Rogue Valley News, Friday 10/23 – Medford Domestic Violence Sweep, Fatal Vehicle Pedestrian Crash on Roberts Road, Haunted Candlelight Tours at Oregon Caves, Return Your Ballots Early & Other Local and Statewide News Stories

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

Friday,  October 23,  2026

Rogue Valley Weather

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

Be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area:  https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

er storms.

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Haunted Candlelight Tours are Coming Back to Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve this October for the first time in eight years.  10/24 and 10/31

Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve – Quick, head over to https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/251610/ticket/10253727 and book your Haunted Tour at Oregon Caves!

Offered for the first time since 2018, these candlelight tours are available Saturday, Oct. 24, and Saturday, Oct. 31, with nine tours each day.

Tours are open to visitors ages 10 and older and cost $20 per person.Led by park rangers, the candlelight tours introduce visitors to the cave’s nocturnal world and some of the lesser-known stories from Oregon’s past. Along the way, visitors may encounter bats and spiders and explore dark passages by candlelight – but there are no jump scares

 

 

Jackson County Fire District 3 and Jackson County Fire District 5 signed an agreement to combine their operations starting January 1, 2027

Fire District 3 will provide all emergency response and support services within the Fire District 5 service area. Service levels will match those throughout Fire District 3, including emergency response, fire prevention, public education and risk reduction programs.

Both agencies will remain legally separate entities governed by their respective elected boards. Fire District 5 will reimburse Fire District 3 for the cost of services provided, while any remaining debt obligations of Fire District 5 will remain the responsibility of Fire District 5.

All Fire District 5 employees and apparatus will transfer to Fire District 3. Fire Chief Mike Hussey credited the success of the agreement to the collaboration between firefighters, labor organizations and district leadership. “The collaboration and professionalism shown throughout this process have been outstanding,” Hussey said. “Our labor groups worked together to create a smooth transition that protects employees while strengthening service for our communities.”

The consolidation of resources will create operational efficiencies that can be reinvested into service delivery. These efficiencies will support the reopening of Station 4 and the expansion of staffing levels across the Fire District 5 service area.

Beginning in mid-May 2027, all three Fire District 5 stations will be staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This enhanced staffing model will be achieved through the hiring of additional personnel and the successful graduation of academy recruits in early May.

 

 

Southern Oregon ballots for the November 3, 2026 midterm election have been mailed out to voters and election officials ask you to get out and VOTE early

𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝: Voters are encouraged to use official ballot drop boxes. Due to postal service delays, voters are encouraged to mail their ballot by October 27. Ballots must be in a drop box or postmarked by 8 p.m. on November 3.

 

Medford School District Searching for New Head of Security

https://www.medford.k12.or.us/employment1/careers-in-msd/classified-staff

 

Senior Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Lorenzo Mejia is awaiting written filings from the Oregon Health Authority, Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center, and the legal defense team for former nurse Dani Marie Schofield before ruling on a critical evidentiary dispute. 

• The Charges: Dani Schofield faces 44 counts of second-degree criminal assault. 
• The Allegations: Prosecutors allege Schofield diverted liquid fentanyl from patients at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford and replaced the IV fluid with unsterile tap water. This allegedly caused severe, life-threatening bloodstream infections in 44 patients, 16 of whom later died. 
• Current Status: Schofield has pleaded not guilty. Her trial—originally scheduled to begin in September 2026—has been canceled indefinitely while Judge Mejia reviews the upcoming legal briefs. No new court date will be set until this evidentiary dispute is resolved.
   

 

Crews have made major progress on both the Cleetwood Cove Trail and Marina Rehabilitation and the East Rim Drive Rehabilitation Project at Crater Lake National Park. 

In a statement, park officials said, “These projects represent a significant, multi-year investment in safety, park infrastructure, and the visitor experience. Improvements to East Rim Drive and key visitor areas will enhance the quality and durability of the route used by Ride the Rim participants and expand access to more secluded areas of the park.”

 

 

The 2026 WomanKind Biennial, on view September 18 through October 30, brings together 25 local women artists, nonprofit organizations, women-owned and local businesses, and
Jackson County Library Services for a community-based contemporary art project connecting
visual art with women’s causes, cultural exchange and direct community action.

Exclusive to the press Media Day will feature a panel of participating artists and collaborators
speaking directly with the press in the Main Gallery about the opportunities and challenges of being a female artist, women’s entrepreneurship, women’s causes, period poverty, and the role art can play in strengthening community. Panelists will answer questions, with opportunities for interviews, photography and video.

ART INTO ACTION
A central activation of WomanKind 2026 addresses period poverty and access to menstrual
products. The project has already raised approximately $4,000 toward period products, with
additional donations collected throughout the exhibition.

The public is encouraged to bring period products for the domestic violence shelter and
nonperishable food for the ACCESS food drive. Period-product donations will become part of
an evolving sculptural installation during the exhibition and will ultimately be donated to the
shelter through Women Entrepreneurs of Southern Oregon (WESO).

Jackson County Library Services librarian Jody Flemming is contributing an installation
addressing period poverty and will give a public presentation on the subject October 17.
WomanKind collaborators include ACCESS, Talent Period Dignity Project, AAUW —
American Association of University Women, Rogue Valley Metaphysical Library, Women
Entrepreneurs of Southern Oregon (WESO), Jackson County Library Services, and six
Southern Oregon businesses. Several participating businesses are women-owned, while
Blackwell Frames and Tlalli participate both as businesses and artist contributors.

The release of this Media Day announcement comes later than originally planned for a positive reason: the extraordinary community enthusiasm surrounding WomanKind has caused the project to continue expanding as artists, organizations and businesses have joined the collaboration.

First created as a successful community-based art project in 2024, WomanKind returns in
2026 as a biennial, expanding its mission to support local female artists, elevate women’s
causes, create cultural exchange, and turn contemporary art into tangible community action.  https://roguevalleymagazine.com/2026/10/01/womankind-biennial-brings-25-southern-oregon-women-artists-together-for-art-advocacy-community-action/

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 · 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 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.

 

10/23/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

Oregon, the 2026 General Elections Voter’s Pamphlet is now available to preview online at oregonvotes.gov/voterspamphlet.

The Oregon Voters’ Pamphlet is a source of information about candidates, measures, and voting rules.

Translated copies will be published Friday, October 9, and printed pamphlets will be delivered between October 7 and October 9.

 

Oregon, bring your voting questions to our virtual Oregon Votes Town Hall on Oct. 27 at 6 pm!

Join Secretary of State Tobias Read & Senator Ron Wyden for an engaging, nonpartisan discussion moderated by EOU President Dr. Kelly Ryan about how we run elections in Oregon. RSVP: https://sos.oregon.gov/Pages/virtual-town-hall.aspx

 

Feds intercept ‘suspicious’ package intended for Oregon election office

Federal officials intercepted a “suspicious package” addressed to Oregon’s election office before it arrived in the state, Secretary of State Tobias Read said Friday.

“We are not aware of any additional suspicious packages heading to Oregon, but our office and our federal partners remain vigilant, and we are asking local elections officials to do the same,” Read said. “We are prepared to respond if a package arrives in Oregon, and we will do everything we can to protect Oregonians’ safety and the integrity of our elections.”

A spokesperson for Read said the office didn’t have any further information about the package. An FBI spokesperson confirmed that the bureau and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service are investigating “a series of suspicious mailings” sent to election offices nationwide.

“Some of the letters contained an unknown substance and we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to respond to each incident,” the statement said. “We are also working with our partners to identify the individual or individuals responsible for the letters. This FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to safeguard the public and secure elections for American citizens.”

The incident coincides with other mail being sent to election offices around the country, including letters containing white powder prompting evacuations in Arizona and Louisiana. 

Federal officials also intercepted a package with white powder and a threatening letter intended for Minnesota’s secretary of state. 

Similar incidents have happened in prior elections, including a letter that temporarily shut down ballot counting in Lane County in 2023. 

Oregon began mailing ballots to all registered voters on Wednesday, and they must be returned in signed ballot envelopes by 8 p.m. on Nov. 3. Election officials recommend that voters who choose to return their ballots by mail do so by Oct. 27 to account for U.S. Postal Service delays. (SOURCE)

Oregon Department of Human Services  · Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027 plans began Oct. 15 and will remain open through Dec. 7, 2026.

The Oregon Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program (SHIBA) provides free help so that you can understand your Medicare benefits and make informed decisions. For example, SHIBA certified counselors can help you:- Compare and select Medicare plans- Review your current coverage- Make changes for the upcoming year.“Navigating Medicare coverage is complex and Oregonians should not have to navigate Medicare alone.

Our goal is to make that process easy, accessible, and free.” – ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities Director Nakeshia Knight, Ph.D.Read more in this news release: https://apps.oregon.gov/…/oregon-program-offers-free…

Oregonians are invited to take part in this year’s Roadside Wildlife Count project, which aims to pinpoint areas with significant occurrences of roadkill or live wildlife near roadways

The 2026 Oregon Roadside Wildlife Count is happening right now, running from October 17 to October 25, 2026. Organized by the Environment Oregon Research & Policy Center in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), this 9-day community science project relies on volunteers to map wildlife-vehicle conflict zones across the state’s 70,000 miles of roadways. Project Goals & Importance:

• Pinpoint Collision Hotspots: By tracking where animals are living near roadways or where roadkill occurs, organizers can identify priority zones for new mitigation infrastructure, such as underpasses, culverts, and bridges.
• Support Wildlife Crossings: Strategically placed crossings combined with fencing have been proven to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by over 90%. Data from this count will help the state back up proposals for federal and local funding to build these life-saving corridors.
• Seasonal Migration Peak: Collecting data during late October is crucial. Wildlife collisions typically jump by roughly 16% in the week following the autumn time change due to decreased daylight, deer/elk rutting seasons, and changing traffic patterns.

How to ParticipateAnyone traveling on Oregon’s roads can register to participate through the Environment Oregon Event Page.

1. Download the App: Install the free iNaturalist app on your smartphone.
2. Document Sightings: Snap photos or record observations of any animal—whether it is a live elk next to a country road or a small creature that was struck by a vehicle.
3. Upload Data: Submit your photos to the app. Your device’s built-in geotagging will automatically map the exact coordinates. The data will feed directly into existing long-term state data networks, including the ODFW’s Roadkills of Oregon iNaturalist project.

Important Safety Reminder: Never look for or document wildlife while operating a vehicle. Drivers should always pull over completely to a safe area before using a phone, or have a passenger handle data entry.

SPECIAL REPORT

Kaylub Giamanco recalls the events immediately after he followed the 16-year-old shooter into Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend in an exclusive interview with OPB.

Warning: This story contains graphic details.Three children — ages 5, 8 and 11 — and a 25-year-old teacher were killed on Oct. 15. Two others were seriously wounded.

Giamanco pursued and fatally shot the teenage shooter with a personal weapon he stored in his truck.In an emotional interview, Giamanco described seeing the boy with a weapon entering the elementary school where he had earlier dropped his two young daughters off for school picture day.

He said he made a split-second decision to pursue the shooter. He described it as the scariest day of his entire life, and said he’s thinking of the victims’ families, wishing he could have saved their loved ones. — Read more and watch the interview on OPB.org.

Over 100 students at Lakeridge High School in Lake Oswego walked out of classrooms Thursday morning with one message: they don’t feel safe in their schools. The walkout, one of several in Oregon, was a direct response to last week’s deadly shooting at Silver Rail Elementary in Bend

“What happened in Bend is truly heartwrenching. Great job by the Bend Police Department for getting there so quickly and thank you to the angel bystander who stepped up to stop the shooter and probably saved more lives of staff and children. Our prayers are with you Bend and for all of Oregon as this affects us all.”

Oct. 21 Silver Rail Elementary School Shooting Update

UPDATE: The Bend Police Department has confirmed that the firearm used in Thursday’s shooting was purchased legally. We are not sharing further information about the firearm at this time. The Bend Police Department continues its investigation into last Thursday’s tragic incident at Silver Rail Elementary School.

This morning, dozens of officers were waiting at each of our Bend public schools to welcome students back to their classrooms. They’ll be there again at the end of the day. You’ll likely see an increase in police presence in and around our schools over the coming days and weeks. That’s because we want students and staff to feel as comfortable as they can during a difficult, emotional time.

Our Department will continue working with the Bend-La Pine Schools as they assess safety protocols and operations in their schools.Bend Police detectives continue this complex investigation. They have served search warrants at the shooting suspect’s home, as well as on his electronic devices and his social media accounts on a variety of platforms. That work continues, and it takes time. Our detectives continue to investigate details surrounding the firearm used in this incident.

There are still a lot of pieces to this case that we are unable to share at this time, and we appreciate your patience as we ensure the integrity of the investigation. It is important to our Department that we do this right.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office reported that 204 individuals have signed up to begin the process of obtaining a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) following the Oct. 15, 2026, shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend.

Key details reported by the sheriff’s office and local media include:

• Number of Applications: 204 people started the CHL application process in the week following the shooting, which is double the number of new CHL applications recorded for the entire quarter ending in July 2026.
• New Training Class: In response to the high demand, the sheriff’s office scheduled an additional CHL training class for Saturday, November 14, 2026 (with 45 spots available).
• Sheriff’s Statement: Sheriff Ty Rupert noted that historical trends show increased interest in concealed handgun licenses following major community-impact incidents.

State Agencies Share Community Support and Healing Resources Following Bend Tragedy

— As the Bend community grieves following the tragic events at Silver Rail Elementary School, state and local partners are sharing resources to support students, families, educators, first responders and community members in the days ahead.

Oregon stands with the Bend community during this incredibly difficult time. As families process the tragedy, officials encourage people to seek support, spend time with loved ones and take advantage of community resources designed to provide connection, comfort and space to grieve.

Immediate Crisis and Family Support – Community members who need additional or immediate support can access the following resources:

• Deschutes County Stabilization Center: Open 24/7 at 63311 NE Jamison Street in Bend.
• Deschutes County Crisis Line: Call 541-322-7500, ext. 9 for immediate support.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations’ Disaster Distress Helpline provides confidential crisis counseling and support 24/7 Call or text: 1-800-985-5990. Spanish-language support is available by pressing 2.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24 hours a day. Spanish-language support is available.
• The National Mass Violence Center created a Bend-specific resource guide with information and resources to help individuals and families following the tragedy.

Resources to Help Children

This tragic event has evoked a range of emotions and safety concerns across the United States. In response to such events, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network has developed resources to help children, families and communities navigate what they are seeing and hearing, acknowledge their feelings, and find ways to cope together.

These resources include:

• Parent Guidelines for Helping Youth After the Recent Shooting (En Español)
• Talking to Children about the Shooting
• Helping Youth After Community Trauma: Tips for Educators (En Español)
• Talking to Children: When Scary Things Happen (En Espanol)
• Creating Supportive Environments: When Scary Things Happen (En Español)
• For Teens: Coping After Mass Violence
• Helping School-Age Children with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers (En Español)
• Helping Young Children with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers (En Español)
• Helping Teens with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers (En Español)
• Guiding Adults in Talking to Children about Death and Attending Services
• After a Crisis: Helping Young Children Heal (En Español)
• Age-Related Reactions to a Traumatic Event (En Español; ASL)
• Once I Was Very Very Scared (En Español) – children’s book for young children
• I Don’t Know How to Address Worries About My Child’s Safety at School (webinar)
• The Power of Parenting: Helping Your Child After a Family Homicide Loss

Help Support the Community -As Bend continues to grieve, community members can help by checking in with loved ones, supporting children with age-appropriate conversations, respecting the privacy of affected families and avoiding the spread of unverified information.

For the latest and most accurate official information about the incident and investigation, follow the Bend Police Department on social media, or check their press release page.

In addition, GoFundMe’s Trust & Safety team states they are closely monitoring the platform and reviewing fundraisers related to this incident. A central hub of verified fundraisers has been launched for the Bend community and several fundraisers connected to this tragedy are currently under review. GoFundMe states that all funds related to this event will remain on hold until the verification process is complete. Media line: 503-934-3310 or OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov

It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to lead collaborative, statewide efforts to support Oregon’s communities before, during and after emergencies, with a vision to create a ready and resilient Oregon. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. For more information about OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

 

Oregon Housing and Community Services Earns National Award for Preserving Affordable Housing

Recognition highlights strategies to preserve more than 2,200 affordable rental homes  

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) received a national Award for Program Excellence from the National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA) for its work to preserve affordable rental housing and strengthen housing stability across Oregon.

The award was presented Oct. 5 during NCSHA’s 2026 Annual Conference in Detroit. OHCS was recognized in the Rental Housing category, Encouraging New Construction and Promoting Preservation, for “Strategies to Preserve Oregon’s Affordable Housing Portfolio.”

The recognition highlights the agency’s coordinated approach with partners to protect existing affordable homes through targeted financial investments.

“Day by day, community by community, we are working to build an Oregon that everyone can afford to call home,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “OHCS is grateful to our partners for helping us deliver on this commitment to the people of Oregon.”

Across Oregon, affordable housing properties face rising operating costs, aging buildings, and financial pressures that can threaten long-term affordability. An OHCS analysis of 748 properties with more than 47,000 homes found operating costs increased 20% between 2021 and 2023, while rental income only grew about 11%. To address these challenges, OHCS launched Property Stabilization Investments in October 2025. The program awarded $39 million to 30 projects, helping preserve more than 2,200 affordable rental homes. The funding came from a legislative investment in housing preservation approved in 2025.

Working with property owners and lenders, the program helps financially distressed properties reduce debt and lower monthly loan payments. These investments improve properties’ ability to cover operating costs and maintain affordable housing. This limited funding also supports addressing needed critical repairs that can return vacant homes to active use.

OHCS paired these investments with approximately $2 million in capacity-building grants to 13 partners across the state to strengthen property and asset management. The agency also reduced administrative burdens by providing more flexibility in waitlist management, implementing Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act requirements to streamline verification processes across programs and allow additional verification methods, and simplifying income recertification requirements where permitted. These changes help housing providers focus resources on residents and property operations, and not red tape.

Together, these strategies help protect public investments in affordable housing and support long-term stability of the organizations that own and operate it.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) — OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians with low and moderate incomes. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

Explore Health launches tool to help people navigate health coverage options for 2027

Plan Guide will help people in Oregon find financial help, compare health plans.

— People in Oregon can now get an early look at their health coverage options for 2027 with the launch of the Explore Health Plan Guide, a new online tool designed to help people prepare for Open Enrollment.

The Plan Guide helps users explore individual health and dental plans available in their area and compare costs, benefits and coverage. Users can also enter their prescription medications and doctors to see which plans may best meet their health needs.

The tool provides an assessment for potential eligibility for Oregon Health Plan (OHP) benefits and financial help through the Marketplace, including an estimate of the amount of financial assistance someone may qualify for.

“Choosing health insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when plans and coverage options are changing,” said Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “The Plan Guide gives you a chance to explore options before Open Enrollment begins so you can better understand what coverage and financial help may be available.”

The new tool is especially timely for 2027. Providence and PacificSource will no longer offer individual health plans in Oregon, and Moda will  only be available in select counties. The Plan Guide can help people affected by these changes understand which plans are available in their area and compare their options before selecting coverage.

Explore Health is available for people in Oregon who do not have access to affordable health coverage through their job and are not eligible for public medical programs such as the Oregon Health Plan.

Open Enrollment for 2027 health coverage runs from Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027. The Plan Guide is available now to help people explore their options ahead of Open Enrollment. Using the tool does not enroll someone in coverage.

Explore Health is Oregon’s new state-based health insurance marketplace. Starting with the 2027 plan year, eligible individuals and families will be able to use Explore Health to shop for and enroll in Marketplace health coverage.

To explore the Plan Guide or learn more about Open Enrollment, visit ExploreHealthOR.gov. People in Oregon can also make an appointment with an Enrollment Partner for help understanding their options and enrolling in coverage.

DOR releases latest Property Tax Statistics report

The Oregon Department of Revenue has released the Fiscal Year 2025-26 edition of its annual Oregon Property Tax Statistics report. Property taxes are among the most important sources of revenue for the public sector in the state, raising $10.07 billion for local governments in FY 2025-26. Only state personal income tax collections exceed property tax collections as a single source of state and local tax revenue.

What is the Oregon Property Tax Statistics report? This publication tells the story of Oregon’s property tax system through statistical information, including a brief overview of Oregon’s property tax system since 1990 and the steps of the property tax process in Oregon.

It presents information about property values, taxes imposed, and highlights such as recent trends in Oregon’s property tax system. Detailed Tables and the Oregon Property Tax Statistics Supplement can be found on the DOR website.

Who uses the Oregon Property Tax Statistics report? The report provides information valuable to legislators, state and local government officials, businesses, taxpayers, the general public, and media reporting on tax and revenue issues.

Where can you get the Oregon Property Tax Statistics report? The report can be accessed online at and is presented in PDF format so that pages, sections, or the entire report can be easily printed.

Oregon to increase 2027 payments to care organizations for Health Plan members 

Next year, Oregon will pay an average of nearly $630 more per member every month to the organizations arranging providers for the vast majority of Oregon’s 1.4 million Medicaid members under new fixed payment rates announced by the Oregon Health Authority.

While the new rates — a 6.1% increase from this year — still need formal approval by the federal government, the agency said in a Monday news release that it expects the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid to approve the rise by the end of 2026. The health authority said the increases will ensure healthcare remains accessible statewide in light of people losing coverage due to federal policy changes and rising healthcare costs.

“Oregon Health Authority remains focused on ensuring people enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan can receive quality healthcare well into the future,” Rochelle Layton, the Oregon Health Authority’s chief financial officer, said in a statement. “Our updated 2027 rates support the financial stability of the coordinated care organizations that help us deliver Medicaid benefits across the state.”

The increase for payments to Oregon’s 15 coordinated care organizations is lower than last year’s rate increase at 10.2%, but it aims to stabilize the health market in Oregon at a time when operating margins have been slow to climb for providers who are reliant upon the model and state funding. 

Providence Health Assurance, which is contracted with a coordinated care organization, for instance, announced earlier this year that it would be ending coverage in Oregon. The organization cited an untenable financial environment, and its members by 2027 will transition to CareOregon for their coverage instead.

The increased dollars to coordinated care organizations also come after the payment structure has faced increased scrutiny for its use of taxpayer dollars. A September audit from the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office found that the health authority made up to $4.1 million in erroneous payments through its fixed monthly payment program to the local insurers.

Amy Bacher, a health authority spokesperson, stressed in an email that the audit found a low payment error rate and that “OHA already takes steps to identify these instances and follow-up proactively.” The audit found that 0.0004% to 0.0064% of Medicaid program spending over the past few years involved duplicative monthly fixed payments.

“This low percentage is the result of coordination between OHA, federal and state partners, ensuring strong accountability for taxpayer funds while keeping healthcare accessible and sustainable for Oregon,” she said. (SOURCE)

Oregon celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October

Oregon joins in the celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) this October. It’s a time to celebrate the contributions people with disabilities make in workplaces and recognize businesses that recruit and hire employees with disabilities. 

This year’s theme of “celebrating value and talent” is reflected in Oregon throughout the year in the countless ways people with disabilities bring value to their jobs and communities. 

NDEAM webinar series — Partners who deliver employment services invite everyone to join a series of webinars in October to celebrate workplace successes and educate the community about resources and services available for job seekers with disabilities. 

Webinars are scheduled Tuesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Zoom. For details on each session and accessibility information, go to Oregon’s NDEAM event web page.

• Oct. 27 – Technology in employment: How assistive technology and AI can support people with disabilities at work
   
• Nov. 3 – Peer2Peer: An award-winning employment mentorship program for students with disabilities

These events are hosted by the Oregon’s Department of Human Services (ODHS) Office of Developmental Disabilities Services and Vocational Rehabilitation program, Oregon Commission for the Blind and the Oregon Department of Education.

Oregon Division of Financial Regulation keeps pause on cancellations in place by extending wildfire emergency order another 30 days – ends 10/29

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has extended the wildfire emergency order and bulletin a second time for 30 days to Oct. 29. The order was set to expire Sept. 29. The division initially issued the order in late July for people affected by the state’s wildfire situation and extended it 30 days in late August.

The ZIP codes listed in the bulletin remain covered.  As a reminder, this order requires all property and casualty insurance companies to take proactive measures to protect people in wildfire affected areas.

The order: • Suspends cancellations and nonrenewals 

• Establishes a grace period for premium payments for all insurance policies issued, delivered, or covering a risk in the affected areas

• Extends deadlines for policyholders to report claims or submit other claims-related communications

• Requires all insurers to take all practicable steps to provide opportunities for policyholders to report claims 

If your home or property was damaged by the wildfires, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss your situation and learn next steps. If you still have concerns, the division’s consumer advocates are here to help. Call 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. 

Visit the DFR’s wildfire insurance resource page to view the order, bulletin, and more insurance information. ### About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov. 

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation, along with 33 other state financial regulatory agencies, has finalized a $2.5 million settlement with Coinme Inc., a cryptocurrency money transmitter and kiosk operator based in Seattle, due to breaches of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and anti-money laundering (AML) regulations designed to protect the financial system from illegal activities.

Coinme Inc. has agreed to a $2.5 million multistate settlement with 34 state financial regulators, including the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation, over Bank Secrecy Act and anti-money laundering violations. Under the agreement, Coinme must terminate its virtual currency kiosk operations by January 1, 2027, or face an additional $4 million penalty. Key Settlement Terms:

• Financial Penalty: Coinme will pay a total of $2.5 million distributed among participating states based on transaction volume, with Oregon receiving $101,425.34.
• Kiosk Shutdown Deadline: Coinme must shut down all of its crypto kiosk (Bitcoin ATM) operations in participating jurisdictions by January 1, 2027, or incur a $4 million penalty.
• Independent Oversight: The company must hire an independent consultant to audit its BSA/AML compliance program and submit a full report to the states within six months.

Regulatory Findings:

• Regulators identified systematic deficiencies in Coinme’s transaction monitoring, know-your-customer (KYC) protocols, suspicious activity reporting (SARs), recordkeeping, and enhanced due diligence.
• The enforcement action followed a joint multistate examination covering the period from March 2023 through March 2025.

A Dragon in My Campground at Champoeg State Heritage Area

Aurora, Ore. – Oregon State Parks invites you to join award-winning author Silpa Kona for the launch of A Dragon in My Campground, a reading, and a Monster Watchers camping activity for kids and families on Oct. 17 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Books will be available at to purchase from the author and at the visitor center store.

Kona’s Monster Watchers series, which includes A Monster on My Trail, winner of a Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards Gold Medal, and A Dragon in My Campground, winner of a Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards Silver Medal, are a celebration of imagination, courage and exploring the outdoors. 

In her own words, “I wrote it because I wanted kids—especially kids with big imaginations, big fears, or big feelings—to see themselves out on the trail. To know that being scared is okay. And that sometimes, the monster is just… a shadow with good PR.” 

The event takes place at the Champoeg State Heritage Area visitor center. Pets are not allowed inside the building. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The event is free, but all vehicles must display a valid Oregon State Parks parking permit or camping reservation. 

Oregon State Parks is committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact Park Ranger Jeremy Williams at 503-800-3958 at least three days prior to the event.

 

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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.

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

ODVA invites Oregonians to Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony Nov. 11 at Capitol

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs invites Oregonians to join in honoring all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces at the Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the Oregon State Capitol State Park in Salem.

The annual ceremony will feature remarks from state leaders and special guests, along with traditional ceremonial elements honoring the service and sacrifice of Oregon veterans. Additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.

The ceremony will be held on the Capitol Mall, directly across Court Street from the front entrance of the Oregon State Capitol. The event is free and open to the public and will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/odvavet.

Statewide Veterans Day Events — ODVA also maintains a Statewide Veterans Day Events Calendar highlighting local observances and community celebrations throughout Oregon. To find an event near you, visit oregondva.com/event-calendar.

Organizations hosting Veterans Day events are encouraged to submit their event for inclusion on the calendar using the “Add Your Event” link on that page.

If you have any questions, please contact ODVA at (800) 692-9666 or visit www.oregon.gov/odva.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or Tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.

Stay Alive Vets to Host 6th Annual Gala on Veterans Day in Salem- Silver Star recipient Matthew Zedwick to keynote evening honoring veterans and supporting veteran suicide prevention

SALEM, Ore. –(October 13, 2026)  Stay Alive Vets (SAV) will bring veterans, families, and community supporters together on Veterans Day for the 6th Annual Stay Alive Vets Gala, an evening dedicated to honoring those who have served while raising awareness and support for efforts to prevent veteran suicide.
 

The gala will be held Wednesday, November 11, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial St. SE in Salem. The evening will feature dinner, a keynote address, veteran recognition, and live music from The Denominators. 

This year’s keynote speaker is Sergeant Matthew W. Zedwick, a U.S. Army veteran who was awarded the Silver Star for acts of gallantry during combat operations in Iraq. 

“Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served, but honoring our veterans also means being there for them when they come home and making sure they know they are not alone,” said Angela Plowhead, Air Force veteran and board president of Stay Alive Vets. “Our gala brings people together to celebrate the strength and sacrifice of our veteran community while supporting programs that provide hope, connection and help when it is needed most.” 

The sixth annual gala will also provide an opportunity for guests to learn more about the programs Stay Alive Vets supports to address veteran suicide in Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest. 

“Having Matthew Zedwick join us on Veterans Day makes this year’s event especially meaningful,” Plowhead said. “His story reflects courage, service and an extraordinary commitment to others. That same spirit of looking out for one another is at the heart of our work. We want veterans and their families to know that they have a community standing beside them.”

Registration and Tickets

• Tickets: $60/person or host a table of 10 for $600. Purchase here.
• Veteran Tickets: Veterans and families can request their complimentary tickets on VetTix.
• Sponsorship Opportunities:   Buy Sponsorships — Stay Alive Vets: SAV Annual 
• The group is also accepting silent and oral auction items. Contact angela@stayalivevets.org to donate.

Community members are invited to dress up, dine and celebrate while supporting and honoring Oregon’s veteran community on Veterans Day. Additional event information is available at Home | Stay Alive Vets. 

About Stay Alive Vets: Stay Alive Veterans (SAV) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting the veteran community by addressing the pressing issue of veteran suicide. Operated by veterans for veterans, SAV is uniquely positioned to understand and respond to the complex challenges that veterans face after their service. The organization is driven by a deep commitment to ensuring that every veteran has access to the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives after their military careers.

 

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