Rogue Valley News, Wednesday 1/28 -Ashland DMV Closes Temporarily Due To Staffing Issues, Jury Selection In Criminal Trial Over Alleged Drug Diversion Case Likely To Start By June & 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

Wednesday – January 28, 2026

Rogue Valley Weather

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

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

Jury Selection In Criminal Trial Over Alleged Drug Diversion Case Likely To Start By June

Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center nurse Dani Marie Schofield is scheduled for a  September trial date, with jury selection set to begin by June.

Schofield, 37, appeared Monday before Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Jeremy Markiewicz for her first court check-in since the new calendar year. The former RN faces 44 counts of second-degree assault in connection with allegations she swapped prescription fentanyl for non-sterile tap water leading to life-threatening infections in dozens of patients, some of whom died at the Medford hospital. 

Attorneys for Schofield, who pleaded not guilty in June 2024 to all charges, discussed ongoing discovery in the case and jury selection, which could include a pool of as many as 200 potential jurors and alternate jurors and begin by early June.

Markiewicz noted at  Monday’s proceedings that a note was included in the case file inquiring about video streaming for the upcoming jury trial, but he said he was unsure who requested the information. In high-profile cases, streaming can sometimes be permitted to provide room when large numbers of the public are expected to attend a trial. 

Schofield, who appeared in court Monday with several members of her legal team and some family members, has been free on bail since posting $400,000 toward a $4 million bail just one week following her June 2024 arrest.

Josephine County Commisioner Chis Barnett Resigns Just Days Ahead of His Recall Going Into Affect

Chris Barnett released a Facebook video on Monday stating that his time as county commissioner has come to an end.  Chris Barnett released an official statement announcing his resignation.

“ My decision to conclude my service was made after a thoughtful reflection and with respect for this office. I leave with gratitude and hope that we continue to choose accountability, civility, and solutions over division,” Barnett stated.

“ As I conclude my service as county commissioner, I want to thank the people of this county for the opportunity to serve,” Chris Barnett said. “Public service is challenging work, and I accepted this role with a commitment to integrity, fiscal responsibility, public safety, and respect for the rule of law,” Barnett said.

Preliminary results in the Josephine County recall election indicated that Barnett would have been recalled upon the certification of election results. Barnett’s resignation comes before the certification, effective 8 a.m. Monday. Preliminary election results in the January 6 Recall Election, which will decide whether or not to recall Commissioner Chris Barnett:

CURRENT UNOFFICIAL ELECTION RESULTS 

YES: 61.76% (13,721 VOTES) 

NO: 38.24% (8,497 VOTES) 

UPDATE 01/27/26: Wanted Man Billy Gregory Arrested in Washington State 
Jackson Co. Sheriff’s Office 

JCSO Case 25-6724

WASHOUGAL, Wash. – Washougal Police arrested Billy Dean Gregory, 55, on January 16, and booked him into the Clark County Jail in Washington. Gregory was arrested for third-degree theft, and making a false statement to a public servant. He is also being held on outstanding warrants for 13 additional charges, including five counts of theft, forgery, theft of a motor vehicle, and attempting to elude, among others. Local charges have been referred to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office. There is no further update at this time.

Original Release:

Southern Oregon Law Enforcement Searching for Wanted Man Following Crime Spree – JCSO Case 25-6724

SOUTHERN OREGON — Law enforcement agencies throughout Southern Oregon are searching for a man wanted in connection with multiple stolen vehicles and a high-speed pursuit that occurred today.

The suspect, Billy Dean Gregory, 55, of O’Brien, Ore., is wanted on outstanding warrants and faces multiple charges, including unlawful use of a motor vehicle, theft, reckless driving, and attempting to elude police. Gregory is described as a white male, approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 198 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen around 1:00 p.m. switching stolen vehicles in the Colver Road area of Talent. At this time, it is unknown what vehicle he may be driving.

The initial incident began just before 10:30 a.m. when Josephine County reported a stolen vehicle eluding law enforcement on Interstate 5. The pursuit continued into Jackson County, where Central Point Police Department officers successfully deployed spike strips on the suspect vehicle along I-5. Despite the damage, the suspect continued to elude officers at a high rate of speed into Ashland. The pursuit was later terminated due to public safety concerns.

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies subsequently located the abandoned vehicle on Lori Lane in Ashland and deployed K9 and drone teams to search the area. Officers were unable to locate the suspect.

Later, ECSO 911 Dispatch received a report of a vehicle stolen from Big Al’s restaurant in Ashland. That vehicle was later located on North Valley View Road outside of Ashland, where a third stolen vehicle was also reported. While attempting to locate the third stolen vehicle, ECSO received a call reporting the suspect stealing alcohol from the Talent Liquor store. Law enforcement ultimately located the third stolen vehicle in the 5800 block of Colver Road in Talent.

The suspect remains at large. There is no further information available for release at this time. Anyone who sees Billy Dean Gregory or has information regarding his whereabouts is urged to call 911 immediately.

Fatal Crash – Interstate 5 – Jackson County
Jackson County, Ore. (Jan. 26, 2026)- On Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 3:59 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 46, in Jackson County.

Candle Vigil to Remember and Honor Alex Pretti in Ashland Oregon Singing America the Beautiful.

FACEBOOK REEL     facebook.com/reel/1433873148072526/?s=single_unit

 

Rogue Indivisible ICE Out For Good Protest in Grants Pass

Hundreds gathered in Grants Pass for an Ice Out for Good protest on Sunday.

Rogue Indivisible of Josephine County was already planning on putting together an ICE protest, but with the recent news coming out of Minneapolis, the group says more people turned out because people are frustrated with the ongoing ICE enforcement.

Organizers say that protests in Grants Pass are important to them because Josephine County has no democratic representation in Congress.   Rogue Indivisible Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578234500144

 

𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲

At 12:17 a.m. on January 25, Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon ECSO 911 received a 911 call reporting a structure fire in the 1400 block of Ashbrook Circle.

Engine 12 arrived first and found gray smoke coming from the backyard. Crews quickly attacked the fire from the exterior side, achieving knockdown in under three minutes.

 

Due to the fast response, there was no interior damage, and the occupants were able to remain in their home.There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians, and the cause remains under investigation.

 

As a reminder, please store wood piles away from structures and ensure ashes are fully extinguished and disposed of in a non-combustible container. Thank you to our crews for the quick response and to the community for helping keep Medford safe.

 

Passenger Truck Strikes, Kills Pedestrian in I-5 Exit 33 Onramp Crosswalk

JCSO Case 26-0344 CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – A 65-year-old Central Point man driving a passenger truck struck and killed a 48-year-old man in the crosswalk at the Interstate 5 Exit 33 northbound onramp Wednesday evening in Central Point. The Jackson County Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team is investigating the incident.

Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon ECSO 911 Dispatch received a report of a pedestrian struck at approximately 5:39 p.m. on Wednesday, January 21 at the intersection of Pine Street and the I-5 Exit 33 northbound onramp. Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Central Point Police Department (CPPD), Jackson County Fire District 3, and Mercy Flights Inc responded to the scene. The vehicle involved was a 2022 GMC Sierra.

Mercy Flights transported the victim to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased approximately one hour after the crash. The victim was from the Las Vegas area. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.

JCSO deputies on scene requested a STAR Team callout to conduct a full investigation. The STAR Team includes investigators from JCSO, Medford Police Department, CPPD, Ashland Oregon Police Department, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office. The roadway was closed for approximately three hours while the investigation was conducted, and Jackson County Roads assisted with traffic control.

The driver is cooperating with the investigation. Based on the preliminary findings, no criminal charges are being considered at this time. Upon completion of the investigation, the results will be submitted to the DA’s Office for final review. The names of the driver and victim will not be released unless criminal charges are filed. No further information is available at this time.

 

Jackson County Library Board Votes to Terminate Director

Jackson County Library District board members voted unanimously during a Wednesday afternoon board meeting to move toward termination of district manager Kari May after fallout from incidents that occurred in December at the Talent branch library. Following an open meeting, the board convened into closed session for more than an hour before reconvening in public session, at which time board member Kevin Keating proposed four separate motions. 

The motions, all of which were unanimously approved by the five-member board, included authorizing board president Susan Kiefer to sign a written request to May to resign; authorizing district legal counsel to “enter into termination agreement negotiations” with May; and authorizing Kiefer to enter into an agreement with a form that will conduct an internal investigation into the district’s human resource department. Board members on Wednesday also voted to extend May’s administrative leave through noon on Jan. 29. May was placed on administrative leave Jan. 5 through Wednesday.  May’s leave of absence coincided with public scrutiny over numerous incidents at the Talent library in December in which 33-year-old registered sex offender Nicholas Johnson, who lives in Talent, was discovered watching videos of naked children on a library computer. The incidents occurred Dec. 11, 13 and 15. Police were contacted Dec. 11 and 15 but only made contact with Johnson Dec. 15. 

The library district initially ordered a one-week suspension of library privileges but extended the suspension to six months after public outcry over the incident. A series of recent board meetings — both open and closed — have been held with members of the public voicing concern about the Talent branch incidents and district employees raising issues about district culture and other personnel-related issues. An announcement by the Jackson County District Attorney’s office on Thursday said that no criminal charges would be filed over the incident where police responded Dec. 15, due to the video content of naked babies and toddlers not rising to meet the legal definition of child sexual abuse material, known as CSAM.

Library district officials did not immediately comment following the Wednesday board meeting but said a statement could be released Thursday.  A special board meeting, which is expected to include a closed, executive session portion, is set for 10:15 a.m. Jan. 29. Agenda information will be posted to the district website.  (SOURCE) 

 

Grants Pass Police Arrest Woman in Stabbing Incident

 On January 21, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m., the Grants Pass Police Department received a 911 call from a residence in the 1000 block of NE A Street. The 911 calltakers heard a disturbance in the background while on the phone with the resident. Patrol units responded to the scene and discovered the 39-year-old male resident had been stabbed in the upper body. Grants Pass Fire/Rescue and American Medical Response personnel responded to provide medical treatment before transporting the male to Three Rivers Medical Center. The male had significant injuries and is expected to recover.

 

Due to the seriousness of the case, the Grants Pass Major Crimes Unit assumed responsibility for the investigation around 9:00 p.m. The detectives worked throughout the night until past 5:00 am to ensure a timely and effective investigation. As a result of their work, Heidi Smith, a 42-year-old female, was taken into custody. She was lodged at the Josephine County Jail for Assault in the 2nd Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

 

Further inquiries about this case should be directed to the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office. The Grants Pass Police Department will not be releasing any further information about the victim at this time.

 

 

 

Umpqua Valley Audubon Society, Roseburg Library Hosts Great Horned Owl Presentation Wednesday 1/28

 

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.

 

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

 

2026 Josephine County Search & Rescue Academy

DETAILS: The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office Search & Rescue Division will be hosting its annual academy to train new SAR volunteers. The academy, held at 250 Tech Way, Grants Pass, OR, covers Basic Survival Skills, First Aid/CPR, Land Navigation, and more. Completion qualifies attendees as SAR volunteers.

COST: $55. Additional requirements include a background check, criminal history check, and personal equipment purchase.

The Academy runs Tuesday and Thursday evenings (6-9 PM), Saturdays (8 AM-5 PM) from February 17 to March 15.  —  For registration and details, click here.  Application deadline: February 13, 2026.

  

Calling all artists: BLM seeks Artists-in-Residence at Rogue River Ranch, Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument during Freedom 250
Bureau of Land Management Ore. & Wash.

MEDFORD, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is looking for two Artists-in-Residence: one at the historic Rogue River Ranch National Historic Site and another at the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument.

The selected artists will have the unique opportunity to capture these public lands during a milestone year as the Nation marks its 250th birthday and the BLM celebrates its 80th anniversary.  The artists will receive one- to two-week residencies during the summer to create original work while immersed in some of Oregon’s most remarkable environments.

One artist and one alternate will be selected for each residency based on the following criteria: entry materials, residency proposal, professionalism, and creative vision. Applications must be submitted by Feb. 28. As part of the 2026 program, selected artists will also be part of the Freedom 250 celebration, paying tribute to the historic sites and special lands that have contributed to the Nation’s heritage.

“Artists provide a captivating lens through which we can explore our connection to public lands,” said Joel Brumm, Assistant Monument Manager. “Their work provides a unique perspective on these remarkable landscapes, highlighting our mission and role in public land management as we celebrate our 80th anniversary.”

Rogue River Ranch National Historic Site – 

The Rogue River Ranch residency will take place between June and August 2026 in a breathtaking setting deep in the Rogue Wild and Scenic River Corridor. The remote outpost is a two-hour drive or a 22-mile river trip from Grave Creek Boat Ramp. The selected artist will reside in the historic house. 

Following their residency, the artist will share their vision in a public presentation at the Grants Pass Museum of Art on Oct. 2. Their work will be displayed at the museum for one month and then returned to the artist. The BLM is requesting digital copies of the artwork to promote the Artist-in-Residence program and public lands. The artist retains a non-exclusive use copyright. 

In summer 2025, Artist Alisha Whitman created watercolors during her residency. She shared her experience with the BLM. 

Artists of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and there is no preference given to any style or medium.

Interested artists can learn more information and find an application at the Artist-in-Residence website, by e-mailing Tony Saunders at asaunders@blm.gov, or by calling 541-471-6642.

Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument – The Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument residency will take place in June 2026. The selected artist will be based at a travel trailer at Hyatt Lake Campground while exploring the environment and creating their art. The BLM is seeking visual artists for this residency.

Since 2017, the Artist-in-Residence program has allowed numerous artists to transform the monument’s natural and cultural resources into visual art, objects, and performances.

Last year’s Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument Artist-in-Residence was Paul Atkinson, a gifted photographer who spent his time studying and photographing the monument’s unique landscapes.

During their residency, the artist will share their experience and artistic vision in a public presentation. Following the residency, artists are asked to donate an original artwork piece, which they will retain the rights to.  

Interested artists can learn more information and find an application at the Artist-in-Residence website, by e-mailing John Duwe at jduwe@blm.gov, or by calling 541-618-2320.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

 

Grants Pass High School is expanding its automotive program, now in its third year, to give students more space for hands-on training.

Around 150 students learn the basics of car repair while working on staff and student vehicles. Automotive teacher Travis Rappleyea said it’s been difficult to manage working out of the small garage.

“If a job goes sideways on us, as they very frequently tend to do, then we’re down that space until we can get that vehicle out of here,” he said. “And that’s going to butt heads and interfere with all the other classes that we have going on.”

Rappleyea said having twice as much space means that students will have room to take on more complex jobs.

“When we finally got this outdoor expansion, we can actually work on our cars now as a whole group instead of just half and half,” said senior John Higgins. “And it adds two lifts, so people that need lifts have them.”

The expansion was completed over the winter break. Rappleyea said around half of the students are interested in pursuing auto repair as a career. There’s a mechanic shortage in the Rogue Valley and nationwide, so more mechanics are needed.

“There’s an average of — just in our Southern Oregon general area — 400 job postings a year for automotive technicians, or something very closely related,” said Rappleyea. “They typically stay posted anywhere from 40 to 90 days, so there’s a lot of opportunity.”

Rappleyea said he’s working with Rogue Community College to allow students to earn dual credits by completing RCC’s basic automotive maintenance class in high school.

The district funded the $750,000 expansion through a debt restructuring plan that it said cost taxpayers nothing.

 

dates. 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

 

 

Britt Festival —  first round of artists joining us at Britt this summer

 

We’ve got it all from international favorites to stand-up comedy! We’re bringing rock powerhouse KALEO, global ensemble Pink Martini, and a co-headlining evening with Los Lobos & Los Lonely Boys. You can also look forward to the return of crowd favorite The California Honeydrops, as well as an evening with Jim Gaffigan to add a comedic highlight to the season

Tickets for these shows are on sale NOW for select Britt Membership levels and will be available for purchase to the general public on January 30 at 10 AM Join as a member today to get early access to tickets!  https://britt.org/events/

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

Jackson County Grand Jury Indicts Woman on 88 Felony Animal Abuse And Neglect Charges

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.

 

Ashland Fire & Rescue is hiring Firefighter Paramedics!

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.

Wrong Way Driver Mitigation Construction Project in Southern Oregon

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 · Donations Always Needed to Help Community

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.

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. 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

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

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.

Colder overnight temperatures this week prompt home heating fire safety reminder from Oregon State Fire Marshall

With below freezing overnight temperatures and recent home fires related to heating, the Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind Oregonians about the importance of fire safety. Since January 1, the agency has investigated 10 home fires across the state from various causes.

“These fires come as a tragic reminder of the importance of home heating fire safety, the second leading cause of home fires every year in Oregon,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Following fire safety guidance and testing smoke alarms regularly are important steps every Oregonian can take this winter.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers these tips:

• Keep things that burn, like paper, curtains, bedding, or furniture, at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.
• Always plug space and portable heaters directly into a wall outlet and never into an extension cord or power strip.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of heating equipment fires (46%) occurred in the three-month period from December through February. In the first two weeks of 2026, three fire-related deaths were reported to the Oregon State Fire Marshal. – For more home heating safety tips, visit the OSFM’s website.

Cascades Red Cross Deploys Disaster Relief Volunteers to aid in Winter Storm Response

The American Red Cross is providing shelter to more than 4,000 people in 210 facilities spanning from Texas and Louisiana to Tennessee and Virginia, in response to the blizzard conditions and extreme freezing temperatures affecting much of the country.

The Red Cross Cascades Region (OR and SW WA) has deployed 7 volunteers and 4 more are on standby if they are needed.

These volunteers will be helping with things like sheltering, feeding and distributing emergency supplies.

This extreme weather has also forced the cancellation of hundreds of blood drives in the affected areas, leaving 10,000 units uncollected, intensifying our blood shortage.

Read more about that HERE: https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2026/severe-winter-weather-intensifying-severe-blood-shortage–more-t.html

How can people in Oregon and SW Washington help? Make an appointment to donate blood at https://www.redcrossblood.org/ and help keep the supply strong for hospitals and patients.

Original blood shortage release:

Severe blood shortage: Red Cross blood supply drops 35%

Donors urged to make an appointment to give blood and platelets amid growing flu, winter weather impact

[PORTLAND, OR, Jan. 20, 2026] —

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage as requests from hospitals exceed the available supply of blood, leading to about a 35% drawdown of blood products in the past month. Individuals are urged to give now so patients don’t face delays in lifesaving care. The shortage is especially serious for platelets, types O, A negative and B negative blood.

High flu activity in nearly every state may be sidelining donors, slowing efforts to rebuild the Red Cross national blood supply. At the same time, hospitals already feeling the strain of the worst flu season in nearly 20 years are now also forced to triage critical blood products. Without immediate action, patients who count on transfusions — including trauma victims, mothers in childbirth and people with sickle cell disease or cancer — face serious risk. 

There’s no time to wait — book an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

All who come to give Jan. 26-Feb. 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.

Weather disrupts vital donations

About 400 blood drives were impacted due to extreme winter weather last month alone — more than three times the number of blood drives impacted during the same time the previous year. As a result, thousands of blood donations have gone uncollected. With intense winter weather and freezing temperatures expected across much of the country in the coming weeks, more blood drives could potentially be delayed or canceled at a time when every unit of blood could be the difference for doctors facing difficult choices about which patients receive blood transfusions and who will need to wait.

“Winter always puts pressure on the blood supply, and this year widespread flu and rough weather are making it even tougher,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of Red Cross donor services. “If you’re able, now’s a great time to make and keep blood donation appointments, during National Blood Donor Month. Every donation can be a lifeline for a patient who isn’t able to hold off on critical care.”

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, servicing 65 hospitals in the Pacific Northwest; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

Conflict and Chaos from ICE and CPB at Federal Building and Candlelight Vigil

January 27 – In response to a planned Candlelight Vigil in honor of Alex Pretti, there was a large federal response that made their presence known. The first wave of agents happened just after noon and saw three arrests, all of whom were released. The second wave occurred around 2:30 p.m. and resulted in two more arrests. A third wave came around 4:30 p.m. with more arrests.

The vigil at 5 p.m., organized by the Oregon Nurses Association, came after altercations earlier in the day between demonstrators outside the building and federal agents, who deployed pepper spray, fired pepper bombs and detained multiple people. 

Organizers set up rows of candles on the steps of the plaza outside the Eugene Federal Building on Seventh Avenue and Pearl Street, which houses an office for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other agencies. 

 Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson also spoke, urging the crowd to not be distracted by the federal government’s “division and hatred” and instead to stand together as a community. 

“While we as a community might be heartbroken by these actions and by the horrors that we are seeing across our country, our spirit is not broken,” she said. “We stand together, and we will come through this time, and we will walk this path into the future, and we will be stronger on the other side.”

Videos from Eugene yesterday and last night as ICE attacks the people during a peaceful Interfaith vigil “Singing For Our Lives” and again in the immediate aftermath of the vigil for Alex Pretti hosted by Oregon Nurses Association. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qon6CcAKSfVcCG8fymwUerABg0XtRvms/view

Federal agents pepper sprayed and pepper bombed protesters in front of the Federal Building in downtown Eugene . Later, the protesters rushed the doors, attempting to storm the front entrance chanting “ICE out.”

Even though U.S. District Court Judge Ann Aiken issued a temporary restraining order refraining the Department of Homeland Security from enforcing the provision on the sidewalks surrounding the Federal Building at Sixth and Pearl streets.

The temporary restraining order has been extended three times since it was first issued Dec. 10, pending a response from the federal government. Now, the restraining order is set to expire Feb. 20, 2026.

OREGON IN TOP 10 OF AMERICA’S MOST ARTS-VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
Oregon Arts Commission

SMU DataArts Unveils Top 100: Oregon’s Creative Economy Shines on National Stage

Oregon has once again secured its place as a national cultural powerhouse, ranking No. 10 in the 10th annual SMU DataArts Arts Vibrancy Index. This marks the third consecutive year Oregon has appeared in the top 10, underscoring a sustained commitment to the arts and culture that spans from our bustling metro centers to our historic rural hubs.

From the world-class stage of the Oregon Symphony in Portland and the Hult Center in Eugene to the murals and bronze trails of Pendleton and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, our vibrancy comes from a unique blend of urban innovation and deep-rooted rural traditions statewide.

“Oregon’s creative landscape has long drawn people to live, work and create here,” said Amy Lewin, director of the Oregon Arts Commission and the Oregon Cultural Trust. “This recognition belongs to Oregonians who fuel this vibrancy, leveraging resources and innovation to strengthen arts and culture in every corner of the state. Their creativity shapes the roadmap for a thriving future.”

While the index traditionally looks at data-driven metrics like supply, demand and public investment, for Oregonians, this ranking reflects a lived reality: a state where creativity is woven into the landscape. Oregonians don’t just consume art and culture; they live it.

To mark its 10th anniversary, SMU DataArts expanded its list to 100 communities, analyzing more than 900 areas nationwide. The index measures 13 unique factors, including the number of independent artists, total nonprofit arts and culture dollars and government support.

“Oregon’s ranking is a testament to the fact that arts vibrancy isn’t accidental,” said Dr. Jennifer Benoit-Bryan, executive director of SMU DataArts. “It is built through long-term commitment to funding, public investment in infrastructure, and a culture that values creativity as essential to quality of life.”

For more information on the Arts Vibrancy Index and to explore the data for specific Oregon communities, please visit https://culturaldata.org/arts-vibrancy-2025.   

About the Oregon Arts Commission — The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (formerly the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon Legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission’s expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at: artscommission.oregon.gov.

About SMU DataArts — SMU DataArts, the National Center for Arts Research, is a project of the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University. The mission of SMU DataArts is to provide the evidence-based insights needed to collectively build strong, vibrant and equitable arts communities. Its research efforts range from academic papers published in leading journals, applied research undertaken with community partners, and actionable insights shared directly with arts practitioners. Its programs provide business intelligence tools and resources to help arts leaders leverage data to answer critical management questions and connect research analyses to their own work.

The Oregon Department of Human Services, along with the Oregon Health Authority, has indicated a requirement for an additional $340 million in state funding and 475 more personnel by June 2027.

This is necessary to meet the new obligations imposed by the extensive 2025 tax and budget-cutting legislation proposed by Republicans. The primary reason for this need is the requirement for more personnel to enforce complex work requirements for Oregonians aged 18 to 64 who receive federal food assistance, known as SNAP, or coverage through the Oregon Health Plan.

This information comes from Dave Baden, the deputy director of the state human services agency, among others. Furthermore, Oregon must significantly enhance its eligibility accuracy rates to prevent incurring a federal penalty of nearly half a billion dollars in the 2027-29 period, along with the possibility of additional substantial penalties thereafter.

Officials have also warned that failing to upgrade its computer systems to comply with new eligibility regulations could result in Oregon violating federal Medicaid timelines and requirements.

Additionally, the federal legislation mandates that Oregon absorb $54 million in program administration costs that the federal government had previously agreed to cover. Moreover, the state is required to secure $105 million to fully leverage the Medicaid reimbursement it anticipates for the current two-year state budget, as stated by legislative budget specialists.

OHSU Hospital had consented to provide this funding to the state, expecting to receive a greater amount in return. However, the bill crafted by the Trump administration, known as H.R. 1, has restricted the amount Oregon can reimburse OHSU.

Governor Kotek is allocating 25 million dollars to hospitals in Oregon to ensure the availability of maternity care, federal money that was given to Oregon for the state’s General Fund.

Kotek has instructed that these funds be drawn from the state’s General Fund. Fifteen million dollars will be designated to support the stabilization of maternity departments in rural hospitals. Ten million dollars will be allocated to larger hospitals.

This initiative arises as several hospitals have had to shut down their maternity departments due to insufficient resources.

Govenor Tina Kotek picks Nevada state forester as first woman to lead Oregon Forestry Department

Kacey KC would be the first permanent, female leader of the Oregon Department of Forestry in its 115-year history

After a year-long search, Gov. Tina Kotek has chosen Nevada’s state forester to take the helm of the Oregon Department of Forestry.

Kacey KC would be the first woman to permanently hold the director’s position in the 115-year-old agency’s history. The Oregon State Senate would need to confirm her appointment during the upcoming legislative session before she could take office on March 1.

KC, from Nevada, most recently spent eight years as Nevada’s State Forester Firewarden and three years as president of the National Association of State Foresters.

“Kacey KC brings tenacity and a get-it-done style to her management approach and knows how to build strong partnerships across all levels of government to tackle complex challenges,” Kotek said in a statement.

It’s also the first time Kotek has had the authority to choose the state forester, rather than leaving the decision to the governor-appointed Board of Forestry, following the passage of Senate Bill 1051 during the summer.

Leading up to the change in hiring authority in 2025, the Oregon Department of Forestry had been roiled by controversies in 2024, including going to the Legislature for emergency money to cover its wildfire season bills, executive investigations and firings over workplace misconduct, as reported by The Oregonian/OregonLive. Former director Cal Mukumoto resigned early last year at the urging of Kotek and the agency has been run by interim director Kate Skinner, who was previously lead forester in the Tillamook district.

The Oregon state forester reports to the governor and the forestry board, and oversees the management and protection of 745,000 acres of forestland owned by the state of Oregon, as well as wildfire protection for 16 million acres of forestland in the state. All of this requires negotiating the desires of environmentalists, logging companies, tribes and private property owners.

They also oversee a biennial budget of more than $570 million and roughly 1,400 employees. If confirmed, KC would earn $19,700 per month for the first six months on the job, after which her salary would increase to $21,069 per month, or roughly $252,000 per year.

KC holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry from the University of Montana and is an alumna of the Peace Corps, where she volunteered for two years on community forestry projects in Nepal. Afterward, she returned to her home state to work for the Nevada Division of Forestry, then spent 10 years working on wildfire fuels reduction programs at the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, including as program manager of the state’s Sagebrush Ecosystem Program.

She returned to the forestry division as a deputy administrator of wildfire management in 2015, and in 2018 Nevada’s governor appointed her as state forester firewarden.

In 2021, she was appointed by Congress to a national Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission to update the nation’s wildfire protection systems, and in 2023 her peers elected her president of the National Association of State Foresters.

“I am extremely excited for the opportunity to join the Oregon Department of Forestry team,” KC said in a statement. “While I am not from Oregon, my experience at both the national and state level equips me to deepen key relationships while leading and supporting the strong work and mission of the Department.” (SOURCE)

Oregon Gas Prices Still Much Higher Than The Nation’s

The decrease in gas prices is decelerating. According to Triple-A, the rise in crude oil prices is responsible for this trend.

Nationwide, the average cost for a gallon of gas remained stable last week at $2.82 a gallon for regular gas, a 5-year low thanks to the Trump Admistration.  But in Oregon, thanks to new tax increases from Gov. Tina Kotek, the average price of regular is $3.33 a gallon.

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.

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:

• Online:
  • https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2025-Drones-Take-off-and-Landing.aspx
• By email:
  • D.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov
• By mail:
  • Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
    Attn: Robert Ellison
    725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
    Salem, OR 97301

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

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.

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 1^st 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

    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

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