Rogue Valley News, Friday 11/7 – Wildlife Images Red Tail Rosé, Wine With Purpose, Release Party Today! Medford Voters Approve Hotel Tax Hike to Fund Downtown Redevelopment & 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 – November 7, 2025

Rogue Valley Weather

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

Winter is coming! Here’s the overview of our winter outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

Medford Voters Approve Hotel Tax Hike to Fund Downtown Redevelopment

Revenue from the increase will help fund the proposed Creekside Quarter project downtown, which includes plans for a hotel and conference center. City leaders said the development would boost tourism and help revitalize the area.

Down the line, the project could also include a new minor league baseball stadium for the Eugene Emeralds, though that portion would require additional funding and approvals.

The project could be many years away. City Councilor Kevin Stine said construction may take five to 10 years.

The City Council has said it would initially raise the hotel tax to 12% and increase it to 13% only if additional funding is needed to support the project. (SOURCE)

 

The Josephine County Republican Party Office in Grants Pass Closes as Members and Officers Resign

According to the former Chair of the Josephine County Republican Party office in Grants Pass, it is closed until further notice. Dozens of members, including officers and the chair chose to resign on Tuesday.

Apparently they have shut down their website too:  https://jocogop.org

Those who resigned said they did it because of corruption and procedural violations from within the party. They gathered Tuesday morning at the Josephine County Courthouse and formally submitted their resignations. This leaves the county Republican Party in an ‘unorganized’ status.

The chair, Joseph Rice said since his election in June, a group within the party was disgruntled after their candidate was not elected. Rice said the group tried to recall him but couldn’t provide verified signatures. Amidst this, Rice cites questionable expenditures, unethical leadership from representatives at the Grants Pass City Council, the Commissioner’s office and more. “They’re so committed against the chair and they’re really not budging at all,” former vice chair Skip Welles added.

“There are very conservative Republicans that believe in ethical guidance, moral leadership and it’s just not here in the party,” Rice said. “There is a group that I would call ‘sore losers’ that are not happy with the election that have consistently tried to undermine the workings of the party.”

At this point, the Oregon Republican Party will have to step in and reorganize the party. Many of the departing members are making what they describe as a ‘lateral move’ to the United Conservatives of Josephine County, a grassroots organization.

 

ACCESS – https://www.facebook.com/ACCESSHELPS

Jackson County Declares Local State Of Emergency Amidst Funds Being Held Back Nationwide For Food Benefit Programs

This declaration takes effect immediately and broadens the actions the county is authorized to take in response to food scarcity– including the emergency procurement of goods and services.

47,000 Jackson County residents get SNAP benefits.  3,800 of them are children under 5, and 10,000 are people living with disabilities.

Jackson County Emergency Management and Health and Human Services plan to coordinate with local community organizations to identify and aid vulnerable populations.

“We have the sixth largest population that receives snap benefits in the state– the other ones are all in the metro area. So, part of this declaration also signals to the state, like hey– we have no resources to really fix this. We don’t have money, we don’t have additional food that we can grow really fast or acquire really fast– we’re really reliant on what the state’s going to be doing and working with the food banks to make sure that i can go advocate and fight for resources at salem,” ~ Jackson County Emergency Manager, Delaney Richmond.

Richmond says they’re working to give residents timely updates and potentially coordinate food drives, and that the emergency will be declared through December 31, or until the funds are flowing again.

 

 

State Parks will not accept Jackson County parking permits starting Jan. 1, 2026 

 

Albany Detectives Arrest Suspect in Medford for Albany Crimes

Southern Oregon’s most talented high school chefs are ready to bring the heat!

On Saturday, November 15, 2025, Phoenix High School will transform into a culinary battleground as 12 teams from five Southern Oregon high schools face off in the inaugural Southern Oregon High School Kitchen Klash—a sizzling, one-day competition of skill, creativity, and local flavor.

The event runs from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., culminating in an awards ceremony and community tasting event. Each team of 2–3 students will prepare a three-part plate featuring a protein, vegetable, starch, and a surprise wildcard ingredient revealed just before the clock starts ticking. Judges—including chefs from the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute and local culinary professionals—will evaluate dishes based on technique, flavor, and presentation.

Represented schools include Ashland High School, Eagle Point High School, Klamath Union High School, North Medford High School, and Phoenix High School.  This friendly competition highlights how Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are helping students turn their passion for food into professional pathways—blending Southern Oregon’s agricultural roots with modern culinary innovation. A special thank-you goes out to our many sponsors, including Ashland Food Co-op, Sherm’s, Trader Joe’s, and US Chef.

 

Halloween DUII Patrol Leads to Five Arrests
Jackson Co. Sheriff’s Office – 

 

Two Eagle Point teens died and two others were critically injured in high-speed crash early Saturday on Highway 140

Jackson County – On Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 3:50 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 140, near milepost 9, in Jackson County. Eagle Point High School Students Deceased

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Ford F350, operated by a juvenile male (17) of Eagle Point, failed to negotiate a curve, crashed through a guardrail, and rolled into an adjacent creek.

The operator of the vehicle, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was declared deceased at the scene.

A passenger of the Ford, Mitchel Frank Thorpe (18) of Eagle Point, was not wearing a seatbelt and was declared deceased at the scene.

Two additional passengers, a male juvenile (17) of Eagle Point and a female juvenile (17) of Medford, were transported to an area hospital with critical injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation. Impairment and speed are considered the primary factors of the crash. The investigation is on-going.

Rogue Valley Growers & Crafters Market – Emergency Food Access Fundraiser and SNAP updates!

 

Medford City Council Starts Process for Downtown Economic Improvement District

On Wednesday, the Medford City Council approved a resolution to start the process of creating an Economic Improvement District (EID) with the Downtown Medford Association (DMA). This is the first of three steps needed to form the district. The EID would allow property and business owners to jointly fund maintenance, development, and promotion of downtown Medford.

EIDs are used in over 1,000 places in North America, including Oregon cities like Bend, McMinnville, Albany, and Astoria. These districts usually pay for services such as sidewalk cleaning, graffiti removal, holiday decorations, and marketing. In Medford, the proposed EID would include 125 properties between Bear Creek and Oakdale Avenue, and between Sixth and Eighth streets. The annual budget would be $89,618.50, based on property size.

The Council’s resolution includes a Preliminary Economic Improvement Plan and allows city staff to begin the formation process. Next, the Council will review a final plan, notify property owners, and hold a public hearing. Property owners can give feedback. If more than 33% of owners submit written opposition, the district will not be created.

The City has given several Council Community Initiative Fund (CCIF) grants to the DMA to support the EID and downtown projects. These include $75,000 in November 2022, $125,000 in September 2024, and $150,000 in September 2025. The grants have supported planning and development for the district.

If approved, the EID would last for three years, with an option to renew for another three years. The City and DMA plan to finish the process by March 31, 2026. The proposed budget would spend 60% on beautification and development, 28% on advocacy, and 12% on administration and contingencies. Nonprofit organizations would pay reduced rates.

 

 

 

 

 

Grants Pass Homeless Camp Plan Waiting On County Approval

The city of Grants Pass says it is taking significant steps toward addressing homelessness by moving forward with a managed homeless encampment.

Images of what the sleeping units will look like. Pathways officials said the units are cheap and easy to build. (Credit: Pathways to Success)

The City Council has voted to award a homelessness grant to Pathways to Stability, moving forward with plans for a 24/7 managed operation.

Pathways to Stability envisions a program that includes neighborhood security and a dedicated hotline for local residents. The initiative promises to provide housing, recovery support, and faith-based mentorship with low barriers to entry.

“Before we provide housing we want to make sure their mental health and medical needs (are met). We want to deal with those root issues,” said a Pathway representative during the meeting.

The proposed site for this initiative is located at 1798 Southeast N St., approximately half a mile from Riverside Elementary School and across the street from a neighborhood.

An open town hall meeting will be held within the next two weeks for residents to voice questions and concerns.

 

 

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.

Rogue Valley Humane Society

Please help! We are in need of large towels to help keep our animals clean and happy. Donations would be greatly appreciated and helpful. Please drop them off during business hours, Monday-Saturday, noon – 4 pm. Thank you so much for all you do to help us do what we do!

 

Sharing for our friends at Salvation Army:

Help Fill Our Food Pantry – Your Donations Make a Difference!

Hunger is a reality for many in our community, but together, we can make a change! Our food pantry is in need of non-perishable food items to help families struggling to put meals on the table.

Most Needed Items:

Canned vegetables & fruits

Rice & pasta

Peanut butter & jelly

Cereal & oatmeal

Soup & canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans)

Drop-off Location: 922 N. Central Avenue Medford, OR 97501

Hours: 9am-3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

Every can, box, and bag of food makes a difference in someone’s life. Let’s come together to fight hunger—because no one should go to bed hungry. .

 

 

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

Seeking to promote affordability and support residents’ diverse needs, the city of Ashland has encouraged its citizens to develop accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within the city and offers guidance on getting plans approved.

The City of Ashland has streamlined the ADU application process to enhance housing options. It now offers a complete set of pre-approved ADU plans that meet local building codes for free to Ashland property owners.

To get ADU plan approval in Ashland, the Ashland Planning Division offers a free consultation. At the meeting, a City Planner will review your site and provide valuable guidance on the permit application process. The meeting is geared towards helping you understand zoning requirements, building codes, and any other considerations for ADU projects.  Find free City of Ashland ADU plans here

Rogue Valley Humane Society · Donations Always Needed to Help Community

Our Community Food Bank exists to help folks who need an extra helping hand during a difficult month to feed their pets. Our program has a limited budget and so we rely on generous members of our community to donate some of these goods to continue to help assist our community.

 

In 2023 we fed an average of 700 pets a month! This equates to approximately 70 – 40lb bags of food each month!  Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.

 

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.

Fauna Frey Vanished Without A Trace In  Josephine County

It’s been five years since the disappearance of a Lane County Woman, who was last seen in Grants Pass. Back in June of 2020, Fauna Frey disappeared. Police said the 45-year-old left her home in Dexter to drive to Grants Pass to visit her brother’s friend after her brother had recently passed away. The last place she was seen was at the Big 5 in Grants Pass. Investigators said her car was found in the Galice area months later. The circumstances of Fauna’s disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved. Fauna’s disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, including Nowhere to be Found, Here One Minute, Gone the Next, and Detective Perspective, each trying to fill the silence left by law enforcement. New listeners continue to discover her story, hoping a fresh set of eyes or a single loose memory might be the key to finding Fauna.

Have Information on Fauna Frey? Please Speak Up!

If you know anything, no matter how small, please contact:

• Josephine County Sheriff’s Office
• Tip line: (541) 359-5638
• Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com

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

 

Oregon Food Bank

Programs like SNAP, which help 1 in 8 Oregonians put food on the table, are facing deep cuts — leaving more families, children, veterans, and elders to make impossible choices between food, safety, and shelter.

We need policies that protect access to food for all our neighbors. Because no one should have to choose between staying safe and going hungry.

Food is available for those who need it and by entering your zip code at OregonFoodFinder.or -You can see each local program’s contact information, hours of operation and what kind of distribution it is.

We partner with 1,200+ free food markets, pantries and meal sites all across Oregon and Southwest Washington — and welcome anyone and everyone who needs food. OregonFoodFinder.org

Oregon Food Bank · Find free food sites near you using OregonFoodFinder.org.

 

PDX among airports hit by FAA pullback on air traffic

The reduction means 3,300 canceled flights daily across the country

The 40 airports set to see a 10% reduction in flights during the government shutdown nearly matched the list of the nation’s busiest airports, according to a preliminary list seen by States Newsroom, potentially leading to thousands of flight cancellations across the country.

A 10% reduction at the listed airports would mean 3,300 canceled flights per day, according to Airports Council International-North America, the trade group for airports.

The Federal Aviation Administration had not released an official list of airports by early Thursday afternoon, but three sources familiar with the matter provided tables listing the proposed airports.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Wednesday that the FAA would cut air traffic at 40 major airports starting Friday to help alleviate stress for air traffic controllers who have been working without pay since the federal government shut down on Oct 1.

The airports on the preliminary list are:

• Anchorage, Alaska
• Atlanta
• Baltimore
• Boston
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Chicago Midway
• Chicago O’Hare
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky
• Dallas/Forth Worth International
• Dallas Love Field
• Denver
• Detroit
• Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood, Florida
• Honolulu
• Houston George Bush Intercontinental
• Houston W.P. Hobby
• Indianapolis
• Las Vegas
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Los Angeles
• Miami
• Minneapolis/St. Paul
• Memphis, Tennessee
• Newark, New Jersey
• New York LaGuardia International
• New York John F. Kennedy International
• Orlando, Florida
• Oakland, California
• Ontario, California
• Portland, Oregon
• Philadelphia
• Phoenix
• San Diego
• San Francisco
• Salt Lake City
• Seattle/Tacoma
• Teterboro, New Jersey
• Tampa, Florida
• Washington, D.C. Reagan National and Dulles International, both in Northern Virginia

Busy Nashville, Raleigh-Durham not on list

While there is significant overlap of the list with the nation’s busiest airports, there are some exceptions.

The busiest passenger airport not included was in Nashville, Tennessee, the 28th-busiest airport in the country in 2024, according to Airports Council International-North America.

Austin, Texas; St. Louis; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina; Sacramento, California; New Orleans; Kansas City; and San Jose, California, were also among the 40 busiest airports that will not see reductions Friday.

Memphis, Anchorage and Louisville rank outside the top 40 for passenger traffic, but are the top three for cargo movement.

Oakland and Indianapolis ranked just outside the top 40 for passenger travel. Teterboro’s airport did not rank in the group’s top 50 busiest.

$327 million in daily economic output lost

A 10% reduction at the listed airports would decrease economic output at airports by about $327 million daily, according to the council.

Because the reductions are to the nation’s busiest airports that serve as hubs for the major airlines, they will also affect airports that aren’t on the list but depend on flights to and from those hubs.

The group’s president and CEO, Kevin M. Burke, said in a statement that the group and its members had adapted to quickly changing conditions during the shutdown, but that they were “reaching a breaking point.”

“The current trajectory is unsustainable,” Burke said. “With the busy holiday season on the horizon, Congress and the administration must come together now to reopen the federal government with a clean, bipartisan continuing resolution, pay federal employees, and restore operational certainty for the millions of air travelers who take to the skies every day.”

Prioritizing safety

At a press conference Wednesday, Duffy said the decision was made to keep flying safe. He urged overworked air traffic controllers not to work second jobs, but was “not naive” that many would have to in order to pay their bills.

He said the agency’s decision was made to prevent any accidents that could result from overworked controllers, while assuring the flying public that commercial air travel remained extremely safe.

President Donald Trump was less explicit during an Oval Office appearance Thursday.

“Fair question,” he said when asked by a reporter if flying remained safe. “Sean Duffy announced they’re cutting in certain areas 10%, and they want to make sure it’s 100% safe. That’s why they’re doing it.”

Dems call for shutdown end

Some Democratic lawmakers, who have blocked a bill to temporarily reopen the government at fiscal 2025 levels in an effort to force Republicans to negotiate an extension to tax credits for insurance purchased on the Affordable Care Act marketplace, renewed those calls in light of the FAA’s decision.

Sen. Tina Smith, a Minnesota Democrat, said in a statement the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport sees a daily average of 60,000 passengers on 750 flights.

She called on Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., to negotiate with her party on the expiring health insurance tax credits to reopen the government “so we don’t see the impacts like the ones at MSP.”

“The only path forward is through negotiating, so air traffic in the skies above Minnesota and the country can keep operating safely and at full capacity and our government can finally open up again,” she said.

House Transportation and Infrastructure ranking Democrat Rick Larsen of Washington state called the Duffy move “drastic and unprecedented” and requested the FAA share data that went into the decision.

He also called for an end to the shutdown to allow air traffic controllers to be paid.

“Shutting down parts of our National Airspace System is a dramatic and unprecedented step that demands more transparency,” he said. “The FAA must immediately share any safety risk assessment and related data that this decision is predicated on with Congress. If we want to resolve issues in the NAS, let us fix health care, open government and pay transportation and aviation safety workers.” (SOURCE)

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden recently joined with several other senators to request detailed information and express concern regarding contributions made to finance President Trump’s White House ballroom construction initiative. 

 

In a letter sent to the National Park Service and the Trust for the National Mall in late October 2025, the senators, led by Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), raised questions about potential influence peddling and quid-pro-quo arrangements from corporate donors with business interests before the Trump administration. Key details of the situation:

• Concerns: The senators expressed worry that the non-profit structure of the Trust for the National Mall was being used to facilitate special interest access to the White House.
• Donors: Corporations such as YouTube (Google), Amazon, Meta, and Apple have reportedly made significant contributions to the project, raising conflict-of-interest questions. YouTube, for example, settled a lawsuit with the Trump administration by agreeing to provide $22 million to the Trust.
• Request for Information: The letter requested details on the exact agreements for the construction, the source and amount of all donations, and whether these contributions were claimed as charitable deductions.
• Project Cost/Scope: The project is estimated to cost $300 million and involves the demolition of a portion of the historic East Wing to build a new 90,000 square foot facility.

The senators argue that the public deserves answers about the circumstances surrounding the project and the potential for corruption. READ PRESS RELEASE: https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-trumps-ballroom-is-a-political-fundraiser-for-big-corporations-to-earn-backroom-favors

ICE Bounty Hunter Raids in Lane County

FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL LEADERS ISSUE STATEMENT ON ICE RAID IN LANE COUNTY

Mayor Kaarin —- For Immediate Release: November 6, 2025

Yesterday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained several individuals in Lane County. In response to these events, U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, State House Speaker Julie Fahey, State Senate President Pro Tempore James Manning Jr., State Senator Floyd Prozanski, State Representatives Lisa Fragala, Nancy Nathanson, and John Lively, Lane County Commissioners Heather Buch and Laurie Trieger, Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson, Eugene City Councilor Lyndsie Leech, and Springfield City Councilor Kori Rodley issued the following statement:

“We are alarmed by the reported actions carried out by ICE yesterday in Lane County, which included the violent detention of several Oregonians, and by the ongoing reports of individuals not receiving their constitutionally protected rights to due process and legal representation. This was only the most recent in a series of aggressive raids carried out across the state in recent months. We are working together with community leaders and local law enforcement to learn more and ensure that all of our constituents are accounted for.

“Every Oregonian and every person in the United States, regardless of immigration status, is entitled to the full protections guaranteed by the Constitution. We will use all tools at our disposal as representatives of this community to ensure that those protections are upheld for the individuals detained today and for any Oregonian subjected to unjust or unlawful enforcement actions by ICE.”

A legal resident of the U.S. was detained by ICE on Wednesday, one of multiple incidents of federal agents conducting immigration operations in Lane County. According to the office of Rep. Val Hoyle (D-Ore.), a resident with a permanent green card was detained by ICE agents in Cottage Grove.Meanwhile, the City of Eugene’s Independent Police Auditor is investigating reports of Eugene Police involvement with ICE activity in incidents separate from those in Cottage Grove. EPD denies assisting federal agents in immigration enforcement.The Cottage Grove Police Department also denies involvement, saying it was informed by an agent with the Department of Homeland Security that federal agents were in the city at 5 a.m. Wednesday.

“They are kidnapping women and people who are vulnerable. This isn’t about getting criminals off the street. It’s bounty hunters and human trafficking.” SEE REEL: facebook.com/reel/2074205093390398/?s=single_unit

Advocates say ICE agents detain multiple people in Cottage Grove and Eugene

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement swept up at least 11 people in Lane County on Wednesday, according to a local immigration attorney. Other advocates reported a wave of detentions in Cottage Grove.

Officers with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement took multiple people into custody in Cottage Grove early Wednesday morning, an organizer with the Rural Organizing Project said, with additional reports of ICE activity elsewhere in the county.

Three ICE SUVs blocked a work van in an apartment parking lot on Gateway Boulevard, taking away two workers in handcuffs, according to information from a third person in the work van who was not detained, said Abelio Carrillo with the Rural Organizing Project, a statewide grassroots organization based in Cottage Grove.

Carrillo said he knew of a total of seven people detained in Cottage Grove in three different stops by ICE Wednesday.

Unconfirmed reports on social media also described ICE activity in Eugene early Wednesday, Nov. 5.

Katrina Kilgren, a Eugene immigration attorney, said in an email she believed ICE detained “at least two in Eugene” and that “at least 11 ICE detentions” took place Wednesday across Lane County.

“Most of the arrests happened in the early morning hours, and many of the people detained were going to work,” Kilgren said, with the estimate coming from sources that include the nonprofit Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition, legal observers who have been on watch at Eugene’s federal building and others in the community.

That level of immigration enforcement activity in Lane County has not previously been seen, Kilgren said. But, statewide, multiple nonprofit organizations have described a recent surge in community enforcement activity by ICE.

South Lane School District Superintendent Todd Miller said in an email the reports led to “understandable concern and anxiety” for some students and families. Miller said district officials did not know of any ICE activity near schools, but the effects were still felt.

“We saw a noticeable uptick in absences today, as families navigate this uncertainty and fear,” Miller said.

The federal Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to questions from Lookout Eugene-Springfield.

Cottage Grove detentions

In Cottage Grove, workers had pulled into an apartment at around 5:30 a.m. on their way to a job in the mountains picking salal, an evergreen shrub considered a seasonal forest product, Carrillo said he was told.

One of the workers led away told officers he had a pending application for asylum, and that he had a work permit, according to information shared with Carrillo. The asylum application process is for those seeking protection in the United States because they fear persecution in their home countries.

“He said that everything was legal,” but the ICE officers “didn’t accept anything,” Carrillo said. The other person detained “tried to escape, but he was not able to,” Carrillo said.

Carrillo said he also spoke with family members of others detained Wednesday. Cottage Grove is home to a significant population of Guatemalans who speak Mam, a Mayan indigenous language. All of the seven detained by ICE are Guatemalan, Carrillo said.

The Rural Organizing Project is a statewide organization with a main office in Cottage Grove that provides leadership training to build stronger communities and “advance democracy and defend human dignity,” according to the organization’s website.

Carrillo said he also spoke with family members of someone detained in a traffic stop.

“They detained another van, and there they took four people,” Carrillo said, adding that, based on what he was told, the stop took place at around 6 a.m. at a 76 gas station in Cottage Grove. At this stop, agents detained “someone that was in the process of asylum,” Carrillo said.

ICE also detained another person in a truck on Sixth Street in Cottage Grove, according to information from the community, Carrillo said.

Each of those detained were headed to work harvesting forest products, Carrillo said.

Video shows detention of lawful resident

Carrillo alsosaid he knows of one person briefly put in handcuffs after ICE agents pulled over the person’s minivan. The person told Carrillo she thought she had been pulled over because she was driving a minivan perhaps similar to other vehicles stopped by ICE earlier.

Earlier, before speaking with this person, Carrillo thought she might have been briefly detained because she had had been driving around “looking out, like, letting community members know that there was ICE here.”

This person, who Carrillo said has permanent resident status, was later released, he said. Permanent resident status, often referred to as having a “green card,” allows a person to live and work in the United States, though they are not U.S. citizens.

Lane County Commissioner Heather Buch said in a phone interview she received a report of a person injured after being thrown to the ground by ICE agents despite having permanent resident status.

Carrillo said the woman received treatment at a hospital after the encounter.

Community concerns:

In Eugene, social media posts — some with images — described ICE activity.

Lookout Eugene-Springfield could not corroborate specific descriptions, but the swirl of information led Eugene School District 4J to issue a statement to principals, spokesperson Kelly McIver said.

However, “there was no ICE activity on district property at Sheldon [High School] today (nor any other schools, to our knowledge),” McIver said in an email.

In Cottage Grove, Carrillo described fear affecting the wider community after the morning’s ICE activity.

“People are very scared, and they’re not coming out of their home,” Carrillo said, adding that families “are also very scared to send their kids to school.”

Miller, the South Lane School District superintendent, said the district’s focus “remains on supporting the safety, well-being, and education of every student.”

“Schools are trusted spaces where all our students are welcome and cared for, and our staff remain committed to providing support to our students in need. During times of uncertainty, we will continue to work to ensure students feel safe and supported at school,” Miller said.

Some unsupported rumors popped up. Head Start of Lane County posted on social media Wednesday afternoon that rumors were false of ICE activity at a Eugene site. Head Start sites serve as offices and also classrooms for young children.

“It’s a scary time for families and also staff,” said Charleen Strauch, the organization’s executive director. The organization serves pregnant women and families with children up to age 5.

The organization does not have a site in Cottage Grove, but Strauch said “there has been ICE activity [affecting] homes of families that we do serve.”

She said that it was her understanding that a Head Start family in Eugene and another in Cottage Grove had someone detained during Wednesday’s ICE activity.

The administration of President Donald Trump has sought to exclude from Head Start persons without a lawful immigration status, but judicial rulings have blocked this effort.

Strauch said that for families fearful of picking up their children, other arrangements can be made so long as parents inform Head Start of their wishes.

“If families have other people that can pick up their children, and they sign off on it, it’s allowable. Definitely, we support that,” Strauch said. (SOURCE)

 

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield – Guard deployment to Portland stays blocked as 9th Circuit reviews decision

11/2 — LAWSUIT UPDATE RE: NATIONAL GUARD IN PORTLAND: National Guard deployment remains paused until Friday; judge says deployment is likely unlawful. Today’s ruling is a step toward truth and accountability. Read more about what happened and what’s next.

Federal judge rules Trump Guard deployment to Portland likely unlawful

U.S. District Court Judge Karin Immergut blocks National Guard from any state from deploying to Portland at least until she issues a final opinion Friday

President Donald Trump’s attempt to deploy National Guard troops to Portland against the wishes of state and local leaders is likely unlawful, a federal judge ruled Sunday night.

Following an expedited three-day trial, U.S. District Court Judge Karin Immergut, a Trump appointee, issued a preliminary decision that finds the federal government violated Title 10 of the U.S. Code and the 10th amendment by federalizing and attempting to deploy Oregon, Texas and California National Guard troops to Portland over the objections of state and local leaders and California’s governor.

Each of these issues deals with the balance of state and federal power — particularly related to authority over policing within states — and the extent of presidential power over the U.S. military.

Immergut plans to issue a final judgement by Friday at 5 p.m. Until then, the roughly 400 currently federalized Oregon and California Guard troops sitting in waiting since early October at two military camps in Oregon will remain federalized but cannot be deployed.

“Today’s ruling is a step toward truth and accountability. From the beginning, this case has been about making sure the facts—not the President’s political whims—guide how the law is applied,” Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield said in a statement.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek in a statement called it “another affirmation of our democracy and the right to govern ourselves.”

Lawyers for the federal government said Friday that they would appeal any decision Immergut made against them to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, meaning the saga is not yet over. The 9th Circuit is also reviewing a decision by two of its members to overturn Immergut’s initial order that blocked the federal government from deploying troops.

It’s been just more than a month since President Donald Trump announced on social media that he would deploy troops to “war ravaged” Portland. Since then, he has federalized and attempted to deploy hundreds of National Guard from Oregon, California and Texas to Portland.

In her Sunday decision, Immergut found Trump’s decision was not based on a “colorable assessment of the facts” or within a “range of honest judgement.”

“Defendants’ federalization and deployment of the Oregon National Guard commandeered these State officers to enforce a federal law enforcement program at the Portland ICE Facility, in violation of the Tenth Amendment,” she wrote.

She also found that federal lawyers didn’t provide evidence to support their argument that protests grew out of control “or involved more than isolated and sporadic instances of violent conduct that resulted in no serious injuries to federal personnel,” in  the two months leading up to Trump’s federalization order.

“The violence that did occur during this time period predominately involved violence between protesters and counter- protesters, not violence against federal officers or the ICE facility,” she wrote.

A related case involving Trump’s attempted deployment of Texas National Guard troops to Illinois is sitting on the U.S. Supreme Court’s expedited schedule, or “shadow docket,” and a decision won’t be reached until at least Nov. 17, according to the court’s most recent request for briefs.

On Friday, federal lawyers would not agree to giving Immergut more time to deliberate before the expiration of one of her temporary restraining orders barring National Guard troops from any state from being deployed to Portland. That restraining order was renewed on Oct. 15, and expires on Sunday at 11:59 p.m. Typically, temporary restraining orders can only be extended once. In response, Immergut said she would reach at least a preliminary decision in the case by Sunday night.

In her ruling she wrote that she rejected the federal lawyers’ argument that she could not issue a preliminary decision before her final decision so she could have time to sit with the evidence.

“This Court heard three days of testimony and argument in a trial that ended 48 hours ago. During the trial, the parties introduced over 750 exhibits, many of which are voluminous,” she wrote. “The interest of justice requires that this Court complete a thorough review of the exhibits and trial transcripts before issuing a final decision on the merits.” (SOURCE)

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning the public to stay alert for scammers impersonating government officials, law enforcement, or financial experts.

According to the 2025 Enforcement Report from the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), scams involving digital assets, social media, and impersonation are among the top threats this year with artificial intelligence (AI) making it easier for criminals to create convincing fakes. Fraudsters can now clone voices, generate fake videos, and impersonate trusted individuals or organizations. This all results in tricking victims into sharing personal information, transferring money, or granting remote access to devices. These scams are increasingly polished, personalized, and difficult to detect until after significant losses occur.

Even more concerning are reports of in-person scams. In a recent case, investigators arrested a suspect who traveled across the country to collect hundreds of thousands of dollars from a victim who believed they were investing in cryptocurrency. The case is part of a growing “pig butchering” scheme in which criminals build trust with victims before luring them into fraudulent investments. Other reports describe so-called “gold traders” or “bankers” who contact victims online, build rapport, and later arrive in person to collect cash, gold, or gift cards under false pretenses.

“An investment scam may be lurking in your text messages, phone calls, or social media accounts,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “Always verify requests for money or personal information and never engage with suspected fraudsters. Even small interactions can have serious consequences. Some scammers retaliate by filing false police reports that bring law enforcement to victims’ doors.”

DFR offers the following tips to protect yourself from investment fraud:

• Verify before you invest: Check the registration of investment professionals and firms.
• Be skeptical of unsolicited offers: Scammers often use social media or messaging apps to lure victims.
• Don’t rush: High-pressure tactics are a red flag.

If you believe you have been the victim of a scam or want to report suspicious activity, contact one of DFR’s consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or .financialeserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.financialeserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov to file a complaint.

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.

Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony to Honor Oregon’s Veterans November 11 at the Capitol

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will honor all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces during its Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11, in view of the Oregon State Capitol Building.

This event will feature remarks by dignitaries and special guests along with ceremonial elements including a color guard, singing of the national anthem, a wreath laying and the playing of “Taps.”

The celebration will be hosted at the Oregon State Capitol State Park, located on Court Street Northeast in Salem — directly across the street of the front entrance of the Oregon State Capitol Building.

The event is open to the public, and uncovered seating will be provided for attendees. Accessible pathways and seating areas for those needing accommodations will also be available. Attendees are reminded to plan accordingly for Oregon weather.

For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/odvavet.

Statewide Veterans Day Events — In addition to the Capitol ceremony, ODVA maintains a Statewide Veterans Day Events Calendar highlighting local observances and community celebrations honoring Oregon’s veterans.

To view events near you, visit oregondva.com/event-calendar.

Organizations and communities hosting Veterans Day events are encouraged to submit their event for inclusion on the calendar by 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.

Oregon seeks $1 billion federal investment in rural healthcare

— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) submitted its application for a federal grant program that could bring up to $1 billion in new investment to strengthen healthcare in Oregon’s rural and frontier communities.

Through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, Oregon is seeking funding to expand access to care, grow the healthcare workforce, modernize technology and data systems, and invest directly in community-driven prevention and wellness initiatives. The program was established under House Resolution 1, the federal government budget reconciliation bill that was signed into law in July.

To develop the application, OHA undertook a statewide engagement process between August and October that was designed to center regional voices. The agency:

• Hosted two statewide virtual public forums attended by hundreds of residents;
• Conducted two online surveys that reached hundreds more providers, patients and community organizations;
• Held formal consultation and follow-up meetings with Oregon’s Nine Federally Recognized Tribes; and
• Reviewed extensive written input from hospitals, clinics and community partners across rural, frontier and remote regions.

Across these conversations, people in Oregon emphasized prevention, healthy communities and workforce resilience as top priorities. They called for investments in community-based care models, support for local recruitment and retention, and incentives to attract non-traditional and culturally responsive providers.

“Informed by the insight of our statewide rural partners, OHA developed a robust plan for transforming rural health in Oregon,” said OHA Director of Health Policy and Analytics Clare Pierce-Wrobel. “As a state with one-third of its residents living in rural and frontier communities, we believe our proposed initiatives meet or exceed the expectations of this funding opportunity—and expect the federal government will recognize the importance of this investment for Oregon’s rural communities when making awards later this year.”

If funded, Oregon’s initiative would roll out in two phases:

• Phase 1 (2026–2027): Immediate “catalyst” grants for shovel-ready projects that expand access, improve local infrastructure, and strengthen emergency and maternity care.
• Phase 2 (2028–2031): Larger, regional initiatives focused on long-term sustainability, shared infrastructure and cross-sector collaboration.

The proposal also includes a dedicated Tribal initiative, providing direct funding for Tribal-led strategies that strengthen sovereignty, workforce development and culturally grounded care.

Nationwide, the Rural Health Transformation Program will distribute $50 billion between 2026 and 2031. Federal law requires the U.S. government to make program award decisions by Dec. 31.

More information is available on the OHA Rural Health Transformation Program webpage, including the following documents: a project summary, a project narrative, a budget narrative, a letter to OHA partners and a letter of support from Gov. Tina Kotek.

Salsa sold at Kroger stores is under recall due to a possible listeria contamination

The peach salsa recall is part of a larger recall of peaches sold nationwide.

JFE Franchising issued a recall on Nov. 3 for the Snow Fruit Peach Salsa due to a possible listeria exposure from fruit supplier Moonlight Companies. According to the FDA notice, no illnesses or complaints have been reported. Supreme LLC, another producer of peach salsa, also issued a recall for Supreme Produce Peach Salsa.

The recalled salsa was distributed to Kroger stores in Illinois, Colorado, Georgia, Washington, Indiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oregon and Michigan.

Moonlight companies issued a recall for yellow and white peaches grown in California and distributed nationwide.

Kroger recall

• Snow Fruit Peach Salsa – 639123940636 Best by date: 11/3/2025 -11/4/2025
• Supreme Produce Peach Salsa – 85006540364 Best by date: 10/12/2025 to 10/29/2025

All recalled peach salsas were sold in plastic clam-shell containers under the SNOWFRUIT label. The product codes can be found here.

Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, elderly people, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems, according to the FDA.

Healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms including high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Pregnant women face additional risks: listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled peaches at the time of the FDA’s initial recall.

Anyone who purchased the recalled peaches or the peach salsa should not eat them. The recalled products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.Close Ad

A fatality has been reported in Oregon due to an escalating listeria outbreak linked to pre-cooked pasta meals

A total of six deaths, including one in Oregon, and 27 illnesses across 18 states have been linked to a national Listeria outbreak from pre-cooked pasta meals supplied by Nate’s Fine Foods. Recalled Products and StoresThe contaminated pasta was used as an ingredient in various ready-to-eat and frozen meals sold at major grocery chains, including Kroger, Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Albertsons, Sprouts Farmers Market, Giant Eagle, and more. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers for any recalled products and discard them immediately. Do not eat them. Surfaces that may have come into contact with the food should also be cleaned thoroughly, as Listeria can survive in cold temperatures. Specific recalled products include (but are not limited to):

• Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettuccine Alfredo.
• Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs & Marinara Sauce and Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine (sold at Walmart).
• Kroger deli bowtie and penne pasta salads.
• Albertsons store-made deli pasta salads.
• Scott & Jon’s Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls.

More information on the outbreak can be found on the CDC website or the FDA recall page.

State program offers free help, fraud prevention tips for Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare Open Enrollment for 2026 plans began Oct. 15 and remains open through Dec. 7, 2025. This is the time when people with Medicare can review their current coverage and make changes for the upcoming year. Medicare beneficiaries who would like to discuss their Medicare options can receive free, confidential help from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) including help with comparing and selecting new Medicare plans.

The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program provides free help from counselors who can help people compare plans, understand their benefits and make informed decisions about their Medicare options. Counselors can also provide information on how to avoid becoming a victim of common scams that target people during Open Enrollment.

During the Open Enrollment period, people with Medicare can:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan,
• Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare,
• Change their Medicare Advantage Plan,
• Change or enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan, and
• Review changes in costs, coverage and provider networks.

“Choosing the right Medicare plan can have a big impact on a person’s health and finances,” said Jane-ellen Weidanz, who oversees SHIBA as Deputy Director of Policy for the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD). “SHIBA certified counselors can help make sure Oregonians have the information and support they need to make informed decisions.”

SHIBA certified counselors can also help people report scams to Medicare and educate people on how to avoid Medicare scams or fraud. The ultimate goal for scammers is to get the beneficiary’s Medicare number to commit Medicare billing fraud. Common scams include claiming beneficiaries need a new card or offers of free medical equipment. These scams can happen by mail, over the phone, or by text and email.

The best way to avoid Medicare scams is to keep Medicare numbers private; anyone who receives a message or email about Medicare from a number or person they do not recognize should not respond. “The safety of Oregonians is always a top priority, which includes making sure Oregonians have trusted support during Medicare Open Enrollment,” said APD Director Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, Ph.D. “SHIBA counselors can help people recognize red flags and protect themselves from fraud and scams.”

How to get free help — Help from SHIBA is available over the phone and through virtual and in-person appointments.

To talk to a SHIBA certified counselor or to make an appointment, call SHIBA at 800-722-4134 (toll-free.)

Because high call volume during Open Enrollment may result in longer than usual wait times, Oregonians are also encouraged to access free resources on the SHIBA website at SHIBA.oregon.gov.

Online resources include:

• The 2026 Oregon Guide to Medicare Insurance Plans, which will be translated to multiple languages in the coming weeks.
• Medicare frequently asked questions,
• An agent locator tool,
• A list of free virtual and in-person Medicare presentations and
• Videos to help people understand their Medicare options.

People who need Medicare help in a language other than English, including sign language, can call 833-685-0841 or send an email to odhs.languageaccess@odhsoha.oregon.gov; after placing a request, a translator will reach out in the requestor’s preferred language to provide assistance in communicating with SHIBA.

About the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program — The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is part of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. It is a statewide network of certified counselors volunteering in their community to help all Oregonians make educated Medicare decisions. SHIBA offers free, objective, confidential and local one-on-one health insurance counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families.

This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $736,831 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

What to expect when visiting Oregon State Parks in 2026

As this year comes to a close, Oregon State Parks is looking back on 2025 and planning for the 2026 season.

This year Oregon State Parks welcomed millions of visitors, maintained nearly 1,000 miles of trails, hosted hundreds of events including mushroom hikes and star parties and finished dozens of projects from the restoration of the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse to repaving the campground at Silver Falls State Park.

State parks also updated many of its fees to reflect increasing costs and decreasing Oregon State Lottery funding. Depending on the fee, the last update was anywhere from seven to 15 years ago.

Staff are looking forward to welcoming visitors for the 2026 season with guided hikes, seasonal events and outdoor adventures. To help visitors enjoy the more than 250 state parks and know what to expect next year, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department gathered the upcoming updates in one place.

Winter 2025:

• Green Friday (Nov. 28):  Parking fees will no longer be waived at parks requiring permits on Green Friday.

Beginning January 1, 2026:

• First Day Hike (Jan. 1): Guided hikes at select parks. Parking fees will no longer be waived at parks requiring permits for First Day Hikes.
• 12-month parking permits will increase from $30 to $60 for Oregon residents and to $75 for out-of-state residents due to the out-of-state surcharge.
• 24-month parking permits will not be sold in 2026. Existing permits will be honored until they expire.
• Oregon State Parks will no longer sell Oregon Pacific Coast Passports but will honor passports purchased in 2025 until they expire.
• Oregon State Parks will no longer honor Jackson County parking permits.

Winter/Spring 2026

• OPRD is considering updates to its Division 15 Rates and Reservation Policy. The proposed changes would update the rules around cancellations, refunds, special access passes and rate ranges starting as soon as Feb. 2026. The proposed changes are designed to improve the long-term financial sustainability of the state park system and maximize the availability of campsites for visitors by encouraging early cancellation. Public comment is expected to run from December 1 to January 15, 2026. Final approval is required by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission.
• Additional parks will require a parking fee. The specific parks and implementation date is still being finalized.
• Implement fees to use dump stations at Oregon State Parks to support the cost of that service.
• State Parks Day (June 6), will continue to offer free parking for Oregon residents. Camping fees will no longer be waived on that day pending approval of the proposed Division 15 Rates and Reservation Policy updates.

“The changes are critical to sustaining state park operations and services now and for the future. We appreciate visitors’ continued support as these necessary changes are implemented,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Director (OPRD) Director Lisa Sumption.

OPRD is projecting at $14 million budget shortfall this biennium due to decreasing lottery revenue, increasing costs and a long-standing need for more sustainable funding.  OPRD does not receive general fund tax revenue for operations.

OPRD will continue to review and update fees and operations to keep providing high-quality visitor experiences and sustain parks now and in the future.

In addition to increasing fees, OPRD is also streamlining costs, planning to add more cabins and yurts to expand capacity and increase revenue and looking for new partnerships and sponsorships to help build a more sustainable funding future.

Taxpayer Advocate urges Oregonians to volunteer to help low-income families receive millions in unclaimed tax benefits

Oregon and the Internal Revenue Service are once again recruiting people to assist in the free preparation of taxes as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

“Oregon needs more VITA sites and volunteers. For low- and moderate-income families, claiming the tax credits available to them can be a starting point on the path to stronger financial security. But too often those tax credits go unclaimed,” said Codi Trudell, Oregon’s Taxpayer Advocate. “The cost and complexity of filing a tax return is a hurdle for too many people. By volunteering to help them file their returns and claim their credits, Oregonians can make a difference for people in their local community.”

The IRS estimates that one in five Oregon taxpayers eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit are not doing so. One Oregon organization estimates that the unclaimed credits have totaled nearly $100 million in recent years.

Including free tax help offered by AARP, so far in 2025, free tax assistance has been made available to nearly 38,000 taxpayers at 108 sites across the state. That’s up from 104 sites and 33,000 taxpayers at this point in 2024. Every year, however, the sites are forced to turn away people who need assistance due to a shortage of volunteers.

In addition to the need for volunteers, the IRS is also seeking organizations to sponsor VITA and TCE clinics.

The VITA and TCE programs train volunteers to help low- to moderate-income families prepare their tax returns. Across the country, thousands of people volunteer each year and prepare millions of tax returns at thousands of tax sites nationwide.

Volunteers are assigned to work with a sponsoring organization, first to receive training and then to begin volunteering at a location in the community. Training is offered both online and in the classroom. Tax sites are generally open nights and weekends, and the hours are flexible.

Additional information is available on the IRS website. Interested persons can submit an inquiry now using the VITA/TCE Volunteer and Partner Sign Up moving them one step closer to becoming a VITA or TCE tax volunteer and giving back to their community. The IRS will share information about those interested in volunteering with sponsoring organizations for follow-up contact.

Organizations with an interest in partnering with the IRS to sponsor or host a free tax preparation site in Oregon can also complete and submit the VITA/TCE Volunteer and Partner Sign Up form.

To find a VITA site near them, Oregonians can use the IRS Site Locator tool or check the DOR’s Free Tax Help map with VITA sites marked in blue.

VITA sites at 15 locations in Oregon receive funding from the Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program. Those interested in volunteering at one of these sites should contact the organizations below in December.

Beaverton, Eugene, Gresham, Portland:

CASH Oregon

503-461-7388

volunteer@cashoregon.org

Bend, Redmond:

Latino Community Association

541-382-4366

info@latinocommunityassociation.org

Bend, Corvallis, Eugene:

Oregon State University

541-737-3371

vita@oregonstate.edu

Coos Bay, Roseburg:

Moneywise Oregon

541-670-5054

dan@moneywiseoregon.org

Medford:

United Way Jackson County

541-864-5092

office@unitedwayofjacksoncounty.org

Ontario, Portland:

Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization

971-331-9811

elizabethz@irco.org

Woodburn:

Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos

503-902-0367

debbiec@centrodspc.org

 

 

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state.

The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability.

In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs.

If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

Staying Informed During a Communications Outage: Best Practices for the Public

Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it’s vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:

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

• Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
• Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. Tip: Pre-tune your radio to your local emergency broadcast station (e.g., OPB in Oregon or NOAA frequencies).

Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone

• Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
• WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if cell service is out, WEA alerts will not be delivered. This is why having backup methods like a radio is essential.

Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power

• Charge phones, power banks, laptops, and rechargeable flashlights before fire weather conditions worsen.
• Consider solar-powered chargers or car chargers as backups.
• If you are sheltering in place, a generator (solar or gas powered) is helpful.

Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance

• Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
• Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” Download your area in advance so you can navigate even if cell towers or internet access are down.
• When in doubt, call 511 or visit the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
• Don’t wait for a notification—if you feel unsafe, evacuate early.

Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info

• Phone numbers of family, neighbors, and local emergency contacts.
• Address of evacuation shelters, veterinary services (for pets/livestock), and medical facilities.
• Your own emergency plan, including meeting locations.
• Have copies of vital documents in your go-bag and take video of your property (inside and out) for insurance claims later.

If Calling 9-1-1 Over Wi-Fi or Satellite, Check Your Location Settings

If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.

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

Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage

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

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

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

 Be Your Own Info Network

• Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities.
• Post printed signs with updates for those passing by.

In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points.

Support and Restoration in Progress
To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. *** Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.

Reconnect When Service Returns

• Once communications are restored, check official websites:
  • Oregon.gov/oem
  • Your county emergency management page
  • TripCheck.com for road conditions
• Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.

 Prepare for Delays in Restoration

• Communication may come back in phases. Damage to fiber lines or cell towers can take time to repair.
• Continue using backup methods and stay alert for updates via radio or in-person notices.

 Final Tip:

In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.

 

Oregon’s Missing Persons

Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.

In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.

Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced

 

 

Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline.

It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com

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