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
Monday, September 28, 2026
Rogue Valley Weather
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
Medford Airport Grant Advances Repairs and Expansion for Corporate Aircraft
The work centers on the airport’s corporate apron, which serves visiting business aircraft. County plans call for resurfacing approximately 27,000 square yards of asphalt and fully rebuilding another 8,000 square yards. The project also includes improvements to an adjacent hangar taxi lane and the conversion of a grass island into pavement designed for heavier aircraft, creating a continuous connection to Taxiway B.
County officials identified a capacity problem beneath the existing pavement. Corporate jets using the airport have grown larger, and aircraft operating on parts of the apron routinely exceed the pavement’s designed weight capacity. The section slated for full reconstruction received a pavement condition rating of 55, classified as poor in the county’s grant application.
The improvements would give larger aircraft a stronger place to park and provide more room for aircraft movements on the ground. For Southern Oregon residents, the project concerns the airport’s business aviation facilities, rather than its passenger terminal or airline gates. Its potential regional effect lies in the airport’s ability to accommodate visiting companies and aircraft operators whose planes require heavier pavement and adequate parking space. The county anticipates that the added capacity could support business travel and activity at the airport’s fixed-base operators, which provide services such as aircraft fueling.
| Funding Source | Amount | Designated Purpose / Project Scope |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Department of Transportation | $4,455,343 | Primary funding to rehabilitate 20,700 square yards and reconstruct 7,100 square yards of existing apron pavement. |
| Oregon Department of Aviation | $148,511 | Airport Relief Grant covering 3.12% of eligible project costs. |
| Jackson County | $148,511 | Required local matching funds (3.12%) to secure the state grant. |
| Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) | $2,000,000 | Supplemental placeholder funds programmed earlier in the year, intended only if construction bids exceeded expectations. |
Talent Harvest Festival — 55th Annual Talent Harvest Festival 10/3
So much to do at the Talent Harvest Festival!
The City of Ashland and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) are asking residents to stay alert and report any cougar or bear sightings as wildlife activity increases in the area.
You can submit reports using the online Ashland Wildlife Tracker.
- Do not run: Running can trigger a chase instinct and lead to an attack.
- Stay calm and stand tall: Face the animal and maintain direct eye contact.
- Make yourself look larger: Raise your arms or open a jacket, and speak in a firm, loud voice.
- Back away slowly: Always leave the cougar an open route to escape.
- Fight back if attacked: Use rocks, sticks, tools, or spray if the animal becomes aggressive.
An increase in bear sightings has prompted wildlife officials to warn that bears will likely venture into human-populated areas for additional reasons.
The scarcity of berries in the mountains, attributed to a low snowpack last winter and insufficient rainfall, has driven bears into local neighborhoods. As September progresses into early December, bears will enter a phase known as Hyperphagia, characterized by extreme hunger as they prepare for winter hibernation.
During this period, bears consume approximately 20,000 calories daily, gaining two to four pounds each day, and their food intake increases tenfold compared to spring and summer. This behavior leads them to seek out human food sources, which are easily accessible and calorie-dense, requiring minimal energy to obtain.
Weslee Nehl, Animal Ambassador Supervisor with Wildlife Images, emphasizes the need for residents to eliminate potential food sources. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife recommends securing food, garbage, and recycling, removing bird feeders, cleaning and storing grills, and ensuring that pet food is not left outdoors. Additionally, residents with backyard chickens should store chicken feed securely away from the coop.
Linnaea Funk Morales Named Southern Oregon Regional Teacher of the Year
The Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, announce Linnaea Funk Morales as one of Oregon’s 17 2026-27 Regional Teachers of the Year! Morales Funk teaches at Talent Elementary in Talent.
Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon. Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K-12.
“Linnaea exemplifies outstanding instructional practices through her unwavering commitment to students, colleagues, and the profession,” a colleague wrote in Funk Morales’ nomination. “She is a passionate advocate for bilingual learners and consistently centers students’ languages, identities, and lived experiences as essential assets in the classroom.”
In her nomination, Funk Morales notes, “My belief [is] that strong relationships are the foundation of both culture and learning.” She further explains, “By intentionally designing projects that engage real community partners, provide authentic purposes for academic skills, and center student agency, I work to dissolve the traditional boundaries of the classroom. In doing so, I help students build not only academic competence, but also empathy, responsibility, and a lasting sense of belonging within their community.”
Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development.
“We are so proud of this year’s Regional Teachers of the Year who consistently demonstrate hard work, build strong relationships, empower their students, and create classroom environments that lead to student success,” said ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams. “As mentors, advocates, and community leaders, they show us all that the best is on display in schools large and small, rural and urban, from the first years of schooling to the final preparations for a student’s next steps beyond high school. We thank them for their inspiration and can’t wait to see what they do next.”
Thanks to a partnership with Oregon Lottery, each Regional Teacher of the Year will receive a $1,000 award and is considered a semi-finalist for the 2026-27 Oregon Teacher of the Year, which will be announced later this fall.
Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, over $1 million of Oregon Lottery funding went to the Phoenix-Talent School District, and over $16.5 million went to Jackson County.
“These are exceptional educators who inspire students daily across Oregon,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are honored to celebrate their dedication and the lasting impact they have on our students and families.”
On Friday, September 25, 2026, once all 17 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website.
Do you know an outstanding teacher? Please nominate them as the 2027-28 Oregon Teacher of the Year by visiting oregonteacheroftheyear.org.
Shortly following the event, photos from the regional surprise announcement for Funk Morales will be available HERE.
Thanks to ODE’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the 2026-27 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $10,000 cash prize (with an additional $5,000 going to their school) and serves as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers.
Major drug trafficking raids and federal enforcement actions have led recent local headlines in Medford,
- Large-Scale Multi-Agency Drug Raids: On September 23, 2026, a massive coordinated operation involving the FBI, IRS, ATF, and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office targeted a major drug trafficking organization. Simultaneous search warrants were served at homes and businesses across Medford, Central Point, Eagle Point, Rogue River, and Jacksonville. The raids featured heavy police presence, tactical vehicles, and low-flying federal helicopters. Immigration monitoring groups later reported that at least 21 people were detained by ICE during the sweep.
- Armed Robbery and Car Chase: Early in September, Medford police arrested two suspects following an armed robbery at a West Main Street Walgreens. The incident involved a confrontation with employees where a handgun was pointed, followed days later by a high-speed vehicle pursuit.
- Drive-by Shooting Arrests: New charges were filed in a continuing investigation into targeted drive-by shootings at a home in the 3000 block of Carnelian Street. Police arrested a second co-conspirator linked to a vehicle seen firing at the home.
Haunting on Mt. Ashland
A weekend of thrills, chills, and family-friendly Halloween fun is planned in October with the third “Haunting on Mt. Ashland and Chairlift Trick-or-Treat.” The “Haunting,” described as for people “looking for a good scare,” returns for two nights only on Friday, Oct. 9, and Saturday, Oct. 10. Guests will venture through the haunted depths of the historic Karen & Sid DeBoer Lodge before boarding the chairlift and heading into a “frightful walk through Mt. Ashland’s Nature Trail, transformed with scare actors, special effects, and plenty of surprises along the way.”
For younger ghosts and goblins, the Chairlift Trick-or-Treat returns from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, and Sunday, Oct. 11. Kids and families are encouraged to come dressed in costume for a one-of-a-kind chairlift ride and trick-or-treating experience along the Nature Trail, with additional activities in the lodge, food trucks, and Halloween fun.
Tickets and additional event details will be announced soon. The events have quickly become popular fall traditions at Mt. Ashland, and tickets are expected to sell out once released. Follow Mt. Ashland on social media, visit mtashland.com, or subscribe to the Mt. Ashland e-newsletter to learn when tickets go on sale.
Jackson County Emergency Management Invites Community to Get “Winter Ready” at Free Safety & Preparedness Fair
Free, family-friendly event will feature emergency equipment, activities, giveaways, and practical ways to prepare for winter storms and other emergencies.
Central Point, Ore. — Jackson County Emergency Management (JCEM) invites community members of all ages to Winter Ready: A Safety & Preparedness Fair for Families & Kids on Saturday, November 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Mace Watchable Wildlife Center at the Jackson County Expo, 21 Peninger Road in Central Point.
The event is free and open to the public.
Following an active wildfire season across Southern Oregon, Winter Ready shifts the focus toward the hazards that come with the colder months. Emergency responders, nonprofits, and community partners will come together for a hands-on event designed to help families prepare for winter storms, flooding, power outages, evacuations, and other emergencies.
“As wildfire season winds down, our preparedness work doesn’t stop,” said Delaney Richmond, Jackson County Emergency Manager. “Winter brings a different set of hazards to Jackson County, and this event is about helping families understand those risks and take practical steps to prepare.”
Attendees can expect:
- Touch-a-Truck emergency equipment displays
- Live preparedness demonstrations
- Opportunities to meet local first responders
- Practical information about flooding and winter storms
- Games and activities for kids and families
- Giveaways and preparedness resources
“Disasters can look very different from season to season,” said Jackson County Emergency Manager Delaney Richmond, “Knowing what you’ll do during an outage, having supplies ready, understanding local hazards, and knowing where to get reliable information can make a real difference when a storm hits.”
Event Details
Winter Ready: A Safety & Preparedness Fair for Families & Kids
Saturday, November 7, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Mace Watchable Wildlife Center
Jackson County Expo
21 Peninger Road
Central Point, OR 97502
Admission: FREE
Jackson County Emergency Management is producing the event with support from Rogue Valley Community Organizations Active in Disaster (RV COAD) and participating community partners.
Millions of dollars committed to homelessness and housing programs in Jackson and Josephine counties
Governor Tina Kotek’s office released its latest accounting Friday, reporting that Oregon’s homelessness response created or maintained 6,286 shelter beds, rehoused 5,539 people experiencing unsheltered homelessness and provided homelessness-prevention assistance to 25,942 households between January 2023 and September 2025.
Southern Oregon has received millions through emergency shelter programs, rehousing initiatives, rental assistance and housing preservation, with Jackson County receiving one of the region’s largest concentrations of funding and Josephine County participating through Oregon’s rural homelessness network.
Jackson County entered the effort as one of the regions targeted through Oregon’s original emergency homelessness response. Approximately $8.8 million was directed to the Medford, Ashland and Jackson County region with specific objectives attached to the money: rehouse 133 households and establish 67 shelter beds.
Another $1.15 million subsequently reached Jackson County through the Oregon Rehousing Initiative, carrying a goal of moving 50 households from homelessness into permanent housing. Those two funding streams alone place nearly $10 million into the Jackson County region, before accounting for other rental-assistance programs, affordable-housing financing, shelter operations and housing investments connected to wildfire recovery.
Josephine County followed a different financial route.
The county was not among Oregon’s original emergency homelessness regions and instead participates through the state’s Balance of State structure serving rural communities. Through the Oregon Rehousing Initiative, Josephine County received $931,353 administered by United Community Action Network, with funding tied to a goal of rehousing 20 households.
The allocation is not simply a pool for paying rent. Oregon’s rehousing model allows the money to cover rental assistance and supportive services intended to help households move into housing and remain there, including employment assistance, behavioral-health services and childcare. The current funding period extends through June 30, 2027.
Across the rest of Southern Oregon, similar allocations reveal the geographic reach of the program. Douglas County received approximately $935,197 with a 23-household rehousing goal. Klamath and Lake counties received approximately $958,048 with a goal of 25 households, while Curry County received approximately $390,787 for eight households.
Combined with the Jackson and Josephine County allocations, approximately $4.37 million from the Oregon Rehousing Initiative has been assigned across those six Southern Oregon counties, carrying a collective objective of rehousing 126 households.
That money represents one segment of a housing and homelessness system that has expanded dramatically since Kotek took office. (SOURCE)
The Jackson County Board of Commissioners approved a grant on for an expansion at the Rogue Valley International Medford Airport.
The funding comes from the Oregon Department of Aviation and its Airport Relief Grant Program. It will support improvements to the corporate apron at the airport.
The grant pays for 3.12% of eligible project costs, which comes out to $148,511. The county is required to match the 3.12%. The grant agreement was unanimously passed. The project is expected to cost a total of more than $4.7 million.
Because of the value, the case was turned over to the Grants Pass Police Major Crimes Unit. Through a lengthy and complex investigation, Jing Chen, a 35-year-old male from California, was arrested for Conspiracy to Commit Theft. The loss to the victim is more than $200,000 in gold. The investigation is still active. No further information will be provided at this time. We would like to remind citizens to be cautious when receiving suspicious phone calls, texts, or emails. It is important to take additional steps to verify the messages’ contents before responding or taking action. Should you receive a fraudulent message, please report it to the Grants Pass Police Department at 541-450-6260.
Every Wednesday the ACCESS mobile food pantry is at Unete 607 W Main Medford from 4-5:00pm
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City of Roseburg Government — Wondering where to get the facts about City projects, plans, decisions, events and upcoming meetings?
𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆: 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 
Southern Oregon PBS Still on The Air Despite Federal Funding Loss
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.
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 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
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
- Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com
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.
Oregon Department of Human Services – Many Oregonians may qualify for SNAP work or activity rule exemptions without realizing it
9/28/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today
2026 Preparedness Events — Ready Fair
To cap off Preparedness Month, OEM invites the public to attend the Ready Fair on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, in Salem. This free, family-friendly event is designed to help our communities build resilience and preparedness.
The Ready Fair will bring together subject-matter experts and community partners to share practical tips and resources aligned with OEM’s Be 2 Weeks Ready program.
What to Expect:
- Expert-Led Booths on emergency alerts, food and water planning, sanitation, and more
- Interactive Activitiesincluding a fun, earthquake-themed escape room and shake simulator.
- Preparedness for All Ageswith kid-friendly stations and hands-on learning.
- Food Trucksand a chance to win a fully stocked emergency go-bag for your family.
Event Details:
- Date:Saturday, October 10, 2026
- Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Location:3930 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE, Salem, Oregon 97302
- Cost:FREE and open to the public
In addition to the Ready Fair, OEM is encouraging people to participate in the Great Oregon ShakeOut: October 15, 2026, at 10:16 AM (local time). Join millions of people across Oregon to practice earthquake safety. The ShakeOut is a fast, simple drill to help you learn how to Drop, Cover and Hold On.
And the Great Oregon Camp-In: October 16–18, 2026. Held the weekend after the ShakeOut, the Camp-In is an at-home preparedness exercise where households practice living without utilities, refine emergency plans and test their supplies. Participate for a few hours or the entire weekend.
“Community preparedness is strongest when people feel informed, supported, and empowered,” OEM’s Community Preparedness Coordinator Kayla Thompson, said. “Our goal is to meet Oregonians where they are, provide accessible resources, and encourage everyday steps that build resilience long before an emergency happens.”
For more information on Preparedness Month and the Be 2 Weeks Ready campaign, visit www.oregon.gov/oem.
PACIFIC NORTHWEST WILDFIRE UPDATE
Overall wildfire activity across Oregon remains low as of today, September 28, 2026. Thanks to recent cooler weather and rainfall over the past couple of weeks, major forest complexes are heavily contained, and many previously active evacuation orders have been downgraded or entirely lifted.
There are currently 14 active large fires tracked across the state, most of which are in the final stages of containment and mop-up operations. New and Recent Incidents
- Orchard Road Fire (Wasco County): A fast-moving brush fire broke out yesterday afternoon, September 27, just south of The Dalles. The fire grew to roughly 10 acres. Firefighters, assisted by air resources from the nearby Grasshopper Fire, actively engaged the blaze to bring it under control, and mutual aid remains on the scene.
Major Fire Status & Containment Updates
- Grasshopper Fire (Wasco County): This massive fire, which has burned 93,971 acres, is now 98% contained.
- Austin Fire (Clackamas County): The 12,884-acre fire is also nearing full containment at 98% contained.
- 0445 Crosswhite Fire (Wheeler County): The state’s largest fire of the season at 342,923 acres is successfully 99% contained.
Evacuation and Resource TrackingBecause conditions are highly localized, you should verify any immediate, neighborhood-level updates directly through official public safety channels:
- Evacuation Changes: To view the status of active alerts or recently lifted orders, check the Oregon Department of Emergency Management or monitor regional updates via the local emergency management pages.
- Fire Perimeters: For real-time interactive mapping and fire perimeters, you can review the Oregon Department of Forestry Fire Situation Map.
A historic 2.5 million acres have burned in Oregon this year, prompting the state to seek solutions for funding the aftermath. Lawmakers are convening in Salem to address urgent financial requests from both the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Oregon Department of Forestry.
The Oregon Joint Legislative Emergency Board approved $122.8 million on September 10, 2026, to cover ongoing firefighting and suppression costs from this year’s historic wildfire season.
📊 Emergency Funding Breakdown
- ✅ Total Allocated: $122.8 million approved by the Emergency Board.
- ✅ Agencies Funded: Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM).
- 💡 Treasury Borrowing: ODF also received authorization to borrow up to $150 million from the Oregon State Treasury to maintain cash-flow solvency while waiting for slow federal reimbursements.
- ⚠️ Total Projected Cost: State officials estimate the final price tag for the record 2.5 million acres burned could reach around $350 million.
Some SNAP, TANF recipients may need to provide information by Sept. 28 to keep their benefits
— As part of ongoing efforts to improve accuracy of benefits, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is asking some people who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits to provide updated income information by the end of the month.
ODHS began mailing notices Sept. 16. About 11,000 people will receive the notices by the end of the week. As of August 30, 2026, there are 639,261 individuals in Oregon who receive SNAP.
If you received a notice, please read it and respond by the deadline listed in the notice. Providing the requested information gives an ODHS eligibility worker a chance to review your case and make sure your benefits are correct.
If ODHS does not receive the requested information by September 28, your benefits may be reduced or your case may close, beginning with October benefits.
“We know SNAP rules and reporting requirements can be complicated, and receiving a notice asking for more information can be concerning,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, Oregon Eligibility Partnership interim director. “The most important thing people can do is respond so that our eligibility staff can review the case, answer questions and make sure people receive the benefits they are eligible for.”
What to do if you receive a notice
If you receive a Missing Information notice:
- Read the notice carefully. It explains what information ODHS needs and when you need to respond.
- Provide the requested income verification as soon as possible, by Sept. 28. If you do not respond by Sept. 28 you should still contact ODHS, a worker may be able to help.
- Respond even if you think the information is wrong. An ODHS eligibility worker can review the information with you and help resolve differences.
- Contact ODHS if you have questions or need help.
- You do not need to contact your employer to respond to the notice. Send the information requested by ODHS.
- Do not ignore the notice. If ODHS does not receive a response, SNAP and TANF benefits, if applicable, will close on the date listed in the notice.
ODHS expects to conduct additional income checks over the next 12 to 15 months. The timing of future checks is still being finalized.
Why ODHS is doing the income check
ODHS is checking income to help families receive the right amount of benefits at the right time. The check is one of many steps Oregon is taking to improve accuracy and to lower the SNAP payment error rate: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/news/pages/snap-per.aspx.
This check compares income reported to ODHS with earnings information available through The Work Number, an employment and income verification database.
Some SNAP households received a notice because the income reported to ODHS was below 130 percent of the federal poverty level, while information from The Work Number showed that the household’s income may be at or above that level. If a household also receives TANF, the notice includes information about both SNAP and TANF.
Receiving a notice does not automatically mean someone will lose their benefits. People who receive a notice should provide the requested income information by September 28 so ODHS can review their case and determine whether their benefits should change.
How to Get Help
You can talk with an ODHS eligibility worker if you have questions or want help understanding the notice.
- Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075
- Use the ODHS office finder to find a local office.
ODHS also has information online about what SNAP changes need to be reported and how to report them. The page explains different ways to report changes and includes guidance for reporting income and other household changes. – People do not need to contact their employer to respond to the notice. They should submit the information requested by ODHS.
Learn more about reporting SNAP changes:
https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/Pages/report-snap-changes.aspx#how
A new Gold Star Families Memorial Monument was officially unveiled at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland on Sunday, September 27, 2026
The dedication ceremony honored the profound sacrifices of Oregon’s 6,000+ Gold Star Families—those who have lost loved ones in military service to the nation. The monument project was spearheaded by local volunteers, including Nancy Menagh, president emeritus of Gold Star Wives of America, in partnership with the Woody Williams Foundation. Attendees at the emotional dedication included grieving family members like Linda Gibson, whose son, Army Sgt. Brennan Gibson, was killed in action in Iraq.
- Location: Nestled within the grounds of the Willamette National Cemetery at 11800 SE Scott Blvd, Portland, OR.
- Design & Symbolism: These monuments typically feature a two-sided black granite design. One side honors the fallen heroes, while the other pays tribute to the families they left behind, featuring four panels representing Homeland, Family, Patriotism, and Sacrifice.
- Purpose: It provides a permanent, dedicated space for grieving relatives to gather, reflect, and find community support.
This tribute follows the dedication of Oregon’s very first Gold Star Families monument, which was established earlier this year in February 2026 at Pfc. Ryan J. Hill Memorial Park in Keizer, Oregon
Oregon Secretary of State Encourages Voters to Verify Authenticity of Election Mail
(Photo courtesy of Oregon Secretary of State’s Office)
As Oregon officials begin to send ballots out for the upcoming November election, the state’s top elections officer is encouraging voters to verify whether their election-related mail comes from an official source.
Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read’s office recommended in a recent press release that Oregonians look for an official election photo, consider that third-party groups creating fake mail often use outdated or incorrect data and make sure their registration is correct using the oregonvotes.gov website.
The office said the most accurate and up-to-date voter registration information will be with people’s local election offices.
“We’re already getting reports about misleading mail going out to voters, so I want Oregonians to have the tools to be able to tell fact from fiction,” Read said in a statement. “The good news is, it’s pretty simple: If you receive something in the mail about voter registration or your ability to participate in the upcoming election, look for the official election mail logo to verify that it’s from an official source.”
A logo for official election mail will come with a note clarifying that it is authorized by the U.S. Postal Service, and it is used for materials such as ballots, voter registration cards and voter reply mail. It features the stars and stripes of the America flag and the words “Official Election Mail” and “Authorized by the U.S. Postal Service.” It comes in black or specific shades of blue or red.
Read’s office encouraged Oregon voters seeking more information about election-related mail to contact the Oregon Secretary of State’s Elections Division at elections.sos@sos.oregon.gov or by calling 1-866-673-VOTE. He also recommended people contact their local county clerks, who are listed on the secretary of state’s website. (SOURCE)
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek issued Executive Order 26-26 on September 23, 2026, establishing new safety and oversight standards for how state government agencies procure and use advanced “frontier” artificial intelligence models.
Key Details of Executive Order 26-26
- Third-Party Review: Directs the state chief information officer (CIO) to set qualifications and criteria for an independent third-party reviewer to assess AI safety before state acquisition.
- Defining “Frontier” AI: Orders the state CIO to establish a clear technical definition for the most advanced artificial intelligence software subject to these new rules.
- Kill Switch Assessment: Requires the state to evaluate the feasibility and viability of incorporating an emergency “kill switch” to shut down unsafe AI systems.
- Timeline and Review: The order takes effect immediately, with the state CIO given 90 days to submit an implementation proposal. Governor Kotek will reassess the necessity of the order every three months.
Governor Kotek stated that the action was necessary due to regulatory gaps and evolving risks surrounding advanced technology, serving as an interim safeguard until federal or state legislative standards are enacted. You can read the full text and official updates through the State of Oregon Newsroom.
Oregon lawmakers could ban Flock, automated license plate reading cameras in 2027
The move may draw stern opposition from local law enforcement leaders who have long said the technology is crucial to fighting crime despite growing civil liberties concerns.
Oregon lawmakers took action earlier this year to regulate the use of an increasingly bipartisan focus of anti-surveillance advocates nationwide: Flock cameras. Now, they could be on the verge of outlawing the technology altogether.
The push for more legislation in 2027 comes as reports of the technology’s misuse have gained bipartisan condemnation nationwide.
At a U.S. Senate hearing on Wednesday, those concerns were on full display as lawmakers heard from a Florida woman testifying about her experience spending 13 days in jail after a Flock camera misidentified her vehicle in a fatal hit-and-run case.
Flock Safety, the Atlanta-based company behind the cameras, is one of many providers of automated license plate reader technology. It has drawn particular ire from civil rights groups nationwide over concerns that the camera data has falsely implicated individuals in crimes, allowed police to stalk their ex-partners and assisted immigration enforcement. In Oregon, several cities have stopped using Flock cameras over the past year, though private businesses and companies also use them.
“My constituents have been clear with me that they want to be able to go about their lives without being surveilled, and we are quickly moving into a new age in which everything we do is being tracked,” said Rep. Willy Chotzen, a Portland Democrat who serves as vice chair of the House Judiciary Committee. “People don’t like it, they find it creepy, and they want to make sure that we’re protecting our rights to privacy.”
The Oregonian/OregonLive first reported on the push by Chotzen and Rep. Alek Skarlatos, R-Winston, to introduce the legislation in 2027. Skarlatos did not respond to an email or phone call seeking comment.
This year’s law, Senate Bill 1516, was part of a larger omnibus public safety package, allowing Oregonians to sue vendors of automated license plate readers and limiting the amount of time police may hold onto the data to 30 days unless linked to a criminal inquiry or court proceeding. The regulations won the support of law enforcement leaders who cautioned that concerns over a single vendor should not outweigh the importance of the technology at large.
“The ability to share and query ALPR information in these clearly permissible scenarios strengthens interagency coordination, improves case outcomes, and enhances community safety while fully respecting Oregon’s legal boundaries and protected activities,” presidents of the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association and Oregon Association Chiefs of Police wrote in a February 2026 letter.
It’s still too early to tell exactly how either of those groups will mobilize in response to the legislation, though they are likely to make the case that the technology is valuable to their law enforcement duties. Their executive directors did not respond to the Capital Chronicle’s request for comment.
Andrew Smith, a Flock spokesperson, defended the technology in the wake of Oregon lawmakers’ potential action.
“A blanket ban would take a proven investigative tool away from communities and officers who rely on it,” Smith said in a statement. “We supported the last session’s thoughtful, bipartisan legislation that put strong privacy, transparency and accountability guardrails in place — while preserving law enforcement’s ability to use technology responsibly to keep people safe.”
Chotzen and Skarlatos will likely also need to win over State Sen. Floyd Prozanski, a Eugene Democrat who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee. Prozanski, whose office did not respond to requests for comment, has noted that more legislation would likely come in future sessions but has yet to commit to specifics.
“I value the tool for legitimate, lawful law enforcement purposes,” he said in January. “But I also believe that there needs to be safeguards and guardrails.”
Bipartisan opposition growing – Since the law’s passage, some progressive activists and civil rights groups warned the law didn’t go far enough and have hoped to capitalize upon opposition to Flock growing across the political spectrum nationwide. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in August ordered that Flock cameras be removed from the state’s highway system. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has paused state funding for the cameras.
Law enforcement, meanwhile, are defending their experience with the technology and note that Flock isn’t the only name in the game. Privacy advocates contend that many other license plate readers are subject to the same flaws as Flock.
The Portland Police Bureau, for instance, has five automated license plate readers created by the Chicago-based tech company Motorola Solutions. They are installed on vehicles in the agency’s east precinct rather than stoplights or intersections, according to Terri Strauss, a spokesperson for the bureau. The agency has used license plate reading technology for more than a decade, Strauss said.
“ALPR alerts do not provide independent authority to stop a vehicle; officers must confirm an alert and establish their own reasonable suspicion or probable cause before making a stop,” Strauss wrote in an email. “All ALPR data is owned by the city of Portland, securely stored in compliance with Criminal Justice Information System requirements, accessible only to Oregon law enforcement, and cannot legally be shared with immigration authorities.”
Chotzen said there are “real tradeoffs” between privacy and security, but that his community wants more action when it comes to combatting surveillance. He pointed to the actions of Democrats and Republicans across the country as evidence.
“They’re asking for us to swing the pendulum back toward more privacy,” he said. “And we’re seeing across the country folks are doing the same.” (SOURCE)
Public invited to comment on plan to possibly triple logging in eastern Oregon national forests
The public has until Sept. 30 to submit comments on the 350-page draft proposal.Submit comments on the revised Blue Mountain Forest Plan here.
The U.S. Forest Service’s proposed revisions to the Blue Mountain Forest Plan would allow more logging and taking older trees in the name of wildfire prevention
Officials at the U.S. Forest Service are proposing new management plans for eastern Oregon’s Blue Mountains that include potentially tripling the amount of logging across 5.5 million acres in the next decade.
The Forest Service published a draft of proposed changes to the 35-year-old Blue Mountain Forest Plan last week. It would allow more logging, mining and grazing across four national forests spread across eastern Oregon, as well as parts of southeast Washington: the Malheur, Ochoco, Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.
The draft plan describes increases in logging and animal grazing as important to local economies and to preventing wildfire.
It predicts everything from habitat conservation to forest carbon storage would improve over the long term if more logging is allowed because strategically logging and grazing parts of the forest would prevent wildfire, which officials characterize as the biggest threat to habitat and forest loss.
Environmental advocates disagree with the framing.
The Blue Mountains encompass Oregon’s largest protected wilderness areas. Conservation groups have expressed concern and outrage over the draft management plan, which they say could exacerbate area drought and water quality issues, wildfire risks and impact habitat for elk, wolverine, wolves, moose, owls and salmon.
“This plan seeks to open up and pillage one of the wildest places left in the U.S.,” Lauren Anderson, a climate forests manager at the nonprofit Oregon Wild, said in a statement. “The Trump administration is already taking a hatchet to protections for water, wildlife and the public’s voice. This plan is that philosophy in action, putting at risk the very values that make the Blue Mountains special.”
Bev Law, a forest scientist and professor emerita at Oregon State University who has studied extensively the potential forest carbon storage in Oregon forests, found that protected wilderness areas in the Blue Mountains contain the second highest proportion of above-ground carbon stocks in all of Oregon’s protected wilderness areas.
Nick Smith, a spokesperson for the American Forest Resource Council, a trade association representing the timber industry, said in a statement that the group is still reviewing the proposed updates but that change is overdue.
“These national forests face some of the highest wildfire, insect and disease risks in the West. At the same time, the region is steadily losing the sawmills, logging contractors and the skilled workforce needed to carry out active forest management and provide markets for the material that needs to come out of the woods,” he said.
The draft Blue Mountain Management Plan proposal also includes rescinding a 32-year-old rule called the Eastside Screens that prohibits logging trees that are 21 inches in diameter or larger on six eastern Oregon and Washington national forests. Forest Service officials attempted to rescind the rule during the first Trump administration, but conservation groups sued and it was blocked by a federal judge.
Forest Service officials have argued that some younger trees that grow fast should be able to be removed even if they are more than 21 inches in diameter, because they are crowding out other tree species that take longer to grow but are important to the forest ecosystems.
The proposal also assumes Congress will soon rescind the 25-year-old Roadless Rule, which prohibits road construction, logging and mining on roughly 60 million acres of public land, including about 2 million acres of forests in Oregon. That alone would increase the amount of land classified as open for logging in the Blue Mountains by 17%, according to the draft.
Most of the increased logging would take place in the Malheur National Forest, followed by the Wallowa-Whitman and then Umatilla national forests. (SOURCE)
DFR warns of “self-funded” limited-partner health plans
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning consumers to carefully review health insurance coverage offered through “self-funded” limited-partner plans or other unlicensed entities.
Oregonians should exercise caution before enrolling in a limited partner plan. Companies may offer plans that refer to consumers as “limited partners” or “employees” to avoid Oregon consumer-protection regulations. Many limited partner plans cover only preventive care, such as check-ups and annual health screenings. The plans tempt consumers with promises of low premium costs. However, consumers often end up with higher out-of-pocket costs due to uncovered medical bills. With open enrollment rapidly approaching, it is important to know what the difference is between these plans and standard plans. Open enrollment, which begins Nov. 1 and goes through Jan. 15, is for those who do not get insurance through their job, Medicare, or the Oregon Health Plan.
DFR warned of these plans back in April. They are not compliant with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and do not provide comprehensive medical coverage, although they may be marketed otherwise. This leaves consumers with the possibility of being unexpectedly responsible for unpaid medical bills. Individual health plans that comply with the ACA are available only through a licensed insurance agent or through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. Consumers should pay close attention to ensure that they are on the “.gov” website as there are other websites with similar web addresses that offer non-ACA-compliant plans.
“Consumers should remember the adage that if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “If a health insurance policy offers unusually low premiums and low deductibles yet promises full or unlimited coverage, be skeptical.”
Red flags to look for include:
- A salesperson marketing limited partner plans or other “ERISA plans” directly to consumers
- A salesperson claiming they do not need a license because their product is not insurance or is exempt from regulation
- A salesperson offering to sign you up outside open enrollment and without eligibility for a special enrollment period
- A health insurance plan seeming abnormally cheap or referencing “stop-loss” insurance
- A group issuing coverage with minimal requests about an applicant’s health
- A company attempting to quickly collect a large amount of premium
- A company delaying or denying claims and making excuses for failure to pay
Before providing an insurance sales agent with any payment or personal information, DFR encourages consumers to request the agent’s full name and National Producer Number. Consumers can verify the agent’s licensure status by visiting DFR’s check a license webpage.
DFR urges Oregonians to be careful when choosing a company to purchase health care coverage from. Organizations and health plans that DFR and other state regulators have identified as having marketed limited partner or self-funded coverage include:
- Socios Buenos, LP aka Vista Health
- Affordable Benefit Choices LLC
- LP Management Services, LLC
- Aither Healthcare Competitive Health
- NXT Level Health
- Multiplan PHCS Network
- Verdegard Administrators, LLC fka Hawaii Mainland Administrators, LLC
- Pioneer Health/Innovative Healthcare Solutions
- ClearShare Health and Clearwater Benefits LLC
- Emergency Management Alliance
- Premier Health Solutions
- Strategic Limited Partners, LP
- The Vitamin Patch, LLC
Consumers who believe they may have been deceived or have questions can contact our consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.
U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Andrea Salinas have proposed a bill aimed at transferring 18,626 acres of federal forestland to the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, a federally recognized tribe located in western Oregon.
This initiative has raised concerns among conservation groups regarding the potential for increased logging and its effects on wildlife habitats. This legislation is part of a broader movement among tribes nationwide to reclaim ancestral lands, a process that has been infrequent in Oregon, where tribes currently possess only a small portion of their original territories.
The bill has garnered support from all seven Democrats in Oregon’s congressional delegation, who argue that it addresses historical injustices and will enable the tribe to manage the land sustainably while enhancing economic opportunities in the area.
Notable supporters include U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Val Hoyle, Maxine Dexter, and Janelle Bynum.
Pacific Power offers Oregon customers rebates for backup power
Program helps eligible customers prepare for wildfire-related outages and winter storms
With a record-setting wildfire season that brought power disruptions to communities across Oregon winding down, Pacific Power is reminding eligible customers about rebates that can help them prepare for future outage events. As our focus transitions to winter storm season, qualified customers and licensed care facilities can still get help purchasing backup power equipment.
Income-qualified residential customers who rely on electricity for medical equipment can receive a rebate of up to $1,000, and eligible licensed residential care homes, care facilities, adult foster homes and hospices can qualify for up to $4,000 in rebates. These rebates can be used toward a qualified portable power station, battery or permanent backup generator.
“We prioritize emergency preparedness education and communication in our communities so our customers are prepared in the event an outage whether related to wildfire safety or seasonal storms,” said Carrie Laird, vice president of wildfire mitigation and emergency operations for Pacific Power. “We want eligible customers and care facilities to know this assistance is available and encourage them to apply before the upcoming deadlines so that they can take advantage of these helpful programs, which can offer peace of mind.”
To qualify for the residential rebate, applicants need to have an active Pacific Power account number, either as a customer or as the tenant of a Pacific Power customer. They also have to be enrolled in both Pacific Power’s Medical Certificate program and Oregon Low Income Discount program. Eligible customers should select backup power equipment from the program’s qualified product list and meet applicable requirements, which are spelled out in detail on our website.
Licensed care facilities also have to have an active Pacific Power account number, either directly or through a Pacific Power customer whose property they occupy. Eligible facilities include licensed residential care homes, care facilities, adult foster homes and hospices.
Eligible equipment must be purchased by December 31, 2026, and Pacific Power must receive the completed application and purchase receipt by January 31, 2027. Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis until the program’s annual funding is fully used.
Pacific Power launched the Oregon Backup Electric Power Rebate Program in 2023. Since then, the company has issued 421 rebates totaling more than $1.2 million.
The program is also helping communities strengthen their backup power readiness. In 2025, Linn County identified eligible care facilities and encouraged them to invest in backup power. Twenty-seven facilities received rebates of $4,000 each, for a total of $108,000. A batch application process is now available for jurisdictions submitting applications for multiple facilities.
Customers with questions about batch applications for multiple care facilities may email Generator@resource-innovations.com“>PacPowerGenerator@resource-innovations.com.
Check out Oregon State Parks with your library card
Borrow an Oregon State Parks parking permit for free at 82 libraries statewide.
– Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) and the State Library of Oregon are partnering to offer free state parks parking permits to Oregon public libraries. There are currently 200 parking permits available at 82 libraries across the state.
“Oregon’s state parks are for everyone,” said OPRD deputy director JR Collier. “As we assess ways to manage our budget responsibly, we also want to uplift equitable access to our parks.”
Each participating library received up to four parking permits. These are the physical hang tags you check out from the library and put in your car. The permit covers parking in all Oregon State Parks day-use areas for one vehicle. Go to the Oregon State Parks website to find participating libraries. All you need to participate is your library card.
“Libraries help make life more affordable for Oregonians. This program leverages the existing borrowing system to help connects folks of all income levels with the beauty and splendor of Oregon’s State Parks,” said Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian.
Both OPRD and the State Library contributed 100 parking permits to the program to distribute to libraries. The agencies determined how many passes each library would receive based on interest from the library, its proximity to a park charging a day use fee, and the size of the population it serves. The State Library purchased permits with Library Services and Technology Act funds from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.
OPRD first distributed parking permits to 28 libraries as part of a year-long pilot program starting in August 2024. Those passes were checked out more than 2,100 times. At the pilot’s conclusion, OPRD evaluated how to best move the program forward in the context of its changing fees. In 2027, OPRD and the State Library will continue to explore options for an expanded long-term program that will serve even more libraries and people in Oregon. Learn more about the OPRD Library Pass Program.
Statewide hotline available for Oregonians affected by wildfires and smoke
People anywhere in Oregon who have been affected by wildfires or wildfire-related air quality can call 1-833-699-0554 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The statewide hotline is available to people experiencing any wildfire-related impact, including those who:
- Lost a home or property
- Evacuated and have ongoing needs
- Are sheltering in place and have wildfire-related needs
- Are affected by wildfire smoke or poor air quality
- Have another need or concern caused by a wildfire
“During this difficult wildfire season, Oregonians impacted by fires deserve immediate and reliable access to the help they need,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “That’s why we’ve established a dedicated, 24/7 hotline – so that no Oregonian has to navigate this wildfire season alone or wonder where to turn to for help.”
The hotline is staffed by 211info. If a call is not answered, callers can leave a message and will receive a return call within one business day.
This hotline does not provide emergency evacuation assistance or help people locate immediate shelter. People who are in immediate danger, have a medical emergency, or need emergency help evacuating should call 911. People looking for information about shelters or other immediate resources can call 2-1-1. For current 211info operating hours, visit 211info.org.
People can also enter their contact information and describe their wildfire-related needs using the Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form. An ODHS staff member will review the information and follow up with them.
“This wildfire season is already affecting a growing number of Oregon Tribes and communities,” said Ed Flick, Director, ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management. “Wildfires can affect people in many ways, even when their homes have not burned. We want people to know there is one place they can call to share what they are experiencing and learn what resources may be available.”
In previous years the hotline has been used to connect people who lost homes in disasters with recovery support. This year, the Oregon Department of Human Services is expanding it to people experiencing a broader range of wildfire impacts.
ODHS has informally coordinated individual assistance following Oregon disasters since 2020. This year, Governor Tina Kotek directed ODHS to be ready to formally activate individual assistance when needed as the state prepares to establish a formal program in 2027 under House Bill 4121.
211info and ODHS will work with local communities to connect people with existing programs and local resources. If those resources are not enough to meet the level of need, ODHS will work with state leaders to identify additional support and funding options.
The hotline does not guarantee financial assistance or eligibility for a particular program. Staff will listen to each caller’s experience, document their needs and help identify available resources and next steps.
Hotline information
- Call: 1-833-699-0554
- Available: 24 hours a day, seven days a week
- Missed calls: Leave a message and your call will be returned within one business day
- Shelter and other immediate resource questions: call 211
- Emergencies or emergency evacuation help: call 911
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 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.
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
Find the mental health support you need
Click to see all resources https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/find-the-mental-health-support-you-need/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
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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