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,  November 13,  2026

Rogue Valley Weather

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

An atmospheric river is forecast to reach Oregon 

The National Weather Service confirms that the main axis of this atmospheric river has shifted south, sparing the Willamette Valley from the heaviest rainfall while bringing dangerous surf, high winds, and heavy rain to southern Oregon and northern California.

Regional Breakdown & Current Alerts

• Eugene & Willamette Valley. Light rain is moving through the valley on November 13, with Eugene expected to receive roughly 0.31 inches before drying out on November 14. Peak wind gusts in Eugene are projected to stay relatively mild at around 23 mph.
• Southern & Central Oregon. The brunt of the storm is hitting south of Florence and Eugene-Springfield. Southern Oregon and northern California face 3 to 6 inches of rain and wind gusts exceeding 60 mph along the coast and in higher terrain. Wind advisories are also active across Jackson, Klamath, and Lake counties, as well as parts of central Oregon.
• Coastal Hazards. A High Surf Warning is in effect along the entire Oregon coast through November 14, with breaking waves reaching 30 to 35 feet. Forecasters warn of an extreme sneaker wave threat, rolling beach logs, and minor tidal flooding near bays and rivers during high tide.
• Cascade Passes. Snow levels remain relatively high during the initial surge, keeping accumulations light. Willamette Pass is projected to see 0.5 inches of snow on the night of November 13 and 0.4 inches on the evening of November 14. Heavier mountain snow—up to 6 inches above 5,000 feet—is expected later as colder air arrives Sunday night into Monday.

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A widespread Microsoft outage disrupted businesses, local government offices, and schools across Southern Oregon and globally. 

Microsoft reports that repairs and server recoveries are now underway.

Microsoft 365, Outlook, and Teams are recovering from a major global outage that began on Thursday, November 12, 2026.

Current Status of the Microsoft Outage

• Recovery Progress: Microsoft reports that service availability and email delivery performance are improving across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.
• Email Queues: Mailboxes and email queues are approaching normal levels, though Microsoft has extended the email timeout window to 48 hours to protect delayed messages during the final stabilization phase.
• Root Cause: Microsoft confirmed the disruption was a technical issue caused by a network capacity upgrade and subsequent network change—not a cyberattack or AI-related failure.
• Intermittent Issues: Some users may still experience residual, sporadic access delays or slow-loading items while remaining infrastructure finishes cycling back online. You can monitor ongoing incident updates via the Microsoft 365 Status Discussion Board.

Windows Update & Patch Issues

If you are managing local Windows systems or checking recent software updates:

• November 2026 Security Updates: Microsoft warned that recent monthly security updates may trigger printing and PDF export problems (affecting apps using GDI or the WPF framework) as well as Windows activation/licensing errors (0x80041008).
• Windows 11 Version 24H2 Lifecycle: Note that Windows 11 Home and Pro (version 24H2) reached the end of its update cycle on October 13, 2026; Microsoft recommends upgrading eligible home PCs to version 25H2 or 26H2 to continue receiving monthly security patches. You can check or install current patches through the official Windows Update Support Guide.

Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center is with Wooldridge Creek Vineyard.  Tonight 11/13

Join us for a special evening as we celebrate the release of the Wine With Purpose: Best Friends Cabernet Sauvignon, crafted in collaboration with Wooldridge Creek Winery & Wildlife Images.

Friday, November 13th

5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Wooldridge Creek Winery, 818 Slagle Creek Rd, Grants Pass, OR

$30 per ticket– includes a glass of Best Friends Cabernet Sauvignon and a curated cheese pairing.

Enjoy live music, pizza from The Haul, animal ambassador encounters, and wine tastings with thoughtfully paired bites– all in support of Oregon’s native wildlife.

Animal ambassadors will be around from 5:30pm-6:30pm.

Cheese pairing- Crostini topped with Crushpad Creamery’s caramelized onion fromage blanc and cranberry chutney.

Every glass supports a greater purpose: proceeds benefit Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center, helping us continue to rescue, rehabilitate, and care for animals in need.

Purchase tickets here: https://wcwinery.orderport.net/…/wines-with-purpose…

 

Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center – Join us for Steve Irwin Day at Wildlife Images! 11/15

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Did you know a portion of the very first episode of The Crocodile Hunter was filmed right here at Wildlife Images?

Steve Irwin’s connection to Wildlife Images is a special part of our history, and we’re excited to celebrate his legacy and lifelong dedication to wildlife conservation.

Join us on Sunday, November 15, for a special display in our Pavilion featuring Steve Irwin memorabilia, historical artifacts, and a screening of The Crocodile Hunter episode featuring Wildlife Images.

While you’re here, explore the park, meet our Animal Ambassadors, and learn how we’re continuing our mission of wildlife rehabilitation, education, and conservation.

Sunday, November 15, 2026

Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center

Included with regular park admission! No additional ticket is required.

We hope you’ll join us in honoring Steve Irwin’s legacy and the lasting impact he made on wildlife conservation around the world.

 

 

Missing Hunter Found Safe Near Prospect After Three Days

JCSO Case 26-5801 – A missing hunter was found safe Wednesday, November 11, after spending nearly 72 hours lost in the remote wilderness near Prospect. Despite three days outdoors in cold temperatures, the 60-year-old man was in good condition.

The hunter, who went missing Sunday, November 8, walked out of the wilderness and was located by fellow hunters Wednesday at 10:26 a.m. on the 900 Road near County Line Road outside Prospect.

He was taken to a nearby Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) Search and Rescue (SAR) checkpoint, where he reunited with family and friends.

Before the hunter was located, an extensive search effort was underway involving law enforcement, search and rescue teams, and community volunteers.

Search methods included using ground personnel, k9 teams, multiple airplanes, and a helicopter. During the search, JCSO deputies and SAR personnel expanded the search area and requested assistance from the California Oregon Regional Search and Rescue (CORSAR) task force. More than 50 SAR personnel and approximately 80 community volunteers participated in the search.

JCSO extends its sincere appreciation to the SAR teams and community volunteers who dedicated their time and resources to helping bring the hunter home safely including SAR personnel from Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office, and Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office.

Wilderness Safety Tips: What to Do If You Get Lost – JCSO SAR reminds everyone heading into the wilderness to prepare for the unexpected. If you become lost, remember these important safety tips:

• Plan ahead: Before heading outdoors, tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Carry essential survival supplies, including extra food, water, warm clothing, and a navigation device.

• Stay put: Once you realize you’re lost, stop moving and remain in a safe location. Continuing to wander can make it harder for rescuers to find you.

• Call for help: Dial 911 if you have cell service. Provide your location or GPS coordinates if available, and conserve your phone battery.

• Stay warm and dry: Find shelter from wind and rain, add extra clothing, and avoid unnecessary physical activity that could lead to exhaustion.

• Make yourself visible: Wear bright clothing, use a whistle, flashlight, or other signaling device to help rescuers locate you.

Remember: Being prepared and staying in one location can significantly improve your chances of being found safely. For more information on becoming a SAR Volunteer go to https://www.jacksoncountyor.gov/…/search_and…/index.php

ORIGINAL POST:   Search for Missing Hunter in Prospect Area

***Just Got UPDATE******

Lance has been found alive!!!! Thank you all for your help. Law enforcement, SAR, countless volunteers.

Family members of a hunter who has been missing for several days are asking the community to join a large-scale search in rural Prospect near Road 200, past Union Creek.

 

Lance Fenn, 60, is 5-foot-10 and weighs 190 pounds, with brown eyes, gray hair, and a light complexion. He was last seen on the morning of Nov. 8 wearing a jacket, brown pants, boots, and possibly a beanie, while carrying a hunting rifle. Fenn had ridden to a drop-off point in a friend’s vehicle with a hunting partner, but the two became separated and Fenn never returned to their planned meeting spot. His last known radio contact was around 9:30 a.m. Sunday.

 

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) officials launched ground and air search crews around 1 p.m. Sunday. On Monday, family members reported that Search and Rescue hounds tracked Fenn’s scent to a steep embankment, though crews remain unsure if he backtracked or fell over the edge.

 

To expand the effort, JCSO officials activated the California Oregon Search and Rescue (COSAR) Task Force—a collaborative division formed in 2006 and managed by JCSO alongside multiple regional partner agencies. Additional ground and air resources are scheduled to arrive at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday to continue looking for Fenn. Although he is an experienced outdoorsman in excellent physical shape, loved ones note he was not dressed for an extended stay in the elements.

𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗺’𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸!

From NOW until December 31st, visit Sherm’s Food 4 Less or Sherm’s Thunderbird to help feed local families in one of three unique ways:

Buy a Bag to Feed a family of four

Round up your purchase to the nearest dollar at the register

Scan for Hunger with a $1, $3, or $5 at the register

A Jackson County Circuit Court judge quashed defense subpoenas for extensive medical records in the criminal case against former Asante nurse Dani Marie Schofield.

Key Details of the Ruling

• The Judge: Senior Judge Lorenzo Mejia issued the ruling from the bench.
• The Defendants/Entities: Subpoenas directed to the Oregon Health Authority and Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center were set aside.
• The Scope: The defense sought broad statewide and hospital infection data spanning five years—estimated to potentially equal up to 100,000 pages or 700 case files—to contextualize the case.
• Reasoning: Judge Mejia ruled that the defense applied the incorrect legal standard, failed to attach a specific witness to the pre-trial demands, and requested uncompiled or confidential data.
• The Defendant: Dani Marie Schofield, 38, faces 44 felony assault counts alleging she diverted liquid fentanyl and replaced it with hospital tap water, causing patient infections.
• Next Steps: A hearing on remaining expert witness motions is scheduled before the next court appearance in January 2027.

Schofield faces 44 felony assault charges alleging that she diverted liquid fentanyl intended for 44 patients and replaced it with tap water, causing infections. Her attorney, Lisa Maxfield, told the court that Schofield could face up to 250 years in prison if convicted on all counts.

 

 

Every Wednesday the ACCESS mobile food pantry is at Unete 607 W Main Medford from 4-5:00pm

Cada miércoles el camión de comida de ACCESS está en Unete. 607 W Main en Medford de 4-5:00 pm.

 

 

 

The citizen group Citizens for Hawthorne Park is urging Medford residents to review upcoming ballpark design materials and participate in key city council meetings regarding the proposed Eugene Emeralds minor league baseball stadium project.

 

Key Dates & Timeline

• November 6, 2026: 10% design materials and cost estimates for the stadium study are expected to be published on the City of Medford Website.

• November 12, 2026: Medford City Council will review the results of the 10% design study during a study session (open for public observation via Zoom, though public comment is not accepted during this session). 

• November 18, 2026: Medford City Council will hold an official public hearing during its regular meeting, which the citizen group notes may be the primary or only opportunity for public input before any council vote. 

Potential Stadium Locations

The $500,000 feasibility study (jointly funded by the Eugene Emeralds and the Medford Urban Renewal Agency) evaluates two candidate sites:

Hawthorne Park

A conceptual design to transform the downtown park into a multi-use baseball and community complex as part of the Creekside Quarter development concept. (Opponents have organized signature drives to preserve the space as a green park). 

---

Harry & David Field

 

An evaluation of modification costs and viability to upgrade the existing facility to meet professional High-A baseball standards.

 

MORE INFO: https://www.medfordoregon.gov/News-Articles/Baseball-Stadium-Study-Update

 

 

 

 

FOTAS – Friends of the Animals is in Rogue Valley.

· ATTENTION ROGUE VALLEY FOTAS NEEDS FOSTERS

FOTAS has a need for new Cat/Kitten& Dog/Puppy Foster Families!

 

Interested in Fostering but nervous of the time and money you’ll need to spend? FOTAS is here to help with EVERYTHING! You’ll not only get all the necessary supplies, you’ll also be joining an amazing animal community that is here to help!

We have a variety of volunteer opportunities within our Foster Programs to fit all schedules and lifestyles!

To learn more, go to FOTAS.org/foster

The Social Security office in Medford, Oregon, is operating by phone only with no in-person help

The Field Office Locator takes an address, city, state or ZIP code and returns the office’s hours, its phone, TTY and fax numbers, and a link to check for temporary closings. It also links to a page for booking an appointment before visiting an office.

The locator sorts offices by what they handle. Card centers deal with new or replacement Social Security cards and personal information updates. Express card services offices handle similar card tasks and take drop-box items but not benefit applications or appeals. Some offices have limited services and cannot replace cards, so a different office may be needed for those.

The national number is 1-800-772-1213, with a TTY line at 1-800-325-0778, according to Social Security’s page on reporting a death. It lists hours of 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, in most U.S. time zones.

Some errands do not need an office at all. A my Social Security account lets a person request a replacement Social Security number card, change an address or direct deposit, and print proof of benefits or tax forms. None of the three needs a visit to a counter.

The City of Grants Pass invites amateur and professional photographers to enter 2026 Water Quality Report Photo Contest. 

Share your unique perspective on the water that connects our community. Winning photos will be featured in the 2026 Water Quality Report.

Categories:

• K-12
• Amateur
• Professional

Prizes:

• The first-place winner will receive $200
• The second-place winner will receive $100
• Winning photos will be featured in the City of Grants Pass 2025 Water Quality Report

Rules:

• Submit an original photo that demonstrates your perspective on the water that connects our community.Photos must be submitted in a digital format suitable for reproduction.
• Submitted photographs must be from one frame captured by a camera (DSLR, point-and-shoot, smartphone, etc.) and not be a composite of several images layered together.
• Images created by AI (artificial intelligence) are not allowed.
• The agreement form must accompany each entry.
• Entries will be judged based on creativity, originality, and theme relevance.
• Entries become the property of the City of Grants Pass. The judges’ decision is final.
• The winning photos will be featured in the 2026 Water Quality Report, on social media, in promotional activities, and recognized during a City Council meeting.
• Photos must be taken in Southern Oregon, specifically the following counties: Curry, Jackson, Josephine, and Klamath.

Terms and Conditions: 

Employees of the City of Grants Pass and their family members are encouraged to submit photos but are not eligible for prizes. Winners will be notified via email by January 15, 2026. The first-place winning entry will be featured in the 2026 Water Quality Report, on social media, through promotional activities, and recognized during a City Council meeting. 

Prizes are non-assignable and non-transferable. No substitutions are allowed. Winners are responsible for all federal, state, and local taxes. By submitting the entry form, the participant assigns the City of Grants Pass the perpetual, royalty-free, and irrevocable right, and license to use, publish, print, copy, promote, distribute, alter, adapt, modify, edit, reproduce, or otherwise display entries in any way it sees fit without limitation or compensation to entrants for the purposes of public information, public service announcements, and education. 

All photos are subject to creative manipulation needed for the formatting of our report or any additional printed or digital materials used. Submitted photos will become the property of the City of Grants Pass, which may be used for additional materials without any restrictions.

The entry deadline is 5 p.m. December 31, 2026

Submit entries to: smorgan@grantspassoregon.gov

FULL RULES HERE

ENTRY FORM HERE

https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/1434/Water-Quality-Report-Photo-Contest-2026-

Medford School District Searching for New Head of Security

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

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 

Looking for a welcoming place to pick up supplemental groceries? The 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘆 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 in Medford has been thoughtfully renovated and decorated with chalk drawings by a passionate volunteer, staffed by Salvation Army Jackson County employees and volunteers who make a difference in the community every day. This pantry offers a partial shopping-style experience, so you can choose foods that work best for you and your family.

 

Thanks to strong community partnerships, this pantry is stocked with:

 Fresh produce in boxes built by The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County

 Bread donations supplied by local grocery stores through our Fresh Alliance Program, which reroutes food from grocers to our pantries for hungry families.

 

 A variety of pantry staples to help stretch your budget

 

𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗬 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗢:

*Please check our website at accesshelps.org/food-pantries for all current pantry info, as it is subject to change.

 922 N Central Ave, Medford

 Hours:

• Monday: 1:00–3:00 PM

• Thursday: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM & 1:00–3:00 PM

• Friday: 1:00–3:00 PM

Visits at this pantry are available every other week; however, you may visit another ACCESS pantry each week.

 Accessible via RVTD Bus Route 40

 

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

 

Southern Oregon PBS Still on The Air Despite Federal Funding Loss

 

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

PBS, PBS KIDS and local stations like SOPBS are still here, and we’re still serving you with programming that informs, connects, and strengthens our community.

And now, more than ever, we need the support of Viewers Like You to keep going strong.  Protect the future of SOPBS at https://donate.sopbs.org/sopbs/donate

 

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.

11/13/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

The average price for regular unleaded gasoline in Oregon is $4.505 per gallon as of November 13, 2026.

• Regular Unleaded: $4.505 per gallon
• Mid-Grade: $4.774 per gallon
• Premium: $5.054 per gallon
• Diesel: $6.540 per gallon

Prices have dropped across Oregon and the rest of the United States due to falling crude oil prices and the seasonal transition to cheaper winter-blend gasoline. You can check real-time local station prices around your area through AAA Oregon Gas Prices.

ODHS taking additional steps to improve SNAP payment accuracy, asks households to watch for notices

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is taking additional steps over the coming months to further improve the accuracy of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits so that people in Oregon receive the correct amount of food assistance.

As part of this work, ODHS will conduct several rounds of income accuracy checks on existing SNAP cases and begin requiring proof of housing and utility costs when people apply for or renew benefits. Some households may receive notices requesting additional information.

These efforts are part of the agency’s ongoing work to reduce Oregon’s SNAP payment error rate, improve benefit accuracy and help households avoid unexpected changes to their food assistance as new federal requirements take effect.  

“We want every person in Oregon who qualifies for SNAP to receive the right amount of food benefits,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership interim director. “Income can be complicated, especially with gig work, changing work hours or financial help from family members. We also know that not everyone has traditional documents to show their housing expenses. Our goal is to help people understand what information is needed and connect them with support so they can keep receiving the benefits they qualify for.”

What SNAP households should do

Some SNAP households may receive notices asking for additional information about their income, housing or utility costs.

ODHS encourages people to:

• Read notices carefully. Each notice will explain what information is needed and when it is due.
• Respond by the deadline. Providing requested information on time can help prevent delays or interruptions in benefits.
• Keep contact information updated. Make sure ODHS has your current mailing address and phone number so you receive important notices.
• Ask for help. If you have questions or trouble getting documents, contact ODHS as soon as possible. Staff can help you understand what is needed.

Income accuracy checks will continue over the coming months

ODHS will check income on more than 80,000 SNAP cases in November and December 2026, with additional rounds planned next year.

As part of these checks, ODHS will look at household income information to identify anything that could affect a household’s SNAP benefits. If more information is needed, ODHS will contact the household or send an “Information Needed” notice explaining what information is needed.

Not every household will need to take action. However, people who receive a notice should read it carefully and respond by the deadline. Households that do not respond to a request for information may lose their SNAP benefits.

If an income accuracy check identifies information that changes a household’s eligibility or benefit amount, ODHS will send a notice explaining the change.

New proof requirements for housing and utility costs begin Nov. 21

Beginning Nov. 21, 2026, people applying for or renewing SNAP benefits will need to provide proof of their housing and utility costs for those expenses to be counted when calculating benefits.

Housing and utility costs can affect how much SNAP a household receives. Reporting these expenses may help households qualify for more food benefits. For more than a decade, Oregon has generally allowed people to report these expenses without providing documentation.

People who already receive SNAP will be asked to provide proof when they renew their benefits. However, people who move, report a change in their housing or utility costs, or begin paying a new expense before their next renewal will need to provide proof of those costs, even if they don’t receive a notice requesting it.

For housing costs, people need to provide proof of how much their household pays for rent, a mortgage or other eligible housing costs. They also need to identify which utilities they pay for or help pay for, such as electricity, gas or water. They don’t need to provide the specific dollar amount they pay.

Several types of documents can be used to verify expenses, including:

• A rental agreement or mortgage bill
• A utility bill
• A rental agreement that shows how utilities are paid
• A written receipt from a landlord
• A bank statement showing a payment to a landlord, property manager or mortgage company
• A screenshot from a payment app showing your housing payment or which utility the payment was for (including Venmo, PayPal or CashApp)
• A statement from a landlord or roommate who is not part of the SNAP household.

A landlord or roommate who is not part of the SNAP household may also be able to verify expenses by phone.

ODHS staff can help people find other ways to verify expenses if they share housing costs, get help paying bills or do not have permanent housing.

People should continue to apply for SNAP, renew their benefits and complete required interviews, even if they do not have documents ready.

If ODHS does not receive proof of housing or utility costs by the deadline, the agency will determine the eligibility and benefit amounts for the household without counting those costs. This means a household could receive fewer benefits or not qualify for SNAP. However, missing proof alone will not automatically result in an application being denied or an existing case being closed.

How to get help

• Online: Apply for or manage benefits at benefits.oregon.gov.
• By phone: Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time. Help is available in multiple languages.
• In person: Find a local ODHS office at oregon.gov/odhs/pages/office-finder.aspx.
• ONE Online account or Oregon ONE Mobile app: View notices, upload documents and manage benefits.

Learn more about SNAP at oregon.gov/snap.

Oregon is leading a coalition of 16 states and Washington, D.C., opposing legislation that would let online lenders bypass state consumer protections.

Attorney General Dan Rayfield warns the bill could enable predatory lenders to charge Oregonians triple-digit interest rates by issuing loans through out-of-state banks. Oregon caps interest rates at 36 percent, but federal law allows banks to follow the rules of their home states, some of which impose no cap.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield leads a coalition of 18 attorneys general (representing 17 states and Washington, D.C.) urging the U.S. House of Representatives to vote “No” on H.R. 7866. Key Details of the Coalition’s Opposition

• The Bill (H.R. 7866): The proposed federal legislation would make it easier for online and “rent-a-bank” lenders to bypass state-level consumer protection laws and charge triple-digit interest rates by routing loans through out-of-state banks.
• Oregon’s Position: Oregon caps consumer loan interest rates at 36% (established via a 2007 law sponsored by then-Speaker Jeff Merkley) and recently enacted House Bill 4116 in 2026 to shut down out-of-state lending loopholes.
• Broader Context: The coalition argues that “rent-a-bank” schemes and attempts by online lenders (such as recent abandoned acquisition bids by Enova and OppFi) exploit federal rules to trap working families in unmanageable debt.

Read the full announcement via the Oregon Department of Justice News Release.

Oregon Wildlife Transportation Advisory Group Kicks Off First Meeting on November 18 

– The Oregon Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, will kick off the first meeting for the Oregon Wildlife Transportation Advisory Group (OWTAG) on Nov. 18 in Salem.

During the 2025 Oregon legislative session, OWTAG was established under House Bill 2978 (ORS 366.161). The law directs ODOT to establish a program to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and promote public safety where wildlife corridors identified in Oregon’s Wildlife Corridor Action Plan intersect with roads.

The legislation also directs ODOT and ODFW to form an advisory group through a joint memorandum of understanding, which took effect April 1, 2026.

OWTAG brings together state and federal agencies, counties, universities, and conservation and sporting organizations to advance priority wildlife crossing projects across Oregon. The group’s mission is to improve safety for motorists, reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions, and maintain critical habitat connectivity by expanding Oregon’s network of wildlife crossings.

Meeting Details

• Date: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2026
• Time: 8:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Location: ODFW Commission Room, 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE, Salem.
• A virtual attendance option will be available through Microsoft Teams. A link will be posted on the ODOT website before the meeting.

Meeting Purpose

• Establish membership, roles and responsibilities for OWTAG.
• Share a three-year goal framework and plan for future meetings.
• Gather member input on participation, goals and strategic direction.

Learn more about OWTAG.

Reports of highly pathogenic avian influenza in ducks and geese increasing in Willamette Valley

Many of the geese migrating through Oregon are showing signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), with many other sick and dead birds being reported to ODFW. The majority of these reports currently are from the Willamette Valley and the Cackling goose (a smaller subspecies of the Canada goose) appears to be the most heavily affected.

ODFW urges people to avoid contact with sick birds and keep pets away. Dead birds can be disposed of – it is recommended to wear disposable gloves and a mask, and double-bag the carcass before putting it in the trash.

There is no effective treatment for HPAI-infected wild and domestic birds, and the virus can spread rapidly among bird populations and potentially to other wildlife. Because of this, sick birds cannot go to a wildlife rehabilitation center and should not be captured live by the public.

ODFW’s Wildlife Health staff have been collecting and testing birds to track the outbreak. While the lab does not need additional collections of birds for HPAI testing, the public is encouraged to report groups of birds found dead without obvious signs of HPAI before death. The public can report these observations to the lab at 866-968-2600 or email wildlife.health@odfw.oregon.gov. With the high volume of reports, lab staff may not be able to call back.

Typical symptoms in wild waterfowl include lethargy, inability to fly, erratic behavior, loss of coordination, cloudy eyes, swimming in circles, and head shaking. However, some dabbling ducks may carry the virus without symptoms, spreading it through their feces to other birds and wetlands. Birds usually die within 72 hours of showing clinical signs.

Infected wild mammals may appear sick or neurologically abnormal, or be found dead after consuming infected birds, and should also be reported.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the risk to people is low. Since 2024, there have been 74 human cases of avian influenza in the United States, and three deaths. Check the CDCs avian influenza webpage for more information.

Report dead or sick domestic birds (chickens, turkeys, Guinea fowl) immediately to the Oregon Department of Agriculture by calling 503-986-4711 or 800-347-7028. Learn more on avian influenza in domestic bird and tips on protecting backyard flocks on ODAs webpage.

Check ODFW’s avian influenza web page for more information.

The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has awarded Oregon approximately $197.3 million for a second consecutive year through the Rural Health Transformation Program.

The funding builds on first-year investments that showed progress in priorities set by the Kotek administration. The Oregon Health Authority is directing the federal funds to community-led efforts to improve rural access to maternity, primary and behavioral healthcare.

Other goals include strengthening the healthcare workforce, expanding health technology, improving chronic disease prevention and management, and supporting Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes in expanding rural access and improving health outcomes.

Oregon Department of Human Services  · Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027 plans 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…

Oregon is suing the federal government over new Medicaid rules that could strip eligible residents of coverage.

The Oregon Health Plan estimates that up to one-third of recipients could lose benefits. Although full implementation is scheduled to begin in January, some states have already adopted the rules.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield says people there have lost coverage because they could not navigate the added paperwork. The lawsuit argues that Congress and the Trump administration exceeded their constitutional authority by requiring Oregon to implement the changes.

Open Enrollment begins as Oregon launches Explore Health, its new marketplace for private health insurance

People can now shop, compare plans, find savings, and enroll in 2027 health coverage at ExploreHealthOR.gov

— Open Enrollment for 2027 health coverage is now underway, and people in Oregon have a new place to shop for health insurance: Explore Health.

Explore Health, Oregon’s new state-based health insurance marketplace, officially launched Nov. 1. It replaces the federal platform HealthCare.gov as the place for people in Oregon to shop for private health coverage, find out if they can get financial help, and enroll in a health plan.

Open Enrollment for private insurance through Explore Health runs from Nov. 1, 2026, through Jan. 15, 2027.

“This is an important milestone for Oregon and for the people we serve,” said Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace,  part of Oregon Health Authority (OHA). “With Explore Health, people can now shop for coverage through a Marketplace designed and operated here in Oregon. Our goal is to make it easier for people to understand their options, find savings, and get the best coverage that works for them.”

People who buy their own health insurance can now visit ExploreHealthOR.gov to:

• Shop and compare health and dental plans available for 2027.
• Find out how much federal financial help (premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions) they may qualify for to lower the cost of coverage.
• Enroll in a plan for 2027.
• Get free help from trained insurance agents and community partners across Oregon.

People who have 2026 Marketplace coverage through HealthCare.gov are being moved to Explore Health for 2027. They do not need to start over with a new application. During Open Enrollment, they should claim their Explore Health account, sign in to review their information, compare available plans and savings, and choose the coverage that best meets their health care needs and budget.

People who are currently enrolled in Oregon Health Plan (OHP), OHP Bridge, Medicare, employer-sponsored coverage, or other health coverage generally do not need to enroll through Explore Health.

The launch of Explore Health marks Oregon’s transition from the federally facilitated HealthCare.gov system and customer service center to a state-based marketplace operated entirely by Oregon. The Oregon Legislature authorized the transition in 2023 through Senate Bill 972.

By operating its own Marketplace, Oregon has more control over the technology and services people use to enroll in coverage, better access to data to understand and respond to the needs of people across the state, and greater flexibility to adapt to changing state and federal policies. It also allows Oregon to better connect the Marketplace with state programs and resources.

Explore Health includes a new online enrollment platform, a dedicated Consumer Assistance Center, and tools for community partners and insurance agents who help people enroll.

“Launching Explore Health is an important step in Oregon’s commitment to helping people get and stay covered,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, interim director of OHA. “Bringing the Marketplace home to Oregon gives us new opportunities to better understand the needs of the people we serve, respond to changes that affect their coverage, and create a more connected experience for people seeking health care coverage.”

Free help is available — People do not have to navigate health coverage on their own. Free, local help is available from certified assisters at community partner organizations and licensed insurance agents.

Visit ExploreHealthOR.gov to get started and find enrollment help.

People can also contact the Explore Health Consumer Assistance Center at 855-268-3767 (all relay calls welcome) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time on Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturday during Open Enrollment.

Open Enrollment through Explore Health ends Jan. 15, 2027. People should enroll by Dec. 31 for coverage that begins Jan. 1, 2027.

About Explore Health — Explore Health is Oregon’s health insurance marketplace, operated by the Oregon Health Authority. Explore Health helps people who do not have health coverage through a job or a public program shop for private health insurance, find financial help and enroll in coverage. Learn more at ExploreHealthOR.gov.

Following her reelection last Tuesday, Nov. 3, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek’s priorities for the next four years include installing a universal statewide preschool program, passing new regulations on data centers and increasing the amount of time Oregon students spend in school.

Kotek shared her goals at a Friday news conference in Portland following her victory over state Sen. Christine Drazan, a Republican from Canby. Drazan late Friday afternoon officially conceded the race and said in a news release she wished Kotek well.

“I sincerely hope she recognizes that the challenges facing our state demand a different approach than what we’ve seen over the last four years,” she said in a statement.

Going into the election, Kotek was polling as one of the least popular governors in the nation, but her campaign benefitted from nationwide dissatisfaction with Republican President Donald Trump and Republicans in Washington, D.C.

Kotek said she’d be engaging with people from across the state differently in her second term to reach voters who were on the fence about her, and she indicated she’d use social media more to communicate her decisions and to have conversations. Kotek during her campaign availed herself to supportive online influencers, inviting them to several events where she eschewed invites to news outlets.

She visited every county during her first year in office, though carefully choreographed tour stops meant she met primarily with select elected leaders, nonprofit service agencies and business owners.

On Friday, Kotek said she’d also be doing more to assert her power over the Oregon Legislature when the six-month 2027 session begins at the end of January. After presiding over the House for nine years as speaker, she spent her first term as governor largely deferring to lawmakers instead of participating in negotiations, most notably on a large-scale transportation funding package lawmakers failed to pass in 2025.

“I am not going to stand back and wait for the Legislature to figure it out. I need to see progress in the first month, the second month, the third month,” she said. “People voted Democrats in because they want stuff to happen, and I need the Legislature to do that. I’m going to be in the building. I’m going to be on top of them every day, saying we got to get stuff done.”

Her legislative advocacy for the next session will start with her Dec. 1 recommended budget, which she said will include no additional funding for the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Debates over funding for the beleaguered agency with a nine-figure budget deficit consumed the bulk of the last two legislative sessions and culminated in voters resoundingly rejecting a 6-cent gas tax increase and other proposed fee increases in May.

“That’s trade-offs, because that means taking money away from highway projects and other things to pay for basic ops and maintenance. But that’s what you’ll see in my budget,” she said. “If legislators want to do something different, we’re going to have to come to the table and talk about it.”

Data centers

Kotek said she wants regulations for, and state oversight of, data center development solidified in the first 60 days of the session. She said it should include clear standards and transparency around data center energy and water use, how energy is being obtained, and what agreements data center companies have made with local communities hosting them.

Kotek’s data center advisory panel, convened earlier this year, will share with her recommendations that will inform her policy proposal for the Legislature, and the group would also inform legislation to “take on large corporations who are using artificial intelligence on a regular basis to figure out how they can make more money and charge people more.”

Universal preschool

Kotek promised universal statewide childcare by the end of her second term. She did an about-face on criticisms of Portland’s Preschool for All program at an event in October, saying she’d find a way to make sure all Oregonians had access to free preschool.

She said it’s part of her long-term education goals, which also include increasing the amount of time Oregon kids spend in school (the state has among the shortest school years in the nation) and improving attendance.

She said she’d continue to push for funding for her early literacy initiative to improve Oregon kids’ proficiency in reading, which is among the lowest in the nation.

“In terms of how to pay for things, I’ve made no commitments,” Kotek said about potential revenue proposals from progressive groups and candidates, including a new wealth tax.

State agency reform —

Kotek said she’d be implementing some of the recommendations from her Prosperity Council’s June report that advocated cutting taxes, climate programs and investing state funds in business infrastructure and development.

Among the first will be next week, when Kotek rolls out a fast-track program for statewide permitting, requiring state agencies to approve or deny applications within clear timelines. She said she’d also reorganize Oregon’s economic development agency Business Oregon into a more hands-on Department of Commerce working directly with businesses and industry in the state.

And in December, Kotek will also go to the Legislative Emergency Board to ask for $10 million for the Bend-La Pine School District and the city of Bend to help pay for services and support needed in the aftermath of the Oct. 15 school shooting at Silver Rail Elementary that left five people dead including the gunman.

Alex Baumhardt has been a national radio producer focusing on education for American Public Media since 2017. She has reported from the Arctic to the Antarctic for national and international media, and from Minnesota and Oregon for The Washington Post. This story first appeared in the Oregon Capital Chronicle. Email Ashland.news at news@ashland.news.

The Oregon Public Utility Commission has sanctioned Avista’s annual purchased gas adjustment (PGA) filing, leading to revised customer rates that will take effect on October 31, 2026.

This adjustment is designed to align customer rates with the actual wholesale costs of natural gas that Avista procures for service delivery.

The Oregon Public Utility Commission approved an 8.5% rate increase for Avista residential customers, adding roughly $5.83 per month for a typical household using 45 therms.

Key Details of the Avista Adjustment:

• Effective Date: October 31, 2026
• Service Area: Affects approximately 106,500 natural gas customers in southwest and northeast Oregon.
• Reason for Change: The annual Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) updates customer rates to reflect actual wholesale natural gas costs, true-up projections from the previous year, required accounting adjustments, and the expiration of prior-year amortizations. These costs are passed through directly to customers without a utility markup.
• Timing: The rate adjustment takes effect one day before Oregon’s winter rate hike restrictions begin under the FAIR Energy Act.

Managing Your Energy Costs — You can explore energy-saving tips and available customer rebates through the Energy Trust of Oregon. For billing questions or payment assistance options, visit the Avista Utilities Website.

Oregon and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are actively recruiting volunteers to provide free tax preparation assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

Program Overview

• Target Audience: Low- to moderate-income families, senior citizens (TCE focuses primarily on people age 60 and older), individuals with disabilities, and people with limited English proficiency.
• Impact: Volunteers help eligible residents claim federal and state tax credits (such as the Earned Income Tax Credit) that often go unclaimed due to filing costs and complexity.
• Training: No prior tax experience is required. Volunteers receive approximately 30 hours of specialized IRS tax law and software training delivered around January, with service typically running from February through April (though some sites operate year-round).
• Roles: Flexible scheduling options are available, and volunteers can serve in a variety of roles including tax preparation, greeters, and interpreters.

How to Volunteer — You can sign up or learn more by visiting the IRS Tax Volunteers Page or checking updates from the Oregon Department of Revenue Newsroom.

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.

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