts to food assistance are making it worse. In 2024, visits to food programs grew 31%, yet resources to meet this need are shrinking.
Programs like SNAP, which help 1 in 8 Oregonians put food on the table, are facing deep cuts โ leaving more families, children, veterans, and elders to make impossible choices between food, safety, and shelter.
We need policies that protect access to food for all our neighbors. Because no one should have to choose between staying safe and going hungry.
Food is available for those who need it and by entering your zip code atย OregonFoodFinder.orย -You can see each local programโs contact information, hours of operation and what kind of distribution it is.
We partner with 1,200+ free food markets, pantries and meal sites all across Oregon and Southwest Washington โ and welcome anyone and everyone who needs food.ย OregonFoodFinder.org
There are now more unemployed people than there are jobs available in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The situation in Oregon is even worse. The state ranked third for the most unemployment claims per 100,000 people in the workforce last week, according to aย recent WalletHub report.
The unemployment rate is the percentage of people in the labor force who are actively looking for work but not currently employed. Itโs a common way to measure the health of the job market and economy.
U.S. unemployment has experienced fluctuations and a small overall rise over the past year. Most recently, the job market continued to falter, with new unemployment claims increasing by 3.5% week-over-week on August 25.
There are currently 7.24 million job seekers and 7.18 million open positions, according to the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, or JOLTS report.
For the week of Aug. 25, unemployment claims increased more than 12% over the previous week. Oregon unemployment claims were also more than 30% higher than the same period last year.
Compared with other states, Oregon ranked sixth for states where unemployment claims increased the most over the previous week.
Connecticut topped the list, and it also saw the most claims per 100,000 people in the workforce. California ranked second for claims per 100,000 workers, and Oregon was third, followed by New Jersey and New York.
The District of Columbia had the most significant difference, with a more than 105% change in unemployment claims year-to-date, compared with the same period last year.
Oregonโs unemployment rate hit 5%ย for the first time since the pandemic in August. According to theย state unemployment dashboard, Oregon lost 2,700 jobs in July. More than 39,000 weekly claims were submitted from Aug. 24 to Aug. 30.
Unemployment rates in Oregon counties ranged from 3.6% to 7.4% in June 2025.
In Oregon, Josephine County, OR had the highest unemployment rate at 7.4%. Wheeler County, OR had the lowest at 3.6%. Multnomah County, OR, the county with the largest labor force in the state, had an unemployment rate of 5.1%. The latest county-level data is from June 2025.
Oregonโs average gas price increased this week, rising to approximately $4.08 per gallon, according to AAA, which noted a 7-cent increase.ย This rise is part of a broader national trend, with the U.S. average also increasing by 6 cents this week.ย ย
Oregon medical leaders say theyโre seeing an uptick in COVID cases across the state.
The Oregon Health Authority reports that August saw the highest COVID test positivity rates of the yearโwith some weekly rates that were more than seven times higher than this yearโs low point in January.
Lane Countyโs Senior Public Health Officer, Dr. Patrick Luedtke, said the virus appears to be less prevalent in Oregon than in California or Washington, based on wastewater data. But he said heโs predicting another potential increase in cases this month.
โWe have states above us and below us with higher volume of disease. We have just returned to school. Thereโs rain in the schedule at about a week from now, and people are going to be inside breathing the same air,โ said Luedtke. โThis is not rocket science.โ
Luedtke said people who get sick should wear a mask in public, stay home if they can, and have a respiratory plan in place with their medical provider if theyโre at high-risk.
He said he expects COVID vaccines to be available in Oregon this fall, despite changing federal guidance. Heโs advising people to get their booster.
โI suspect thereโs a lot of people whose immunity has waned because they didnโt get the booster last year,โ said Luedtke. โThey probably didnโt get COVID in the last 12 months, because we havenโt had tons of it, and theyโre going to be at risk for an infection this fall. So now is the time.โ
Luedtke said it may be harder to locate somewhere with vaccines in stock this year, and some people may have to pay out-of-pocket if their insurance doesnโt over a booster.
The Food and Drug Administrationย has only approved the newest vaccinesย for people 65-and-older, or who have underlying conditions that put them at-risk. Oregon has now joinedย a West Coast allianceย to develop separate vaccination guidelines. (SOURCE)
Oregon Community Foundation Invests Another $120,000ย in Disaster Readiness and Recovery
Grants Mark Five-Year Anniversary of Labor Day Fires with Focus on Preparedness
Five years after the Labor Day megafires devastated parts of Oregon, 11 nonprofits are receiving new funding to help communities continue to recover and prepare for future disasters. Oregon Community Foundation today announced $120,000 in new grants from its Disaster Readiness and Response Fund.
The fund is an initiative that emerged from the 2020 wildfires. It provides rapid-response grants for immediate recovery and supports preparedness programs that help build more resilient communities. As a collective giving fund, anyone can contribute to it. An earlier fund to support wildfire recovery after the 2020 fires distributed $10.8 million over several years.
โThe fires of 2020 changed Oregon forever โ but they didnโt define us,โ said Kim Koenig, Director of Statewide Community Programs and Disaster Resilience at OCF. โOregonians came together then, and weโre coming together now to prepare for the future. Weโre not just remembering what happened five years ago. Weโre reimagining how Oregon shows up for each other long into the future.โ
Devastating Megafiresย โ The Labor Day fires that began on September 7, 2020 were fueled by high winds and dry conditions that resulted in 1.2 million acres burned, more than 4,000 homes destroyed and 11 deaths. The fires displaced thousands of Oregonians and left widespread destruction across the state, with major impacts in the Santiam Canyon, the McKenzie River corridor and southern Oregonโs Rogue Valley.
The new grants support collaborative, community-based organizations that coordinate resources and services for long-term readiness and resilience in seven Oregon counties affected by the 2020 wildfires: Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Linn and Marion.
Recovery Continuesย โ The funding also reflects the ongoing impact of the Almeda Fire in southern Oregon. Grants will support nonprofits that continue to serve survivors, including Talent Maker City, Rogue Food Unites, Firebrand Resiliency Collective, Coaliciรณn Fortaleza and United Way of Jackson County.
One person who experienced the devastation firsthand and worked on multiple fronts to respond is Dee Anne Everson, President and Executive Director of United Way of Jackson County. Everson, who also sits on the Board of Directors of Oregon Community Foundation, says funding partners responding to the 2020 wildfires had to collaborate closely to serve communities effectively. Everson adds that those partnerships yielded critical lessons for the future.
โWe have to be prepared together,โ Everson said. โI think we certainly learned that. Itโs really important in the world of philanthropy to talk to people on the ground who are doing the work. You want to make sure that all of us โ wherever we are on the ground doing the work โ stay deeply interconnected.โ
Earlier this year, OCF issued grants to support recovery from flooding in Harney and Douglas Counties and wildfires in the Columbia River Gorge, along with disaster preparedness efforts in Douglas, Lake and Harney counties.
Learn more and donate to theย Disaster Readiness and Response Fundย of Oregon Community Foundation.
Full List of New Disaster Readiness and Response Grantees
Clackamas County Voluntary Organizationโs Active in Disaster | Oregon City | $10,000
Coaliciรณn Fortaleza | Medford | $10,000
Firebrand Resiliency Collective | Ashland | $10,000
Glide Revitalization | Glide | $10,000
Jackson County Community Long Term Recovery Group | Talent | $10,000
McKenzie Valley LTRG of Lane County | Blue River | $10,000
Rogue Food Unites | Ashland | $10,000
Santiam Memorial Hospital | Stayton | $20,000
Talent Maker City | Talent | $10,000
United Way of Jackson County | Medford | $10,000
United Way of the Klamath Basin | Klamath Falls | $10,000
About Oregon Community Foundationย โ
Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF strengthens communities in every county in Oregon through grantmaking, scholarships and research. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.
PLEASE Help Prevent Human-Caused Wildfires
9/8 โ 3 am โย #OregonFires#evacuations#firesย 5ย FIRES in EVALUATION MODE:93 Oregon Wildfiresย โ many are silent fires between 1 to 3 acres. These silent fires can quickly turn into dangerous fires. Please stay alert and ready.#crookcountyย โย Marks Creek Fire (0944) โ 1718 ACRES โ EVAC 3ย 
GO NOWย ย and LEVEL 2 (Be set) and LEVEL 1 ( Be Ready) 18% containmentย #GrantCountyBRIDGE FIREย ย โ 220 ACRES โ 15% containment โ LEVEL 2 (Be Set), LEVEL 1 (Be Ready)#wascocountyHIGHLAND FIREย ย 86 ACRES โ LEVEL 1 ( Be Ready)#josephinecounty#currycountyย KELSEY PEAK FIREย โ 685 ACRES โ 0% containmentย EVAC 3 ( GO NOW) and LEVEL 2 (Be set), and Level 1 ( Be set) BLACK ROCK FIRE (963)ย #wheelercounty#gilliamcounty#WascoCounty#ShermanCounty32,453 ACRES โ LEVEL 2 ( Be set), LEVEL 1 ( Be ready) 10% containment Silent Fires and Evacuations can change very quickly, so please stay alertย 
ย and safe. WILDFIRE MAP:ย 
https://www.arcgis.com/apps/instant/portfolio/index.htmlโฆCLICK FIREย ย LINKSย 
Oregon Dept of Emergency Managementย https://arcg.is/1vGHri1โโโโโโโโโโโโโโโโโโ-CLINK FIREย LINK THEN CLICK MAP TAB
https://geo.maps.arcgis.com/โฆ/a6c8f8e58ad642f4813732233โฆโโโโโโโโโโโโโโโโโCLINK FOR FIRESย ย https://experience.arcgis.com/โฆ/6329d5e4e13748b9b9f7f3โฆ/
Preventing wildfires requires a collective effort from everyoneโhelp mitigate the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our forests and communities.
Monitor Fires in Oregonย โ Updated Daily
Please Help Prevent Wildfires!
Learn how you can prevent wildfires by visiting theย Oregon State Fire Marshalโs wildfire prevention page.
Fatal Shooting at West 11th Walmart in Eugene
Last Update: Police Investigating shooting at Walmart Update on Saturday, September 6: The person who shot the firearm remained on scene and has been cooperative. The deceased is a 21-year-old man. Eugene Police is not naming him to give his family time. The investigation is continuing, and any tips can be directed to Detective Cliff Sites, 541.682. 5147.
Previous Information on September 5:At 5:18 p.m on September 5, Eugene Police responded to reports of a shooting in the W.11th Walmart parking lot. One person is deceased and their name is being withheld until family can be notified. Eugene Police Violent Crimes Unit is investigating and is seeking information and tips on any involved parties. If anyone has tips, they are asked to call Detective Cliff Sites at 541.682.5147Case 25-14478
Off-Duty Commercial Airline Pilot Pleads Guilty to Interfering with Flight Crew
PORTLAND, Ore.โJoseph David Emerson, 46, of Pleasant Hill, California, an off-duty commercial airline pilot, pleaded guilty today for attempting to shut down the engines of a passenger plane in flight.
According to court documents, on October 22, 2023, Emerson, an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot seated in a cockpit jump seat, attempted to shut down the engines of a commercial passenger plane traveling from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, California. After a brief physical struggle with Emerson, who quickly left the cockpit, the pilots diverted from their route and landed at Portland International Airport. Once on the ground, Port of Portland police officers placed Emerson under arrest.
On October 23, 2023, Emerson wasย charged by criminal complaintย with interfering with flight crew members and attendants.
Emerson faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
As part of the plea agreement, Emerson has agreed to pay restitution in full to the victims.
Emerson will be sentenced on November 17, 2025, before a U.S. District Court Judge.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, and Port of Portland Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Parakram Singh is prosecuting the case.
โHope in Motionโ event 9/13 to raise awareness on Oregonโs Vanished
The non-profitย Oregonโs Vanishedย hopes to shed some light on the missing individuals that continue to remain unsolved cases.
The public is invited to take part in the organizationโs โHope in Motionโ event on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Lynchwood Church of God in Southeast Portland.ย https://www.facebook.com/events/1403102080775307
Oregon has over 300 missing children, most from the Portland area. Every flyer shared, every child ID kit completed, and every prevention resource handed out can help save a life. Together, we can protect Oregonโs children.
Human trafficking has become a hot-button topic thatโs become a real-life issue in our local communities across Oregon and SW Washington. MORE INFO:ย https://www.oregonsvanished.org/
In a recent announcement from the office of Senate Majority Leader Kayse Jama, it was stated that due to Senator Chris Gorsekโs recovery from complications arising from a scheduled medical procedure, the Senate votes on HB 3991 and HB 3992 will be postponed until September 17.
Gorsek has played a significant role in transportation policymaking. In a statement issued by Governor Tina Kotek, Senator Gorsek was wished a swift recovery, and the Senateโs decision received support.
House Republican Leader Christine Drazan expressed her opposition to the recent approval of a $4.3 billion tax package by the Oregon House today. Drazan highlighted that 94% of Oregonians voiced their opposition to the package during public testimony. She condemned the choice to double payroll taxes on Labor Day while simultaneously raising the costs of gas and DMV services.
Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) commends a substantial investment aimed at assisting more low-income households in managing their utility expenses. In June, legislators approved House Bill 3792, which increased funding for the Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) from $20 million to $40 million.
Governor Tina Kotek enacted the bill, along with additional energy affordability legislation, into law yesterday. โย OEAP offers energy assistance to eligible customers of Portland General Electric and Pacific Power, determined by household size and annual income.
Since its inception in 1999, OEAP has aided over 85,000 customers, with 92% of participants successfully avoiding energy shutoffs. In light of the federal administrationโs announcement regarding possible reductions and the elimination of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Oregon lawmakers took action to protect residents from this uncertainty by broadening the state-funded OEAP.
LIHEAP, which delivers grants and energy efficiency services to millions across the nation, has become a crucial support system for families.
ASTORIA, Oregon โ ASTORIA, Oregon โ The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will convene Sept. 16-17 in Astoria, Oregon.ย ย
On Sept. 16, commissioners will tour Fort Stevens in the morning and conduct a work sessionย 1 to 3 p.m. about the Reimagine State Parks strategic initiative and a rate review.
On Sept. 17, commissioners will convene an executive session at 8:30 a.m. at the Astoria Elks Lodge #180, 453 11thย St. in Astoria to discuss real estate and legal issues. Executive sessions are closed to the public. A business meeting will begin at 9:45 a.m. and will be open to the public.
Anyone may attend or listen to the business meeting. To watch the business meeting, go to the livestream on theย OPRD Directorโs Office YouTube channel.
The business meeting also includes time for informal public comments related to any items not on the agenda. Registration is required to speak at the meeting if attending online, and is available online atย https://bit.ly/registersep2025commission
The deadline for registering to speak at the meeting virtually is 5 p.m., Sept. 12. No advance registration is required to speak in person at the meeting. Time per speaker is limited to three minutes. Please submit written public comments by 5 p.m. Sept. 12 toย OPRC.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.govย
The full agenda and supporting documents are posted onย this webpageย and will be posted on theย commission web page.ย ย
Notable requests:ย
- Request to adopt recommended grants for 2025 Local Government Grant Program (LGGP):
- Large Grantsย totaling $15,707,853
- Small Grantsย totaling $1,101,673
- Planning Grantsย totaling $450,000
- Request to adoptย ATV sound and equipment rulesย after rulemaking responsibility was transferred from Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).
- Request to adoptย Public Contract and Procurement Rulesย to outline OPRDโs public contracting and procurement requirements. Senate Bill 838 exempts OPRD from the Public Contracting Code except for surplus property and information technology relatedโฏprocurement.
- Request to adopt rules aboutย Special Assessment for Historic Propertyย in response to House Bill 3190, which reauthorizes the program as a 10-year benefit for commercial, income-producing historic properties.
Anyone needing special accommodations to attend the meeting should contact Denise Warburton, commission assistant, at least three days in advance:ย denise.warburton@oprd.oregon.govย or 503-779-9729.
Register Now for 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference
Registration is now open for theย 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference, the stateโs largest gathering dedicated to honoring and supporting women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The biennial event, hosted by the Oregon Department of Veteransโ Affairs, will bring together women veterans from across Oregon for a weekend of connection, resources and recognition.
The event is free and open to all women veterans, but registration is required. The 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference is being held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Riverhouse Lodge in Bend, which was the planned location of the 2020 event that was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
โThis yearโs theme, โStronger Together: Community and Connection,โ reflects the heart of what this conference is all about,โ said Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, director of the Oregon Department of Veteransโ Affairs. โWomen veterans have long served with distinction, strength and resilience โ often in the face of tremendous challenges and barriers.
โThis conference is an opportunity to honor our service, share our stories, and ensure every woman who has worn the uniform feels seen, valued and supported. We are stronger when we stand together, and united, we will continue to drive the ODVA mission forward.โ
The Oregon Women Veterans Conference began nearly 30 years ago as a grassroots effort by a small group of women veterans seeking connection, support, and resources. Since the first event in 1998, the conference has grown into a unique statewide gathering that brings together women veterans from across Oregon to access benefits, build meaningful connections, and amplify their voices.
The 2025 conference will continue that legacy with inspiring keynote speakers, engaging workshops, fantastic networking opportunities and assistance for women veterans connecting to the full range of benefits and resources they have earned. It is a supportive space where women who have served can connect, grow, and thrive beyond their military service.
This yearโs keynote speaker is Erin McMahon, director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and a retired U.S. Army brigadier general, attorney and combat veteran. During her 24-year career in the U.S. Army, McMahon served as the principal deputy general counsel for the National Guard Bureau, advising senior leaders through a wide variety of domestic disaster responses and serving as the first female Army National Guard general officer in the Office of the General Counsel.
Registration is free and may be completed online atย www.eventbrite.com/e/odva-women-veterans-conference-tickets-1407725487829. Community sponsors and donors are the primary sources of funding for this event and help ensure all women veterans can attend the conference free of charge.
Registration for the Women Veterans Conference covers the event only; attendees are expected to make their own lodging and travel arrangements. More information about the Women Veterans Conference, including local lodging, donations and sponsorship opportunities, can be found online atย wvc.oregondva.com.
Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veteransโ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregonโs diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online atย oregon.gov/odva.
Oregon Department of Veteransโ Affairs
No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veteransโ 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 Oregonโs 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 veteransโ 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 visitย https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93ย 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, itโs vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Hereโs how you can prepare and respond:
ย Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio
- Why it matters: Emergency radios can receiveย Emergency Alert System (EAS)ย broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequenciesโeven when cell towers and the internet are down.
- Note:ย Emergency radiosย do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)ย like cell phones do.ย 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 sureย Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)ย are enabled in your phoneโs settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
- WEA messages are sent through cell towersโif 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
- Saveย printedย orย downloaded evacuation mapsย in case you canโt access GPS or navigation apps.
- Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability toย โMake maps available offline.โย 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 theย TripCheck.comย website if you have cell service.
- Donโt wait for a notificationโif 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 ownย 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 usingย Wi-Fi callingย or aย satellite-connected phoneย (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on theย emergency addressย saved in your phoneโs settings.
- Update this emergency addressย when you travel or relocateโespecially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
- Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you areโinclude your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.
Sign Up for Alertsย Beforeย Thereโs an Outage
- Register forย OR-Alertย and yourย countyโs local alert system.
- Follow your local emergency management officialsโ and bookmark resources like:ย wildfire.oregon.gov.
ย Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps
- Know the three levels of evacuation:
- Level 1 โ Be Ready
- Level 2 โ Be Set
- Level 3 โ GO NOW
- If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasingโtake action even if you havenโt received an alert.
ย 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,ย community bulletin boards or fire stationsย 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. OEMโs Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. ***ย Update:ย 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.comย for road conditions
- Share verified infoโnot rumorsโon social media or community pages.
ย 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.
ย Final Tip:
In an emergency,ย CALL 9-1-1ย 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 OEMโsย Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.
Oregonโs Missing Persons
Many times youโll 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 donโt bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE wonโt care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
https://www.oregon.gov/osp/missing/pages/missingpersons.aspx
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1109674113319848
ย 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 websiteย https://www.safeoregon.com
Call us at 541-363-7503ย Or email us at Info@RogueValleyMagazine.com