Rogue Valley News, Friday 1/16 – Mt. Ashland Ski Area Pauses Operations Due to Low Snowpack, Seed & Plant Swap Saturday & Other Local and Statewide News Stories

The latest news stories of interest in the Rogue Valley and the state of Oregon from the digital home of Southern Oregon, Wynne Broadcasting’s RogueValleyMagazine.com

Friday – January 16, 2026

Rogue Valley Weather

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Active Weather Alerts National Weather Service

...AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 AM PST TUESDAY
WITHIN THE VALLEYS IN DOUGLAS, JOSEPHINE AND JACKSON COUNTIES...
...FREEZING FOG ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON PST TODAY...

* WHAT...For the Air Stagnation Advisory Within the valleys in
Douglas, Josephine and Jackson Counties, poor air quality will
continue. This is due to an inversion and stagnant air conditions
near the surface that will continue to trap pollutants. For the
Freezing Fog Advisory, visibility one quarter mile or less in
freezing fog.

* WHERE...For the Air Stagnation Advisory, Central Douglas County,
Eastern Curry County and Josephine County, and Jackson County. For
the Freezing Fog Advisory, the Illinois and Rogue valleys and the
Umpqua Basin.

* WHEN...For the Air Stagnation Advisory, until 10 AM PST Tuesday.
For the Freezing Fog Advisory, until noon PST today.

* IMPACTS...Poor air quality may cause issues for people with
respiratory problems. Low visibility could make driving conditions
hazardous.

https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php

 

Farmers' Almanac – Plan Your Day. Grow Your Life.Winter is here! Here’s the overview of our winter outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

 
An Air Stagnation Advisory also remains in place through the weekend, trapping cold air in the valley.
Plan for extra commute time as valley fog and freezing fog is ongoing. Some elevated surfaces may experience light icing as well from the freezing fog. 
 
 
 
 
 
We regret to inform our community that unfortunately, due to low snowpack, warm temperatures and no snow in the forecast, Mt. Ashland Ski Area is forced to pause ski operations indefinitely starting January 15, 2026. Season snowfall is down 63% and snowpack is down 71%. 😔
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Thank you always to our mountain community for bringing the stoke even under these circumstances. We are so grateful for the countless guests who approached us with smiles and kind words of encouragement. It kept us going as our teams worked so hard to open up terrain and keep what we could open. 🫶🏼❄️
Lift tickets, rentals and lessons purchased for the coming days will be refunded so if you have purchased, please keep an eye on your email inbox. 
If your child is involved in the School & Youth Group Learn-to-Ski Program, our School Group Program Coordinator will be contacting your Volunteer Coordinators in the event dates need to be adjusted.
In the meantime, pray for snow. We will miss you while we are closed and we truly can’t wait to see you on the Mountain again once we get some more snow! 🏔️
We will keep you all updated as we continue to monitor the forecast and snow levels!
 Check the Mt. Ashland Ski Area Mountain Report page for updates. To go to the page, click here, or call the “snow phone” at 541-482-2SKI (2754).
To go to the Mt. Ashland webcam, click here.

 

Mt. Ashland Chairlift Replacement Project U

Every ski area has one piece of infrastructure that quietly holds everything together. At Mt. Ashland, that piece is the Windsor chairlift. If Windsor goes down, the entire mountain feels it immediately. That’s why we’re talking about replacing it now.
Based on a recent routine inspection, vital components of Windsor Chairlift are at the end of their life. With the impending need to replace these crucial components and the seven figure expense of conducting those repairs, Mt. Ashland Association has deemed the replacement of Windsor Chairlift, the portal to our Mountain, the more time sensitive and critical upgrade.
With the deadlines for payments for the 2026 replacement of both chairs quickly approaching, unless the funds can be raised in time, the replacement of Windsor will take priority in 2026 with Ariel Chairlift following in 2027.
We know this is not ideal, but this tough decision will need to be made in order to sustain our Ski Area’s financial integrity.😔😭
And now we are asking for your support because this is the time to donate. The Mt. Ashland Association Board of Directors is currently matching donations up to $150,000 so right now your gift goes twice as far! That means your $50 becomes $100. Your $200 becomes $400. Your impact doubles—just when we need it most. It doesn’t matter how much because even a little truly goes a long way. 🥹🫶🏼https://www.facebook.com/MtAshlandSkiArea
 
 

May be an image of text that says 'FREE EVENT! 4th annual SEED & PLANT SWAP Saturday, January 17 from 11am-1pm Hosted at the KS Wild office 562A St. Ashland, OR Bring seeds & plant propagations to trade with your community, or just come to collect native seeds to plan for your 2026 garden! Native seeds & educational information provided by Pollinator Project Rogue Valley Plant propagation station Refreshments provided! CKS KS Wild Kamath- MicuWidandsCemer remam-lahhcuwidands.Camar ga dandscemer + Pollinater Project Roque Valley'

 

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Southern Oregon PBS has announced that it will persist in its operations despite significant transformations occurring in public broadcasting across the nation, following the recent decision by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to dissolve after Congress removed all of its federal funding.

Last summer, Congress sanctioned a rescissions package that retracted approximately $1.1 billion in funding that had been previously designated for PBS and NPR via CPB.

At that time, Southern Oregon PBS CEO Phil Meyer cautioned that these cuts would lead to “drastic changes,” highlighting that CPB funding constituted around 37% of the station’s yearly budget. Currently, Meyer indicates that these changes are already in progress — but not in the manner that many had anticipated.

Consequently, Southern Oregon PBS has successfully avoided layoffs and service reductions that have affected various public media stations in other parts of the country.

Meyer notes that viewer contributions now represent approximately 88% of the station’s financial resources.

Southern Oregon PBS Still on The Air Despite Federal Funding Loss

Southern Oregon PBS Information

 
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) voted to dissolve itself, due to the recent rescission of federal funding  after nearly six decades of distributing funds to public media stations across the nation.

PBS, PBS KIDS and local stations like SOPBS are still here, and we’re still serving you with programming that informs, connects, and strengthens our community. And now, more than ever, we need the support of Viewers Like You to keep going strong.  Protect the future of SOPBS at https://donate.sopbs.org/sopbs/donate
 

 

Phoenix Oregon Police Department

🗓 Weekly Activity Highlights – 01/09/2026 through 01/16/2026

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• 01/09/2026 0248 hours – Officers responded to the report of an overdose near the 100 block of S Church St, with reports saying a female was not awake or breathing. Officers arrived and were able to provide a life saving dose of Narcan as well as started CPR. The officers efforts resulted in the female living and medics were able to stabilize the female to be transported to a local area hospital.
• 01/09/2026 2012 hours – Officers responded to the area of 200 block of W 1st St for the report of a domestic dispute between a male and female, with them yelling at each other from the across the road. While en route, officers were told the female had climbed up on top of a vehicle and then that vehicle took off, flinging the female off. Officers arrived quickly and while the domestic disturbance did not result in any criminal action being taken, a stolen vehicle out of Medford was recovered in the driveway of the residence. The vehicle was recovered and all relevant investigative information turned back over to MPD.
• 01/12/2026 0124 hours (pictured) – An officer on patrol near the area of N Phoenix Road and Luman Road observed a vehicle with no headlights traveling towards him. The officer conducted a traffic stop and discovered the drivers license was suspended at the violation level, and he also had no insurance. During the stop, suspected meth and fentanyl were discovered that belonged to the driver. The driver was arrested and lodged at the Jackson County Jail for Unlawful Possession of Meth and Unlawful Possession of Fentanyl.
• 01/15/2026 0719 hours (pictured) – Officers responded to the report of a man refusing to leave his moms residence near the 1100 block of N Rose St. The male initially complied, leaving as requested. While officers sat nearby just after the male had left on foot, the male decided to return – twice. Officers caught up to the male trying to walk away quickly from the area once he saw officers were still nearby, and he was taken into custody. During the investigation, the male was found with suspected Xanax, and was lodged at the Jackson County Jail for Trespass 2 and Unlawful Possession of a Schedule IV Substance.
• 01/15/2026 2141 hours – An officer on patrol was conducting traffic enforcement near the area of N Main St and Bolz Rd when he spotted a vehicle conduct an improper right hand turn, resulting in a traffic stop. The driver was found to have two outstanding warrants out of Medford PD, both for Trespass 2. The driver was taken into custody for this warrants, and was given a warning for his driving behavior.

 

 

Jackson County Grand Jury Indicts Woman on 88 Felony Animal Abuse And Neglect ChargesEagle Point woman charged with 84 felony counts after 30 dogs found dead  and 54 in extreme conditions | News | kdrv.com

The Jackson County District Attorney’s Office announced that in the afternoon on January 13, 2026 the Jackson County Grand Jury indicted Jana Dene Tepper, 74, on one count of Aggravated Animal Abuse in the First Degree, 29 counts of Felony Animal Neglect in the First Degree, and 58 counts of Felony Animal Neglect in the Second Degree, for a total of 88 felony charges.

The charges follow a search warrant executed on January 6, 2025, at a residence in the 400 block of Crystal Drive in Eagle Point by the Eagle Point Police Department, where officers rescued 58 dogs and discovered 30 deceased dogs. Each charge corresponds to an individual animal found at the residence.

Ms. Tepper is scheduled to appear for arraignment on the indictment today at 1:45 PM. She remains in custody at the Jackson County Jail with bail set at $100,000. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Madelyn Reese. Due to the pending criminal proceedings, no further details will be released at this time.

 

Former Grants Pass Employee Pleads Guilty to Multiple Felony Sex Crimes

James Conway - Public Service driven Economic Development professional with  a passion for Economic and Community Development | LinkedIn

On January 13, Timothy James Conway, a former Grants Pass City employee, pleaded guilty to 3 Class B-Felony sex crimes falling under Encouraging Child Sex Abuse 2nd Degree.

As part of the global plea offer, 17 counts will be dismissed. He pleaded guilty in Josephine County Circuit Court before Judge Mathew Galli and will be sentenced Monday, February 2nd at 10 a.m.

James Conway, the economic development specialist for the city, had been placed on leave in June pending the outcome of an employment investigation. This comes after the city learned of criminal charges filed against Conway.

“As stewards of public trust, City employees are held to the highest moral and ethical standards,” the city of Grants Pass wrote in a statement. “In the weeks ahead, the City will determine the most appropriate steps forward once an investigation has been completed.”

 

  Me

May be an image of text that says 'JCFD1 OFFICE Hours MONDAY 8-12 1PM-5PM TUESDAY 8AM-12PM 1PM-5PM WEDNESDAY 8AM-12PM 1PM-5PM 김방 THURSDAY 8AM-12PM 1PM-5PM FRIDAY 8AM-12PM 1PM-5PM SATURDAY CLOSED F1D ROGESEEL ROGUERIVER F 1950 SUNDAY CLOSED Location 5474 N River Road, Gold Hill OR Call Us (541) 582-4411'

 

These are the days you can visit Crater Lake with no entrance fee.

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Rogue River Growers Market Inc 🌿 Join Us at the Rogue River Growers Market on Sundays! 🌿

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We will be back at 308 E Main St Sunday, 1/11 from 10 AM to 2 PM. This will be our first market of 2026 — and we’d love to see you there! 💚

Come enjoy:
✨ Fresh local goods
✨ Handmade crafts
✨ Delicious treats & prepared foods
✨ Your favorite vendors + new faces
✨ A welcoming community atmosphere

Bring a friend and support local this weekend! See you at the market! 🍂🛒
 
 

Umpqua Valley Audubon Society, Roseburg Library to host great horned owl presentation

 
ROSEBURG – The Umpqua Valley Audubon Society and Roseburg Public Library invite the public to a presentation on great horned owls by Colorado researcher Scott Rashid at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28.
Rashid will visit virtually on Zoom, and attendees are invited to participate in person at the library, 1409 N.E. Diamond Lake Blvd., or on the library’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/roseburglibrary. A Facebook account is not required.
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The great horned owl, one of the largest and most powerful owls in North America, is found in virtually every habitat on the continent. It can live in cities, mountains and even the plains, and it feeds on nearly anything, from insects to full-grown turkeys.
As with other owls, great horned owls do not construct their own nests but rather use the abandoned nests of other birds, including eagles, hawks, crows and ravens.
Rashid will share images of great horned owl nesting sites in different parts of the country; videos of the owls’ courtship, egg laying, nesting, growth of their young, and the food items they bring to their nestlings. He also will show videos of owlets leaving their home for the first time and what they look like as they develop into adult owls.
 
Rashid is an artist, researcher, bird rehabilitator, author and nonprofit director who has been painting, illustrating and writing about birds for more than 30 years. In 2011, he created the Colorado Avian Research and Rehabilitation Institute (CARRI) in Estes Park, Colo., focused on rehabilitating injured birds found in and around Estes Park and researching birds in and around Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park and the front range of Colorado.
In 2025, Rashid earned the Champion of Owls Award and was inducted into the World Owl Hall of Fame by the International Owl Center in Houston, Minn.
The program is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Roseburg Public Library staff at 541-492-7050 or library@roseburgor.gov.
To learn more about the Umpqua Valley Audubon Society, visit their website at www.umpquaaudubon.org
 
 
 
 
 

Ashland Fire & Rescue is hiring Firefighter Paramedics!

If you’re ready to make a difference in your community and have a passion for saving lives, we want to hear from you!  Apply before the January 30th deadline at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/ashlandor
 
 

City of Grants Pass, Local Government Applications are being accepted for a position on the Committee on Public Art (CoPA) due to a term expiration. This is a three-year position.

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CoPA works to engage the community and enrich public spaces by placing original artwork, creating a unique sense of place, enjoyment, and pride for all.
This committee also provides the Grants Pass City Council with information about public art, creates opportunities for the placement of art in public locations, and promotes collaboration between city departments, artists, architects, developers, and property owners.
Applications are available at the City Administration Office, 101 N.W. A St., or by following the link below to apply online. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026. The Committee will review applications on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. Council will make the appointment at the City Council meeting on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/…/City-Committee… 
 
 

The City Of Talent Temporarily Shutting Off Its Flock Cameras.

There are law enforcement agencies nationwide that use automatic license plate readers from Flock, a safety technology company. Snapshots from these smart cameras can be used as a public safety tool to help track cars involved in crimes or in the event of an Amber Alert.

But the technology is controversial. Many are raising privacy concerns about how the camera data is stored and shared. Eugene and Springfield have recently cancelled Flock Camera after serious consideration.

U.S Senator Ron Wyden (D- OR) said Flock deceived state and local law enforcement customers about its sharing of their data with the Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies to crack down on immigration.

The city of Talent was granted funding to use the technology more than a year ago. Talent Mayor Darby Ayers-Flood said, “While this technology has already been helpful in supporting investigations in Talent, it has also become controversial nationwide due to concerns about data retention, alleged misuse of information sharing, and the potential for surveillance to extend beyond its original intent.”

Talent Police Chief Jennifer Snook decided to turn off the Flock surveillance cameras until these concerns can be addressed and until more information is gathered about how the technology can be used to support public safety.

The city will not use Flock technology until after the 2026 Oregon legislative session concludes. Ayers-Flood said Talent supports law enforcement and wants to ensure police are equipped with the tools they need. She said this will be an ongoing, open discussion with Talent residents about how the city can support their rights to privacy.

 

 

Wrong Way Driver Mitigation Construction Project in Southern Oregon

Work is being done at several I-5 ramps in Jackson County at night.

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) project hopes to mitigate wrong-way driver incidents along the interstate. 

This project hopes to reduce the number of wrong way drivers at I-5 interchanges by evaluating each interchange connection and apply relatively low-cost treatments. These include increased signing and striping. At certain high-risk interchanges, other measures will be considered such as increased illumination, automated warning systems and overhead signing.​

Project Area Map

The agency said Southwest Oregon sees a higher percentage of wrong-way driver crashes compared to other areas of the state. Just two weeks ago NBC5 reported a 34-year-old Grants Pass woman died driving the wrong way on the interstate. ODOT said these incidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities and many involve impaired drivers.

The project began earlier in June, spanning from the California border to Northern Douglas County. It adds features like permanent signs, reflective pavement markings, flashing beacons at interchanges and more. ODOT’s Julie Denney said, “The work on this project is happening at night so you might see some exit closures, you might see some workers on the side of the road and if that happens, please give them space, slow down and watch your speed.”

ODOT said given the scope of the project, the work could continue till next fall. More information can be found here: https://www.oregon.gov/odot/projects/pages/project-details.aspx?project=21699

 

Sharing for our friends at Salvation Army

Help Fill Our Food Pantry – Your Donations Make a Difference! Hunger is a reality for many in our community, but together, we can make a change! Our food pantry is in need of non-perishable food items to help families struggling to put meals on the table. Most Needed Items: Canned vegetables & fruits Rice & pasta Peanut butter & jelly Cereal & oatmeal Soup & canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans) Drop-off Location: 922 N. Central Avenue Medford, OR 97501 Hours: 9am-3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Every can, box, and bag of food makes a difference in someone’s life. Let’s come together to fight hunger—because no one should go to bed hungry. .    

 

Ashland Rolls Out Free Pre-Approved Plans to Spur Residents into Building Affordable Backyard Homes

Seeking to promote affordability and support residents’ 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. The meeting is geared towards helping you understand zoning requirements, building codes, and any other considerations for ADU projects.  Find free City of Ashland ADU plans here

 

Rogue Valley Humane Society

Our Community Food Bank exists to help folks who need an extra helping hand during a difficult month to feed their pets. Our program has a limited budget and so we rely on generous members of our community to donate some of these goods to continue to help assist our community.   In 2023 we fed an average of 700 pets a month! This equates to approximately 70 – 40lb bags of food each month!  Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.  

 

CSO Case 24-4928 PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives and Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel continue to search for a woman missing out of Prospect, Ore. since September 2024.

Deenah Padgett, 69, was reported missing on Sunday, September 8, 2024. She was last seen camping in the Prospect area on September 4, 2024. She is described as a white woman with brownish-red, partially gray hair, standing 4’8” tall and weighing 90-100 lbs. JCSO detectives and SAR personnel have searched the area extensively and are looking for the public’s help. If you see Deenah or know her whereabouts, immediately call ECSO Dispatch at (541) 776-7206 and reference case 24-4928. If you have any information that might help the investigation, call Detective Friend at (541) 864-8774.

ONE YEAR LATER: Sheriff's Detectives, Search & Rescue Still Searching for Missing Prospect Woman Deenah Padgett; Looking for Public Help JCSO Case 24-4928 PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) detectives The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is asking  for help identifying the owner a motorhome.  It could be associated with a missing person from the Prospect area. JCSO says 68-year-old Deenah Padgett has been missing since August 30 from Prospect, described as a white woman, 4’ 8” 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 Padgett’s whereabouts to call Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatch non-emergency phone number at 541-776-7206.

 

 

David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active

The Ashland Police Department’s 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.Community still looking for answers in violent 2011 murder of David Grubbs on Ashland, Oregon bike path This case remains important to David’s family, the community, and the Ashland Police Department. As detectives continue to pursue these new leads, anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to the Ashland Police Department at 541-488-2211. The reward for information leading to an arrest on this case remains at over $21,000.

 

Taking Another Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey

Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends.

But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle

r/WithoutATrace - DISAPPEARANCE OF FAUNA FREY! LAST SEEN 7/6/2020 IN GRANTS PASS OREGON! MORE DETAILS IN COMMENTS! HELP!

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We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate.

Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.” https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162

We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a huge reward for information that brings Fauna home.

Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing. 

Tipline- 541-359-5638

Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com

FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132

Fauna Frey Vanished Without A Trace In  Josephine County

Family, friends continue desperate search for missing Oregon woman Fauna Frey who disappeared in June It’s been more than 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 brother’s 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 Fauna’s disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved. Fauna’s disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, including Nowhere to be FoundHere One Minute, Gone the Next, and 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 Sheriff’s Office
  • Tip line: (541) 359-5638
  • EmailFindFaunaFrey@gmail.com

Currrently there is a $50,000 CASH REWARD for information leading to the location of Fauna Frey. LARGE CASH REWARDS are being offered for any other relevant information, such as any objects that could be identified as Fauna’s, i.e. her wallet, keys, or Indian/Buffalo .999 silver bullion coins. Find Fauna Frey Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132  

 

You can find food in your community at this link

Our network of food banks and pantries provides free food and groceries across Oregon. No proof of income or documentation required.

https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/

If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.

 

Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?

Here are resources that can help:

211Info:  Dial 2-1-1 or visit the211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon.

Oregon Food Bank:  Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Map to find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you. 

Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit theADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area.

 

Supreme Court tariffs decision could shape Oregon’s economic outlook after steady 2025

If the Supreme Court strikes down some tariffs without backup revenue source, it could mean higher costs for Oregonians after nearly avoiding a downturn last year.

Oregon’s economy held up better than many expected in 2025, even as fears of a recession dominated much of the year, according to state Chief Economist Carl Riccadonna. 

He said job growth has started to return, especially in the service sector, and state tax revenues have stayed steady — a sign that people are still working and spending. Those trends, he said, suggests Oregon “muddled through” a challenging year, avoiding a major downturn, and could see improvement in 2026.

President Donald Trump’s tariffs were a major source of uncertainty last year, but Riccadonna said their impact on everyday Oregonians was more muted than predicted. While manufacturing has taken a hit as companies adjust to higher costs and shifting supply chains, many consumer prices did not rise as sharply as feared. In some cases, he said, foreign companies lowered their own prices to stay competitive, easing the burden on shoppers.

Looking ahead, Riccadonna said tariffs could still affect household finances in less obvious ways. If the Supreme Court strikes down some tariffs without a replacement source of revenue, the federal government may need to borrow more to pay for the tax cuts, which could push interest rates higher. That would mean higher costs for mortgages, credit cards and auto loans.

In the following excerpt, Riccadonna breaks down the Supreme Court’s decision on tariffs affect Oregonians and what it might mean for the larger economy. The transcript has been edited for clarity. This interview was filmed on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026. https://www.kgw.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/straight-talk/supreme-court-tariffs-decision-could-shape-oregons-economic-outlook-after-steady-2025/283-7bae1989-51a8-48ac-819b-181a9e8f4452

magnitude 6.0 earthquake occurred off the Oregon coast on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The earthquake was centered about 183 miles west of Bandon, and no tsunami warning was issued

May be an image of map and text that says 'X 2.0 Vancouve 2.4 .4 WA 2.1 2.0 6.0 OR 2.5 2.0 Maps Legal San Francisco 2.63.0 2.6 3.0 3.5 Oregon Jan 15, 2026 19:25 0 mi 4.4mi 4.4 4.4mi6.0 mi 6.0 43°41'50.3"N 128°01'47.3"W USGS'
  • Magnitude: 6.0
  • Location: Approximately 183 miles west of Bandon, Oregon
  • Time: Around 7:25 p.m. Pacific Time on Thursday, January 15, 2026
  • Depth: About 4.4 to 6.2 miles (7.1 to 10 kilometers)
  • Impact: No damage or injuries were reported on shore. Shaking was minimal in coastal communities, with only a limited number of people reporting they felt the quake.
  • Tsunami Threat: The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed there was no tsunami threat because the earthquake was a strike-slip fault (plates moving side-by-side) within the Blanco Fracture Zone, which does not typically displace enough water to cause a tsunami. 

Earthquakes of this magnitude are not uncommon in this seismically active offshore region (the Blanco Fracture Zone), and generally do not pose a danger to people on the coastline. 

You can see the latest earthquake information on the USGS website or the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network website. Residents who felt the quake are encouraged to report their experience on the USGS felt report page to aid earthquake monitoring efforts. 

Helicopter Crash Near Logsden

On January 15, 2026, at approximately 08:37am, The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received reports of an unknown crash near the 2800 block of Moonshine Park Rd in Logsden, OR.

While enroute, Deputies learned the incident involved a helicopter, which crashed into a cow pasture. The crash did not physically harm nearby structures, individuals, or livestock. There is no ongoing threat to the community.

Responders contacted the pilot onsite, who was the sole occupant of the commercially operated Bell JetRanger helicopter. The pilot suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported for further evaluation and treatment.

The cause of the crash is still unknown and under investigation. The investigation has been turned over to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Protestors Show Up After ICE Arrest Woman Just Standing Across From Eugene Federal Building

Protestors showed up in support of a woman who was arrested by ICE agents across the street from the old federal building In downtown Eugene.

 

Oregon Housing Needs Analysis Production Targets and Adopted Methodology Report Published

The Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) is part of Oregon’s statewide land use planning system that is intended to facilitate housing production, affordability and choice to meet housing needs for Oregonians statewide, outlined by House Bill 2001.

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services published the Office of Economic Analysis’ 2026 Production Targets and Adopted Methodology. The report presents both the final methodology and the initial statewide and regional results. The OHNA report will be updated and released annually by Dec. 31. For more information on OHNA, visit the Office of Economic Analysis webpage.

Oregon Governor Kotek taps Republican rival to boost business relations

Oregon Public Broadcasting first published this article. —– In December, Gov. Tina Kotek announced that Oregon was open for business. For help, the Democratic governor is turning to a Republican who might be best known for shutting down the Legislature.

Kotek announced Wednesday that she is hiring former state Sen. Tim Knopp as her new chief prosperity officer.

The former longtime lawmaker from Bend will be tasked with meeting Kotek’s goal of finding ways to ease burdens on businesses and stem a recent tide of job losses.

“To be successful, this role demands a unique set of skills — an entrepreneurial spirit, a systems thinker, and equal parts pragmatism and persistence,” Kotek said in a release Wednesday. “Tim is going to be a great part of my team, and I am grateful that he has agreed to step up and serve Oregonians.”

Beginning next week, Knopp will work in Kotek’s office alongside other staff, earning $191,658 a year. But it wasn’t long ago that he was a major thorn in the governor’s side.

During the 2023 legislative session, he led Senate Republicans on a six-week walkout that all but shut down legislative action and raised the prospect lawmakers would not be able to pass a budget on time.

As a result of that boycott, Knopp was barred from seeking reelection in 2024. He currently works as executive vice president of the Central Oregon Builders Association, a role he will depart to join the governor’s team.

“When the Governor calls on you to drive prosperity for Oregonians across the state, grow the economy, and support Oregon businesses, the answer is yes,” Knopp said in a statement. He did not respond to inquiries from OPB.

Kotek announced her business prosperity initiative in early December, on the eve of announcing her reelection bid.

The effort includes a 16-member “prosperity council,” tasked with recommending public policy changes that can make it easier to build and grow businesses in Oregon, and juice the state’s reputation for business nationwide. Kotek announced members of that council last week. It will meet in private.

A recent study from CNBC ranked Oregon 39th in the country in terms of overall business environment — far lower than the state’s showing in previous years. Kotek said she want’s to get the Beaver State into the top 10.

In his new role, Knopp will work alongside the prosperity council, but also look for actions the governor can take on her own to assist businesses.

Kotek’s selection has drawn widespread surprise in business circles this week, with some privately expressing skepticism at the choice. Knopp doesn’t have an extensive background in economic development.

Outward signs suggest Kotek struggled to fill the prosperity officer role. The governor initially pledged to announce a hire by New Year’s Day, but four members of the state’s business lobby told OPB inquiries to several possible candidates were not successful. A spokeswoman for Kotek declined to comment on who the governor sought for the job. (SOURCE)

Implementing Trump’s tax law to cost Oregon $114 million in SNAP investments

Lawmakers met at Oregon Capitol ahead of the 2026 legislative short session

food SNAP boxes
The Oregon Office of Resilience and Emergency Management prepares food boxes to send out to Oregonians in need. (Photo by Mia Maldonado/Oregon Capital Chronicle)

The Oregon Department of Human Services says it needs $114.6 million from the state’s general fund to fill gaps in its 2025-27 budget because of cuts and other changes to federal food assistance. 

The long-awaited funding request comes after Oregon lawmakers in 2025 set a two-year budget days before President Donald Trump signed a major tax and spending law in July that drastically changed the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, by adding work requirements, limiting benefits for noncitizens, creating more eligibility checks for people enrolled in the program and increasing the administrative cost burden for states. 

The timing left lawmakers scrambling to respond to unforeseen budget changes affecting the one in six Oregonians who rely on SNAP. 

The department’s funding request has support from Gov. Tina Kotek, who on Tuesday reflected on the results of her 60-day food emergency during the government shutdown that left thousands of Oregonians without access to their SNAP benefits. She directed $5 million to Oregon’s statewide food bank network and $1 million to the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon. The state received a $6 million match from Oregon Disaster Funders Network. 

“We acted quickly to help get emergency food to families, restore SNAP benefits as soon as the courts allowed, and support the community organizations that step up every day to feed people,” Kotek said in a statement. “That leadership saved lives — and it sets the standard for how Oregon will continue to respond.”

Despite the state’s quick response to the disruption of benefits, Oregonians are already seeing the impacts of the new federal law. 

“We have households who saw reduced benefits because of changes in utility cost calculations, legal asylees and certain refugee populations lost SNAP eligibility entirely and work requirements expanded from six counties to all 36 counties across the state — increasing verification compliance demands on both clients and the state,” said Nate Singer, the agency’s eligibility program director. 

Singer, alongside other Oregon Department of Human Services staff, gave lawmakers a breakdown of what federal SNAP changes may cost Oregon ahead of the 2026 legislative short session. 

Agency says work requirements will increase staff demand

The agency is requesting $13.8 million to address the work requirement changes under the law. 

The federal law tightens restrictions on who qualifies for exemptions from the SNAP work requirements. For example, it removed exemptions for former foster youth, unhoused individuals and veterans and adults ages 50 to 65. It also narrowed benefits for noncitizens.

The requested amount would support IT system upgrades, outreach and staff resources to manage an increased workload for staff who process applications and determine household benefit levels. 

Oregon now has to split SNAP benefit costs with feds

The agency is requesting $39 million for the 2025-27 budget cycle to invest in improving the state’s SNAP payment error rate. 

SNAP benefits previously were 100% federally funded, but the new law requires any state with a SNAP payment error rate above 6% to pay between 5% and 15% of benefit costs beginning October 2027. Oregon’s error rate in 2024 was 14%, and it’s mostly because of people not reporting their incomes on time and receiving either too much or too little in benefits, Singer said.

The agency has consulted with states with low error rates and experts to make a plan to lower its own and minimize its financial liability, Oregon Department of Human Services Deputy Director Dana Hittle told lawmakers. 

“The resulting plan focuses on the operational basics, such as call center performance management of teams, improving training for staff and communications to clients, as well as integration of artificial intelligence and other technology solutions to streamline and improve processes,” Hittle said. 

It would need an estimated $450 million in the 2027-29 budget if the state’s error rate doesn’t improve. 

Administrative cost sharing

The agency is requesting $54 million to cover the increase in SNAP administrative costs the state must pay from 50% to 75% beginning October 2026. This amount is meant to cover the change in the 2025-27 budget cycle. 

The agency is requesting $142 million for the 2027-29 budget cycle. 

“This means a significant increase in general fund obligations just to maintain core operations for us,” Singer said. “These are your eligibility, workers that process and do hearings, call centers, customer supports, our vendor contracts, system maintenance — all these areas shift the cost from the federal government to the states significantly 

Investing in SNAP card security

To address increasing reports in electronic benefit transfer SNAP cards, the state will seek $7.1 million from the general fund to support transitioning SNAP cards to chip-enabled cards to strengthen security against skimming and fraud. 

There’s been more than 10,600 instances of validated theft of benefits worth $4.1 million since 2023, according to the agency.

“At its core, this budget request is about helping Oregonians meet their basic needs, food on the table and access to health care and services,” Hittle said. (SOURCE)

Klamath County teachers ratified what leaders are calling their best contract in decades, winning some measures that teachers in the district have been fighting to achieve for more than 20 years.

As county teachers celebrated their victory Monday evening at Henley Elementary School, they said that the win came in the eleventh hour — and that the movement from their district puts more heat on Klamath Falls City Schools going forward.

“We won our strongest contract with the best raises in 20 years by staying united until the end and refusing to give up on the belief that we could secure a contract that would address turnover in our District,” said PJ Gonyaw, a fifth grade teacher at Klamath County Public Schools and co-president of the Klamath County Education Association. “We were stuck on finances up until 20 minutes before the end of our final session, when we finally got the good news that our District had stepped up and decided they do value us and were going to figure it out.”

“This victory shows that educators should stick to their convictions — and that districts that respect us will pay us like they do,” said Jen Todd, a middle school ELA teacher in Klamath County Public Schools and co-president of the Klamath County Education Association. “Budgets reveal priorities. We hope that Klamath Falls City Schools follows the example that Klamath County Schools just set and finally makes movement to offer their educators more than poverty wages. If they don’t, they’ll quickly lose their educators to other Districts that do value them.”

One of the largest non-economic victories was securing comp time for elementary teachers, who sometimes have to take on an entire second class when substitutes aren’t available — something for which they have fought for more than 10 years.

The Oregon Education Association noted, “Klamath Falls City Schools, a separate district but one that watches moves by the County school district closely, pays their lowest paid educators poverty wages under $16 an hour. Classified educators there earning poverty pay demanded mediation shortly before the holidays, after Klamath Falls City Schools cancelled Christmas for their employees by refusing to settle a contract with living wages.”

Klamath County educators and Klamath Falls City Schools educators have bargained in close coordination throughout their negotiations, including using the same expert bargainer, Del Mallory.

“This is an instance of two districts in the same community that both insisted for nearly a year that they cannot budge on their financials — yet Klamath County did anyway, and revealed once again that ‘will’ and ‘won’t’ are simply a matter of values and political will,” said Del Mallory with the Oregon Education Association, who has helped lead financial analysis for both districts.

“The financial reality is that Klamath Falls City Schools gave tens of thousands of dollars to their highest paid non-classroom administrators just weeks ago. Their refusal to pay living wages to their lowest paid employees is a values issue, not a budget issue. They could settle this in their first day of mediation if they made the organizational choice to value their lowest paid employees.”

 

Oregon Health Authority seeks new members for Oversight and Accountability Council

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

  • An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy
  • A representative of a coordinated care organization

To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 pm, January 30, 2026.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by Feb 13, 2026.

For questions or more information, email HRN@OHA.oregon.gov” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;”>BHRN@OHA.oregon.gov or contact Karli Moon at li.moon@oha.oregon.gov” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;”>Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

Oregon Attorney General Files Lawsuit Over Insulin Price Gouging

In a bold move to combat the exorbitant costs of insulin, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield has launched a lawsuit seeking a hefty $900 million in damages. The defendants, a trifecta of the largest insulin manufacturers—Novo Nordisk, Sanofi, and Eli Lilly—and a trio of influential pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs)—Express Scripts, CVS Caremark, and Optum, stand accused of conspiring to inflate the prices of this life-saving medication. According to a statement from the Oregon Department of Justice (ODOJ), this lawsuit is a significant step toward alleviating the financial burden imposed on Oregon patients and families.

Filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court, the lawsuit unfolds a narrative of alleged collusion where insulin manufacturers and PBMs have caused prices to surge, in order to ensure PBMs’ formularies included their products. “This is about more than insulin prices – it’s about the crushing cost pressures families are facing and the very real harm that comes when corporations exploit people who have no choice but to pay,” Attorney General Rayfield mentioned on ODOJ. Allegations suggest that to secure favorable formulary positions, drug makers raised list prices and compensated PBMs with significant rebates and fees, which turned inflated prices into mutual benefits.

Furthermore, the complaint alleges that the defendants acted intentionally to exclude more affordable insulin alternatives from formulary lists. By doing so, they essentially trapped consumers in an ecosystem of high-cost medications, pushing aside any opportunity for patients to seek out cost-effective options. This duplicitous conduct has led to insured and low-income Oregonians struggling, having to resort to risky measures like rationing insulin, using expired products, or even skipping meals for blood sugar management.

The lawsuit also sheds light on the ODOJ’s ongoing efforts to unravel and rectify the web of complexities behind prescription drug costs. As the pioneers of a healthcare renaissance struggle to make medications affordable, Attorney General Rayfield has given a face to a crusade to bring justice and generate wide-reaching impacts on how prescription drugs are priced and sold. “We are working to bring the cost of prescription drugs down for working families, using the tools we have to hold these powerful companies accountable. Oregonians can expect more action in the near future,” Rayfield declared on the ODOJ Website, signifying a promise of more actions soon to unfold in this ongoing regulatory saga.

This landmark lawsuit is grounded on alleged breaches of Oregon’s Unlawful Trade Practices Act. It aims not just to penalize those behind the inflation of drug prices but also seeks restitution for affected consumers, the forfeiture of illicit profits, and extensive damages. Oregonians burdened by the soaring cost of insulin could see a pivotal turn if the court sides with the state and demands an end to the alleged scheme that has for too long preyed on their pockets and well-being. (SOURCE)

OPRD seeks public input on proposed rules for UAS use in Oregon State Parks

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public feedback on proposed rules governing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) takeoff and landing in Oregon’s state parks and along the ocean shore.

The proposed rules establish where and how UAS may take off and land on state park property, to balance recreational opportunities with protection of natural, cultural, scenic and recreational resources.

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted beginning January 1, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. and can be submitted:

A public hearing will be held to allow members of the public to provide testimony.

  • Virtual hearing
    January 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X3ChSlJkTE-Y3FRh3WIy-Q

The draft rules focus on regulating takeoff and landing locations, which are within the department’s authority, while recognizing that UAS flight is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Under the proposal, UAS use would generally be limited to designated areas for drone operations, with additional requirements for commercial or research purposes.

The proposed rules were developed in response to Senate Bill 109 (2021), which directed OPRD to create a regulatory framework that provides recreational UAS access while protecting sensitive park resources and minimizing conflicts with other visitors.

OPRD convened a Rule Advisory Committee made up of recreation user groups, conservation organizations, natural resource specialists, commercial operators and other stakeholders. The committee reviewed draft rules and provided recommendations that helped shape the proposal now open for public comment.

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all feedback, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration later in 2026.

If adopted, the rules would be implemented in phases, allowing the department to adapt management strategies over time, based on resource conditions, visitor use and operational experience.

For over 30 years the Yachats Lions Club has held an annual Crab Feed event in Yachats, Oregon. The annual trek to Yachats to eat Dungeness crab is a tradition for families and groups from across Oregon, Washington and beyond.

Our annual Yachats Lions Club Crab Feed is DINE-IN on Saturday, January 31, 2026! After selling out in 2025, the 2026 Crab Feed will now offer 4 seatings, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm at the Yachats Lions Hall and 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm at the Yachats Commons.

Meals purchased will consist of “All you can eat Dungeness crab“, fresh locally baked bread, coleslaw, baked beans, and soda for $50.

Crab Feed 2026 Tickets – All You Can Eat

Buy TIckets (button)

The $50 per person meal tickets are available for sale online at https://yachatslionsclub.org/ You can select the seating and order as many meals as you like. For more information please send an email to YachatsLionsCrabFeed@gmail.com.

Lion David O’Kelley, coordinator of the popular Crab Feed, says “We are very pleased to be offering the fund-raiser as we have done for so many years.” We get great support from the community and local businesses in Yachats, Waldport and Newport. South Beach Fish Market cooks and cleans the best tasting  local crab you have ever eaten. 

With our motto of “WE SERVE” among the many services we provide eyeglasses and exams, hearing aids and exams, eye screening in Lincoln County schools, pancake breakfasts, crab feed, lunch bunch, speaker series, peace poster and flag day events in our schools, and  ommunity use of our clubhouse. Through community donations to the Yachats Lions Thrift Store our sales allow us to donate to local, student scholarships, food pantries, school programs, projects, and upkeep of the clubhouse.

In addition, donations are made to Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing as well as Lions Club International Foundation.  Lions Club International is the world’s largest service club organization with a network of 1.4 million men and women in more than 200 countries and geographical locations. We serve where we live, as well as globally, and we have fun doing it. 

The proceeds for this fund-raising event are for Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation.

 

The future of the recently approved gas tax increase in Oregon remains uncertain as the Secretary of State examines nearly 200,000 signatures submitted by the organization No Tax Oregon.

Should a sufficient number of signatures be validated, voters will have the opportunity next November to determine whether to repeal the gas tax and other transportation-related fee hikes enacted by the legislature. Proponents of the taxes argue that the revenue is essential for road maintenance and to avert job reductions at the Oregon Department of Transportation. State officials are required to finalize the signature verification process by January 29.

Oregon has enhanced its online voter registration system in anticipation of a crucial election season, enabling eligible voters without a state-issued ID to register digitally for the first time.

Voters can access the system via sos.oregon.gov by navigating to the voting section of the website.

Applicants lacking an Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles number can now indicate this directly on the form and proceed with the online registration process. These users are required to provide their name, residential address, date of birth, the last four digits of their Social Security number, and an uploaded image of their signature.

This modification arises from House Bill 4133, which was enacted by lawmakers in 2022. Previously, online registration was restricted to voters whose identity and signature had already been authenticated through the DMV. Individuals without qualifying identification were obligated to fill out a paper registration form, which was subsequently processed by county elections offices.

State election officials indicate that this update aims to modernize the registration system and eliminate obstacles for eligible voters, including those who no longer drive, have never possessed an Oregon driver license, or encounter difficulties registering by mail.

The Oregon DMV has now implemented a local preference system for rural customers who are scheduling behind-the-wheel drive tests for Class C driver licenses, which is the standard license for passenger vehicles.

Becoming effective on January 1st, Senate Bill 9 mandates that DMV field offices located in 20 rural counties prioritize applicants who either reside within the same county, are within 50 miles of a DMV field office, or live in one of the two counties that do not have a DMV office.

This legislation benefits customers residing in Baker, Clatsop, Crook, Curry, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Jefferson, Klamath, Lake, Malheur, Morrow, Sherman, Tillamook, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco, and Wheeler counties. It is important to note that the DMV does not conduct drive tests in Gilliam, Morrow, Sherman, or Wheeler counties.

Customers from these counties have the option to schedule a local-preference drive test at any rural DMV office that provides this service.

Raise Funds to Plant Trees in Oregon

Registration is open for the Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K

Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests.  You must register by April 1st in order to get your shirts and medal before the event.

Participants can walk, run, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 18 and 26 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day).   Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. Last year, we had to close registration early due to higher than anticipated participation, so register as soon as possible.  If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15, or earlier if more participants sign up than we have available swag.

For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks.  Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration.  This year’s tree plantings will be placed in the Santiam Canyon.

Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.

As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its sixth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include fifteen other states. Together, all sixteen states will help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.

“We are thrilled to honor Bob Ross and continue our efforts to plant at least One Million Trees in Oregon.” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.  “To date, we have funded the planting of 850,000 trees.”

“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”

Participants can register at www.orparksforever.org.

For more information, contact Seth Miller at 503/966-1053 or seth@orparksforever.org

The Oregon Department of Revenue will open the application period in January 2026 for the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit.

Paying overtime to agricultural workers became a requirement of employers in Oregon as of January 1, 2023. In 2025, agricultural workers are paid overtime after they work 48 hours in one work week. If an employer paid overtime, they may qualify for a refundable personal or corporate income tax credit, regardless of the size of the business.

The tax credit for employers is a percentage of overtime premium pay paid as wages.

All applications must be submitted no later than February 2, 2026.

The 2025 filing period marks the third year since eligible employers have been able to apply for the tax credit.

Applications can only be made through the department’s Revenue Online website. Qualifying agricultural employers who have not applied for the tax credit previously need a Revenue Online account to apply during the application period. No paper applications will be accepted. We have published a new video to help customers with their Revenue Online applications.

DOR encourages employers to prepare in advance to ensure an easier and faster filing experience. DOR’s webpage provides guidance for how to apply, documentation you may need, program information, and frequently asked questions to help employers apply for the tax credit.

For general questions about the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit, email: Ag.Overtime@dor.oregon.gov.

Tax practitioners with other tax or customer account questions are encouraged to contact a dedicated practitioner specialist by email at prac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov, or by phone at 503-947-3541.

NW Natural Warms Up Winter with “Fireside Friends” Pet Photo Contest

Customers are invited to share photos of their pets for a chance to win a prize; NW Natural is also supporting The Pongo Fund

NW Natural is inviting customers to warm up this winter and celebrate their pets with the launch of the Fireside Friends Sweepstakes. The contest offers the chance to win a prize while also supporting a local charity.

Running now through February 1, 2026, the sweepstakes welcomes customers to share photos of their furry friends enjoying the warmth and comfort of a natural gas fireplace for the chance to win a $200 Chewy gift card.

NW Natural has also pledged a $1,000 donation to The Pongo Fund Pet Food Bank, which helps support people and their pets throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington.

How to Enter:

NW Natural customers can enter the sweepstakes via social media in two simple steps:

  1. Follow @nwnaturalgas on Instagram or Facebook. (Media can find some of the wonderful pet photos that have already been posted by customers on both platforms!)
  2. Post a photo of their pet(s) cozying up by their natural gas fireplace and tag @nwnaturalgas or use the hashtag #nwnaturalgas.

The contest is open now and entries will be accepted until February 1, 2026. For full terms and conditions visit nwnatural.com/FiresideFriends

About NW Natural

NW Natural is a local distribution company that currently provides service to approximately 2 million people in more than 140 communities through approximately 806,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington with one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation. NW Natural owns and operates 21.6 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity in Oregon. It is the largest natural gas utility in Oregon and one of the state’s oldest companies.

 

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ 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 Oregon’s 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 veterans’ 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 visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 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, it’s vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:

  Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio

  • Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
  • Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. 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 sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
  • WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if 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

  • Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
  • Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” 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 the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
  • Don’t wait for a notification—if 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 own 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 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.

  • Update this emergency address when you travel or relocate—especially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
  • Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you are—include your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.

Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage

  • Register for OR-Alert and your county’s local alert system.
  • Follow your local emergency management officials’ and bookmark resources like: wildfire.oregon.gov.

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

  • Know the three levels of evacuation:
    • Level 1 – Be Ready
    • Level 2 – Be Set
    • Level 3 – GO NOW
  • If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasing—take action even if you haven’t received an alert.

 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, community bulletin boards or fire stations 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. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. *** Update: 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.com for road conditions
  • Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.

 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.

 Final Tip:

In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 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 OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.  

Oregon’s Missing Persons

Many times you’ll 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 don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.

In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either. Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced

    SafeOregon 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 website https://www.safeoregon.com

Call us at 5 41-363-7503  Or email us at Info@RogueValleyMagazine.com  

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