The latest news stories of interest in the Rogue Valley and the state of Oregon from the digital home of Southern Oregon, Wynne Broadcasting’s RogueValleyMagazine.com
Monday, June 5, 2026
Rogue Valley Weather
Be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast
Rogue Valley Veterans Powwow
The 26th annual Rogue Valley Veterans Powwow sponsored by the Southern Oregon Indian Center happened over the weekend at the White City VA rehab center and clinics.
This special event honors all veterans, including Gold and Blue Star Mothers, and featured traditional dancing, Grand Entry ceremonies, drumming, and a community feast.
The Klamath Tribes Royalty representing at the Rogue Valley Veterans Powwow.
*Natasha Roberson-KAIBT Queen
*Leilonnie Wilson- Sobriety Queen
*Scarlett Schroeder- Restoration Queen
*Shirleen Norwest- Restoration JR Princess
*Azlea Weiser- Veterans Queen
Organizers of the powwow say veterans and Native Americans have always had a bond, as many Native Americans have served in the armed forces.
Nick Hall, the chairman of the Powwow said “We honor the veterans to begin with. Then we go into intertribal dancing with different drums. The native people have the highest number of soldiers of any branch of any culture.”
Native Americans have a rich, enduring legacy of military service, enlisting at roughly five times the national average per capita. This tradition is deeply rooted in ancestral warrior cultures and a profound devotion to protecting their homelands.
Organizers of the Powwow estimated 600 people attended throughout the weekend to celebrate and honor veterans.
Silver Sparky Award Presentation June 10 in Medford
Oregon State Fire Marshal
The Oregon State Fire Marshal will present the Silver Sparky Award to a Mercy Flights volunteer.
When:
Wednesday, June 10, 3:00 p.m.
Where:
Medford Fire Station 14
2208 Table Rock Rd., Medford
This year’s Silver Sparky recipient is being recognized for decades of dedicated leadership with the Mercy Flights Explorer Post 131 in Jackson County. Through sustained mentorship and a strong commitment to youth development, the awardee built one of Oregon’s most impactful emergency services career pathways. Many of the young people they guided have gone on to serve their communities as firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, nurses, law enforcement officers, and physicians.
Since 1977, the Silver Sparky Award has been one of the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s highest honors, recognizing a civilian or civilian agency for outstanding achievement in fire prevention or public safety education. osfm.publicaffairs@osfm.oregon.gov
Introducing Jacksonville Jubilee 
With fire season upon us, we all need to be prepared for whatever situation could unfold.
Oregon DOJ, Local Child Exploitation Task Force Case Leads to 176-Month Prison Sentence for 56-Year-Old Roseburg Man; Suspect Stockpiled 740,000+ Child Sexual Abuse Files, Among Largest Case in Recent Oregon History
– The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) announced last week that a Roseburg man has been sentenced to 14 years and 8 months in prison after pleading no contest to five counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree. The case was investigated by the Oregon DOJ Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET).
The case centered on one of the largest collections of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) ever uncovered in Oregon – more than 740,000 files that the defendant had made available to anyone on a public file-sharing network.
“This is 740,000 instances of a child being exploited and that exploitation being spread,” said Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield. “This man didn’t just possess this material; he made it available to anyone who wanted it. This sentence reflects the severity of those choices, and I commend the dedicated investigators at SOCET and our ICAC Task Force who did the painstaking work to bring this case to justice.”
David Arthur Kelly, 56, of Roseburg, entered his plea this week before Douglas County Circuit Court Judge Kathleen Johnson. Kelly told the judge he had “made a mistake.” Judge Johnson pointed to the sheer volume of files and told Kelly that what he did “was not a mistake, it was a series of repeated decisions to exploit children.”
Between June 2023 and August 2024, investigators with SOCET made nineteen separate connections to Kelly’s computer and downloaded numerous CSAM files through a publicly accessible peer-to-peer file sharing network. The Oregon DOJ ICAC Task Force took over the investigation in October 2024, identified Kelly as the suspect, and executed search warrants at his Roseburg home. What investigators found on his laptop told the full story – a one-terabyte hard drive packed with more than 740,000 CSAM files, every one of them set to share freely over the internet.
The case was prosecuted by Sr. AAG Elijah Michalowski of the DOJ Criminal Justice Division, appointed as Special Prosecutor by Douglas County DA Richard Wesenberg. Kelly was indicted by a Douglas County Grand Jury on November 6, 2025, on ten counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree. Under the terms of a stipulated sentence, he will serve 176 months – just under 15 years – in state prison.
Public comment period opens for Forest Management Plan for western Oregon state forest lands
– The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has filed a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for a proposed rule change to adopt a new Forest Management Plan (FMP) for western Oregon state forest lands managed by the department.
The proposed change to this rule will replace the three current FMPs (Northwest Oregon, Southwest Oregon, and Elliott) with a single FMP for these forest lands. The State Forests Division is pursuing an alternative method for compliance with the federal Endangered Species Act by applying for incidental take permits from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – Fisheries. The incidental take permits will require the division to manage Oregon state forest lands in compliance with a habitat conservation plan.
The Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan contains guiding principles, goals, and strategies that are compatible with the Western Oregon State Forests Habitat Conservation Plan. The Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan provides management direction for all Board of Forestry Lands and Common School Forest Lands managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry west of the crest of the Cascade Range.
The Board of Forestry may review, modify, or terminate a plan at any time; however, the BOF will review the plan no less than every 10 years. The current Southwest and Northwest FMPs were last revised in 2010, while the Elliott FMP was last revised in 2011. More information about State Forests Management Plans can be found here.
Public comments on the proposed rule will be accepted from June 1 to June 30 at 11:55 p.m. A virtual rulemaking hearing will be held on June 25 at 3 p.m. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking contains the link to register to attend or provide comment at the hearing. The notice also includes important details including but not limited to the proposed rule text and instructions for submitting public comments and participating in the hearings.
More information on this rulemaking effort and ongoing updates can be found on the Rulemaking activity page of the ODF website.
Victim Identified, Suspect Arrested in Fatal Assault
Medford Police Dept.
On Tuesday, June 2, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Medford Police Department received reports from citizens in the area of West Jackson Street and Welch Street who heard what they believed to be a serious assault occurring near the railroad tracks.
As officers responded, witnesses located an adult female suffering from severe head injuries. Officers and emergency medical personnel immediately began life-saving efforts; however, those efforts were unsuccessful, and the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Based on witness statements and video evidence gathered during the investigation, officers identified and located the suspect, 19-year-old Darius McCree-Santangelo, walking near West McAndrews Road and Summit Avenue approximately 20 minutes after the initial call for service. Local businesses were pivotal in providing video footage to investigators linking the suspect to this crime.
The victim has been identified as 43-year-old Nicole Marie Dominguez. Investigators believe the suspect and victim were acquainted. No additional information regarding their relationship or the circumstances surrounding the incident will be released at this time.
Darius McCree-Santangelo was lodged at the Jackson County Jail on the charge of Murder in the Second Degree. Detectives have been working closely with prosecutors from the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office, which will be responsible for prosecuting the case.
The victim’s next of kin has been notified. The Medford Police Department extends its sincere condolences to Ms. Dominguez’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
BLM Seeks Input on Forest Management Project in Jackson County
MEDFORD, OR– The Bureau of Land Management is asking the public for input on a proposed forest management project to increase wildfire protection in the Applegate and Lake Creek areas in Jackson County. The Douglas fir Mortality Complex Environmental Assessment proposes salvage timber sales to remove dead and dying trees, as well as thinning potential fire fuels.
“This project would make the forest—and the timber it could produce in the future—more resilient to fire, drought, and insects,” said Lauren Brown, Ashland Field Manager.
The BLM remains committed to supplying a secure, resilient domestic timber supply. In western Oregon, this commitment is rooted in the Oregon and California Revested Lands Sustained Yield Management Act of 1937. Selling the salvaged timber provides revenue to the 18 O&C counties, and helps offset the cost of the fire mitigation work.
Today, the BLM started a 30-day public comment period to receive public input on the environmental assessment. To stay up to date on the project and to leave a comment, the public should visit the BLM NEPA Register at: https://eplanning.blm.gov/Project-Home/?id=468d6bf4-a7f2-f011-8407-001dd80bcf93
-BLM- The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people.
𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗡𝗲𝗴𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲
On Thursday afternoon, the Medford Police Department, in coordination with Jackson County Mental Health and the Mobile Crisis Team, responded to a residence in the 1800 block of Roxy Ann Place to conduct a welfare check.
Upon arrival, officers were unable to make contact with the resident and observed a deceased cat in plain view within the residence. Based on those observations and information gathered during the initial investigation, a search warrant was obtained. Officers later located and contacted the resident prior to the execution of the warrant, which was subsequently served at the property.
As the investigation developed, the Medford Police Livability Team, Code Enforcement, and Jackson County Animal Control responded to assist.
During the search, investigators located multiple live and deceased cats on the property.
Wendy Diamond, 65, is facing seven counts of Animal Neglect in the First Degree, a felony. Additional charges may be pending. The Jackson County District Attorney’s Office has been consulted as part of the investigation.
Jackson County Animal Control is taking custody of the live cats located on the property and will oversee their care and evaluation. The investigation remains ongoing.
Deadline for Temporary Rent and Utility Assistance Through ReOregon is June 30
The deadline for Intermediate Housing Assistance (IHA) for survivors of the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds is coming soon. Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) administers IHA, which provides temporary rent and utility assistance for renters who lived in the disaster-affected counties of Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, or Marion at the time of the wildfires and have a verified loss.
Survivors have until June 30 to apply for the program, which has expanded eligibility, including higher incomes, so more households can get help. Assistance may last for up to 24 months or until the program’s funding is fully spent.
OHCS encourages any interested folks to reach out to a local community action agency to find out more and get started on an application.
“IHA provides a vital need for renters who are also wildfire survivors to help keep them stably housed as they figure out their permanent housing solution,” said Shannon Marheine, director of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at OHCS. “We encourage anyone who is eligible and hasn’t yet applied to do so as soon as possible. If you know someone might benefit from this program, please spread the word.”
IHA is part of a suite of wildfire recovery programs called ReOregon intended for survivors of the 2020 Labor Day Disasters and is funded by a $422 million Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.
So far, OHCS and its partners have successfully served 401 households with the IHA program.
To learn more about IHA and other ReOregon programs, visit OHCS’ website.
About Oregon Housing and Community Services – OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.
CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT AT THE CAR SEAT CHECK CLINIC!
Residents in Medford will soon receive energy generated by Oregon’s first floating solar panels through the state’s Community Solar Program.
More than 1,700 panels on floating platforms atop a Medford Irrigation District reservoir will generate power intended to cut costs for the district, the city and about 60 homes in Jackson County. Kyle Petrocine, program manager at the Energy Trust of Oregon, one of the administrators of Oregon’s Community Solar Program, said people can subscribe online to community solar projects across the state.
Customers pay for a subscription and receive credits on their utility bills, lowering overall costs. Petrocine said low-income subscribers can get discounted subscription rates and save up to 40% on their power bills. He said several similar projects are being considered in the Rogue Valley and other parts of Oregon.
Medford Irrigation District Unique Solar Project
A new 800 kW Community Solar Project is coming to Central Point, Oregon, in partnership with BEF and the Medford Irrigation District.
This unique project is one of Oregon’s first floating solar installations, featuring 1,776 solar panels on a reservoir in the Medford Irrigation District. By covering about 1.8 acres of water, the project will:
- Generate local, renewable energy for the community
- Improve water quality by shading the reservoir and reducing algae growth
- Reduce water loss from evaporation
60 residential subscriptions will be available for households in the Medford area, giving local families the chance to save on energy costs while supporting innovation in clean energy.
The project is expected to begin operation in Summer 2026.
Be part of this exciting milestone for Oregon — reserve your spot today and power your home with clean, local solar energy.
Medford Irrigation District Community Solar Subscription Example:
- Subscription Size: 5 kW
- Expected 1st year subscription generation: 7,545 kWh
- Expected Bill Credit: $782
- Expected Subscription Fee: $717
Expected First-year Net Savings: $65
Who’s Eligible?
To be eligible for the MID Community Solar Project Subscription, you must:
- Live within the Medford Irrigation District territory.
- Be a customer of Pacific Power.
Low-Income Subscribers
10% of the project’s energy is reserved for low-income households = low-income households can subscribe!
If you qualify, you’ll get special benefits and protections as a subscriber. You’ll have:
- no upfront costs
- no termination fees
- discounts on your subscription, and
- guaranteed savings on your energy bill.
Community solar is a large solar system that members of the community can join to share the benefits of the solar energy that’s generated. This is great for people who don’t want to install their own rooftop solar or who rent or live in apartments or condominiums. The energy generated by the Medford Irrigation District goes to the utility energy grid, and the value of that energy is shared by all subscribers in the form of credits on your utility bill. So you can feel good about supporting clean, renewable energy without paying the upfront costs of your own rooftop solar panels.
𝙉𝙊𝙒 𝙃𝙄𝙍𝙄𝙉𝙂: Customer Service Representative (CSR) for Rural Metro Fire – Josephine County in Grants Pass
𝗪𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟬 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀? 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 – 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟯𝟬𝘁𝗵!!
If you are recovering from the 2020 fires and need housing that supports you or your multigenerational family, help may be available through ReOregon housing recovery programs. ACCESS is an official intake center for Oregon Housing & Community Services (OHCS) fire recovery programs. Our team can help determine which option may work best for you. Programs include:
𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲, 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺.
Contact the ACCESS Center for Community Resilience to check your eligibility:
ccr@accesshelps.orgCity of Roseburg Government — Wondering where to get the facts about City projects, plans, decisions, events and upcoming meetings?
𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆: 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 
New Blog: PIER Grant Round 2 Now Open!
Read the full blog here:
Eligibility details Grant uses (up to $15,000) Important deadlines What support is available to help you apply
Rogue Valley Humane Society
Our Community Food Bank exists to help folks who need an extra helping hand during a difficult month to feed their pets. Our program has a limited budget and so we rely on generous members of our community to donate some of these goods to continue to help assist our community. In 2023 we fed an average of 700 pets a month!
This equates to approximately 70 – 40lb bags of food each month! Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.
CSO Case 24-4928 PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives and Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel continue to search for a woman missing out of Prospect, Ore. since September 2024.
Deenah Padgett, 69, was reported missing on Sunday, September 8, 2024. She was last seen camping in the Prospect area on September 4, 2024.
She is described as a white woman with brownish-red, partially gray hair, standing 4’8” tall and weighing 90-100 lbs. JCSO detectives and SAR personnel have searched the area extensively and are looking for the public’s help. If you see Deenah or know her whereabouts, immediately call ECSO Dispatch at (541) 776-7206 and reference case 24-4928.
If you have any information that might help the investigation, call Detective Friend at (541) 864-8774.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is asking for help identifying the owner a motorhome. It could be associated with a missing person from the Prospect area. JCSO says 68-year-old Deenah Padgett has been missing since August 30 from Prospect, described as a white woman, 4’ 8” tall, weighing approximately 95 pounds with brownish red/greying hair. JCSO issued an advisory this weekend asking anyone with information about the owner of the pictured motor home or Padgett’s whereabouts to call Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatch non-emergency phone number at 541-776-7206.
David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active
The Ashland Police Department’s investigation into the murder of David Grubbs on November 19, 2011 remains open and active. Recently two new detectives have been assigned to look into new leads that have come in.
This case remains important to David’s family, the community, and the Ashland Police Department. As detectives continue to pursue these new leads, anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to the Ashland Police Department at 541-488-2211. The reward for information leading to an arrest on this case remains at over $21,000.
Taking Another Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey
Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends. But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle
We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate. Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.”
https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162
We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a huge reward for information that brings Fauna home. Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing. Tipline- 541-359-5638 Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132
Fauna Frey Vanished Without A Trace In Josephine County
It’s been more than 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
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.
Summer EBT is back to help feed Oregon children during summer break
The Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits (Summer EBT) program is returning in 2026 to help families buy groceries for school-aged children during summer break when they don’t have easy access to healthy meals.
Eligible families can receive a one-time payment of $120 for each child on an Oregon EBT card to buy food. Unused benefits can expire 122 days after they are issued.
Families will get benefits automatically on their Oregon EBT card if they have children between the ages of 6-18 and received one of the following at any time during the 2025-26 school year:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance
- Medicaid, if household income is below 185 percent of the federal poverty level
- Foster care services
Families also may automatically receive benefits if they have children who:
- Were determined by their school to have a status as migrant, houseless or runaway.
- Took part in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
- Attended a Head Start program that was part of the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program.
Families may need to apply if:
- Their household meets income requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.
- Their child attends a school that was part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).
Important Summer EBT dates:
- June 1, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center opens. Families can call 833-673-7328 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- June 4, 2026 – Benefits are expected to begin issuing to families who are automatically eligible.
- June 5, 2026 – The online application opens and applications begin processing.
- Sept. 1, 2026 – Application deadline.
- Sept. 25, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center closes.
The Summer EBT program is administered by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Department of Education (ODE).
Children cannot receive 2026 Summer EBT benefits in multiple states. The program invites families to apply if they have children living in Oregon during the 2025-26 school year.
Families can learn more about Summer EBT, find application information and get updates by visiting the website at sebt.oregon.gov.
6/8/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today
OSP invites Oregon youth to help name new Fish & Wildlife K-9
– Paws up for OSP’s newest K-9 recruit. The one-year-old red Labrador Retriever is currently training to join K-9 Scout and K-9 Drake to help protect Oregon’s natural resources as part of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation K-9 program. While we’ll always call him “Good Dog,” he’s ready for a new, official name.
OSP is inviting Oregon youth ages 9-17 to help name the new dog. Because the K-9 and its trooper partner are assigned to the Fish and Wildlife Division, suggested names should be wildlife, fish, or outdoors-related.
Contest Rules:
- Entries may be submitted now through June 14, 2026
- Entries must be submitted using the OSP online entry form
- The contest is open to Oregon youth ages 9-17
- One entry per youth
- Suggested names must be wildlife, fish, or outdoors-related
- Finalists will be selected from the submitted entries for statewide voting
- The youth with the winning entry will get a chance to meet the K-9 and receive other recognition items from OSP
Think you’ve got the perfect name? Send in your suggestion and help welcome OSP’s newest K-9 trooper to the team.
OSP’s conservation K-9 program began in 2018 with K-9 Buck, who recently retired from active service. Fish and Wildlife K-9s receive specialized training in wildlife detection, human tracking, and area searches to support investigations into the illegal take of birds, wildlife, and fish around the state. Dogs are trained to detect deer, elk, bear, turkey, waterfowl, salmon, and sturgeon, as well as firearms, shell casings, and other items containing gunpowder residue. Conservation K-9 teams have been instrumental during investigations into poaching, missing persons, and other criminal activity.
The new conservation K-9 team will be stationed at OSP’s La Grande patrol office, joining teams currently based in Bend and Springfield.
The Conservation K-9 program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police and the Oregon Wildlife Foundation. The Oregon Wildlife Foundation maintains the Wildlife Conservation K-9 Fund to help cover expenses associated with the canine members of the Conservation K-9 teams. Donations to the fund support the costs of veterinary care, training equipment, and other essential supplies.
State, Federal and Local Leaders Have Concluded a Senior Leadership Seminar on Cascadia Preparedness
Leadership from the U.S. Navy, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Governor’s Office, the Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (OREM), and the Port of Portland attended the 2026 Defense Support to Civil Authorities (DSCA) Senior Leadership Seminar yesterday, June 4, held at Portland International Airport (PDX).
The seminar brought together senior leaders and planners from local, state, federal, tribal, and military agencies to strengthen coordination and preparedness for a Cascadia Subduction Zone event—one of the Pacific Northwest’s most significant natural disaster risks.
Hosted by the Port of Portland with virtual participation available, the half‑day program featured senior‑level discussions, scenario‑based planning, and insights into federal and military support capabilities during catastrophic incidents. An optional afternoon networking session further supported collaboration across jurisdictions.
“Preparedness is at the core of our airport operations, including a new PDX that was built to withstand the Big One,” said Port of Portland Chief Aviation Officer Dan Pippenger. “Workshops like this boost our resilience through strengthened collaboration and communication. This is essential for the region’s preparedness partners to respond quickly as a team, save lives, and keep people and critical supplies flowing when disaster strikes.”
Participants engaged in focused conversations on current response plans, interagency coordination challenges, and opportunities to enhance alignment across emergency management systems. The seminar reinforced the critical role that DSCA support plays in large‑scale disaster response and emphasized the importance of integrated planning before a crisis occurs.
“Preparing for a Cascadia event requires strong partnerships and a shared understanding of how we will work together in the most challenging conditions,” said Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “This seminar brought together the leadership necessary to ensure we are coordinated, informed and ready to respond.”
Leaders from the Navy, ODHS OREM, and the Port of Portland echoed the importance of cross‑agency collaboration, emphasizing that unified planning is essential to protecting communities and accelerating recovery following a major seismic event.
ODHS OREM director Ed Flick added that “sea-based response is the standard in the IndoPacific region. As a pacific state, the sea services will play a key role in response to a CSZ earthquake and tsunami response in Oregon.”
The DSCA Senior Leadership Seminar series, launched in 2010, continues to provide a vital platform for enhancing regional readiness in high‑risk areas such as the Pacific Northwest. Insights from this year’s session will inform ongoing planning efforts and strengthen the partnerships that support Oregon’s resilience.
Investing in people is clear path forward for Oregon Gov. Kotek’s ‘Prosperity Council’
Rather than recycle the big business lobby’s permanent agenda to beef up its bottom line, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek’s Prosperity Council recommendations should follow the evidence. Prosperity comes from public investments in people and their capacities, especially in education from early childhood through apprenticeships and higher education.
A highly skilled, adaptable labor force attracts and grows businesses, supports innovation and raises incomes for everyone. Investing in people is much more effective than even the best targeted business subsidies or tax breaks – and most aren’t well targeted. Although Oregon faces challenges beyond our control, we have a lot going for us. Now we need to pull together to invest in ourselves and our children.
Prosperity — economic development — is best measured by income per person and child poverty. More income per person, especially in the middle and bottom of the income distribution, means higher standards of living, better support for local businesses, more tax revenue and less need for social services. Low child poverty is the strongest predictor of low future poverty rates.
States with the most educated populations posted the highest per person income growth over the last 50 years. Businesses look for a skilled, productive labor force. Asked about a possible California tax on billionaires, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said ‘“We work in Silicon Valley because that’s where the talent pool is”… The company’s ability to hire qualified employees is typically the biggest factor in deciding where the company establishes a presence.’
Our educational system needs strengthening, from early childhood through higher education. Oregon’s serious underfunding of schools and local governments stems from property tax limits in the 90s. Oregon ranks 40th in the World Population Review’s assessment of public school quality. We’re 41st in U.S. News and World Report’s ranking. That perception matters, for families and businesses.
The biggest bang for the education buck is early childhood. Economic returns to state-level universal Pre-K are three times as high as the best targeted business subsidies, according to economic development expert Timothy Bartik. Parents’ incomes rise from working more or gaining more education or training. Teachers paid living wages are more stable, building expertise and raising preschool quality while spending more locally. Kids do better in school and earn more as adults.
By contrast, Bartik shows that at least three-quarters of firms given financial incentives by state or local governments would have located where they did without them. Study after study by economists shows that state and local taxes have little impact on business location.
Nor do affluent households move for lower taxes. The number of high-income households in Multnomah County has grown steadily over the past decade, especially at the top. Census data show three times as many households with incomes over $500,000 in 2024 as in 2019!
Researcher Cristobal Young analyzed decades of IRS data on everyone with incomes of $1 million or more. Only in the early COVID years did millionaires move to lower tax areas. In-person business networks weren’t functioning, and they could work from home in places with low infection rates. Starting in 2023, they began to move back, closer to their colleagues and contacts.
We should focus on attracting young professionals, the high-income households of the future. They’re far more mobile than older and wealthier households, open to attractive communities in which to settle. As well as good job opportunities, they want strong schools, affordable housing, outdoor recreation and cultural offerings. Portland and Oregon have a lot to offer, and can work to improve our schools and housing affordability
We’re struggling with forces beyond our control. Federal headwinds include extreme, erratic tariff policies, big cuts in agencies and scientific grants, harsh immigration tactics, and war on Iran. Nike and Intel both made strategic stumbles. COVID sped up the switch from downtown to working and shopping from home — and studying from home, in the case of Portland State.
On the plus side, we have gorgeous geography and fantastic outdoor recreation. Our food, music and cultural scenes have rapidly become more interesting, varied and sophisticated. Our economy is more broadly based, with solid roots in growing sectors.
Where we lag is in public investment, especially in education from early childhood through apprenticeships and universities, but also in the full range of housing needs and health care. The federal government is failing us as an economic partner. We’ll have to depend on ourselves for the foreseeable future. Fortunately, we have abundant local resources that most states lack.
OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING in Klamath Falls
An armed suspect is dead and a child is in the hospital following a shooting involving Klamath Falls Police. State Police report officers responded Friday morning to a domestic disturbance and welfare check call when an altercation turned deadly. An armed man was killed at the scene, and a minor child was injured and hospitalized in stable condition. Investigation is ongoing.
The Klamath County Major Crimes Team, which includes the Oregon State Police and other local agencies, has been activated to investigate the matter, with the Oregon State Police serving as the lead agency. In line with standard procedures, the officers involved will be placed on paid administrative leave during the investigation. Further information will be released by the Klamath County District Attorney’s Office as it becomes available.
New law protects consumers from predatory high-interest loans
A new law going into effect June 5, House Bill (HB) 4116 (2026), closes a loophole that allowed internet lenders to charge interest rates in excess of Oregon’s limit of 36 percent for consumer finance loans.
Consumer finance loans are unsecured small dollar loans with a term of 60 days or more. Since 2007, consumer finance loans in Oregon have been limited to a 36 percent interest rate. This limit is intended to protect Oregonians from predatory lending practices.
However, in recent years, some lenders have sought to take advantage of a provision in federal law called the Depository Institutions Deregulation and Monetary Control Act of 1980 (DIDMCA) enabling state-chartered banks from other states to export their home state’s interest rate to Oregon.
By partnering with a bank chartered in a state that allows higher interest rates, some lenders have charged Oregonians interest in some cases in excess of 100 percent APR. Since 2020, DFR found evidence of more than 31,000 loans totaling at least $61 million with interest rates that exceed Oregon’s cap.
In a recent enforcement action, DFR was successful in securing a settlement that required a lender to pay restitution of $900,000 for charging interest that exceeded the cap. However, the option to export other states’ interest rates still left Oregon consumers vulnerable to these practices.
DIDMCA allows states to opt out of permitting banks chartered in other states from importing another state’s interest rate. HB 4116, signed into law by Gov. Kotek on April 7, exercises Oregon’s opt-out right under federal law. The law also clarifies the applicability of Oregon law to internet-based lending and makes other technical updates. Now, lenders can no longer take advantage of DIDMCA interest rate exportation to evade Oregon’s interest rate caps.
Oregon consumers should know that if they are charged interest in excess of 36 percent for a consumer finance loan, it is likely in violation of the law. We would strongly encourage any consumers to contact the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation for information, assistance, and, if needed, regulatory action to ensure compliance. Our consumer advocates can be reached at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.
Comments sought on draft State Plan on Aging by June 12
– Oregon’s draft 2026-2030 State Plan on Aging — which shapes how older adults, people with disabilities, their families and other unpaid care providers are served — is available for review. The public is asked to provide comments on the plan to the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) by 5 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2026. To review the draft State Plan and a summary of the plan, visit the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) community engagement webpage.
The plan is developed by APD in consultation with a variety of ODHS councils and commissions, Area Agencies on Aging, Tribal Elders programs and community-based organizations. Community member input was also gathered through a community input session and a community needs survey. The plan is required under the Older Americans Act of 1965. It is a contract with the Administration on Aging, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living and enables Oregon to receive funds under the Older Americans Act.
Oregon’s draft State Plan on Aging for 2026-2030 has four focus areas:
- Older Americans Act (OAA) Core Programs, which include supportive services, nutrition, disease prevention/health promotion and caregiver programs as well as the OAA’s programs for Tribal members and communities including supporting elder rights.
- Populations with the greatest economic need and greatest social needs
- Access to home and community-based services; and
- Caregiving.
Public input will be used as APD finalizes its proposed State Plan on Aging, which it submits to the federal Administration for Community Living. A public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. Information about the public hearing is posted to the APD community engagement webpage.
To submit comments on the draft State Plan on Aging:
- Email comments to SUA.email@odhsoha.oregon.gov
- Mail comments to:
ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities
Attn: Debbie McCuin
500 Summer St., N.E., E-12
Salem, OR 97301
Learn more about the State Plan on Aging
- Oregon’s current State Plan on Aging
- https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/about-acl/2020-04/Older%20Americans%20Act%20Of%201965%20as%20amended%20by%20Public%20Law%20116-131%20on%203-25-2020.pdf. Click or tap if you trust this link.”>Older Americans Act federal statute
- Federal https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/AoA_Form_Grants_State_Plan_Guidance_508_final.pdf. Click or tap if you trust this link.”>Guidance for Developing State Plans on Aging
- https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2024-01913.pdf. Click or tap if you trust this link.”>Older Americans Act Final Rule: 2024 final rule to update regulations implementing its Older Americans Act (OAA) programs for States, area agencies on aging and Tribal organizations.
Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation Partners with Applied Underwriters Invitational for 2026 Golf Classic
Aurora, OR — Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) is proud to announce its partnership with the Applied Underwriters Invitational, recognized as The #1 Charity Event in Golf, for the 2026 OLSHF Golf Classic on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Langdon Farms Golf Club.
Through this partnership, OLSHF joins a nationwide network of charitable organizations supported by Applied Underwriters and the Applied Underwriters Invitational in strengthening communities and championing those in need. Each year, more than 11,000 golfers participate in approximately 75 tournaments benefitting over 65 national and local charities across the United States. Since its inception, the Invitational has hosted more than 4,400 tournaments and generated over $276 million in net proceeds for benefiting charities nationwide.
“We are honored to partner with the Applied Underwriters Invitational and Applied Underwriters to expand the impact of our Golf Classic,” said Kate Mayne, Marketing & Events Manager for Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation. “This event brings together community leaders, businesses, golfers, and supporters who believe every Oregonian deserves access to vital sight and hearing services.”
The 2026 OLSHF Golf Classic will feature a full day of golf, community engagement, contests, raffle opportunities, and celebration, all benefiting OLSHF programs that provide critical sight and hearing assistance throughout Oregon.
Event Details
Langdon Farms Golf Club
Monday, June 29, 2026
⏰ Registration + Chipping & Putting Contest Open: 11:00 AM
⛳ Shotgun Start: 1:30 PM
Participants will enjoy a hot dog buffet lunch prior to play, followed by the Farm Fiesta Awards Dinner and raffle ticket drawing after the tournament.
Golfers, sponsors, and community supporters are invited to participate and help make a difference for Oregonians in need of sight and hearing services.
?️ Raffle Tickets: olshf.org/raffle
? Event Information & Registration: olshf.org/golf
? Questions or Volunteer Opportunities: marketing@olshf.org
About Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation — Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation has served Oregon communities since 1959 by providing essential sight and hearing programs, assistance, and outreach throughout the state. Supported by Lions clubs, partners, and donors, OLSHF works to ensure Oregonians have access to critical sight and hearing care regardless of financial circumstances.
About Applied Underwriters Invitational — The Applied Underwriters Invitational, supported by title sponsor Applied Underwriters, is recognized as The #1 Charity Event in Golf. The Invitational partners with charitable organizations nationwide to host impactful tournaments that strengthen communities and support meaningful causes. Learn more at auw.com.
BLM celebrates Freedom 250 with public events across Oregon
The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence through three public events across Oregon in 2026. The events foster a deeper appreciation of our nation’s past, the beauty and value of public lands, and the work it takes to sustain the health and productivity of these lands for the use and enjoyment of generations to come.
The events are part of the national Freedom 250 commemoration and also recognize the BLM’s 80th anniversary of public land stewardship.
Featured Freedom 250 Events:
- Oregon Trail Days – Baker City, Ore.
When: Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT
Where: Geiser-Pollman Park, Baker City, Ore.
The signature Freedom 250 event for BLM Oregon/Washington, Oregon Trail Days transforms Geiser-Pollman Park into an immersive Oregon Trail experience featuring wagon rides, storytelling, live demonstrations, music, crafts, and games.
The free, family-friendly celebration highlights the role public lands play in preserving the landscapes and stories tied to America’s westward expansion. Additional programming will also take place at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center throughout the weekend.
- Wood River Wetland Volunteer Day – Near Klamath Falls, Ore.
When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PT
Where: Wood River Wetland, approximately 30 miles north of Klamath Falls, Ore.
This Freedom 250 volunteer event invites the community to assist with invasive weed removal and restoration work on public lands.
The event highlights the continued role Americans play in caring for public lands through volunteerism and stewardship.
- Victorian Holiday Celebration – Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT
Where: Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, near Newport, Ore.
This coastal Freedom 250 event connects visitors to Oregon’s maritime history through a Victorian-themed holiday celebration at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.
Activities may include caroling, historical parlor games, ornament crafts, interpretive storytelling, and live music.
As a dedicated custodian of America’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, the Bureau of Land Management in Oregon and Washington proudly celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence with the nation.
From iconic landmarks like Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area to the historic Oregon Trail, BLM-administered public lands represent the spirit of the nation’s foundational principles. These events honor stories of exploration, resilience, stewardship, and public service woven throughout America’s history.
Weekend Train Rides Return to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for the 2026 Season
PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Rail Heritage Center is excited to announce the return of its popular weekend train rides. Running every Saturday and Sunday through October 11, 2026, these family-friendly excursions offer passengers a memorable rail adventure through the heart of Portland aboard historic diesel locomotive BNSF 3613.
Celebrate Father’s Day Weekend with a Special Steam Train Ride at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Historic Polson #2 Steam Locomotive Returns for a Memorable Family Experience
PORTLAND, Ore. — Families, train enthusiasts, and dads of all ages are invited to celebrate Father’s Day weekend with a one-of-a-kind steam train experience at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21.
Guests will enjoy a nostalgic excursion powered by the legendary Polson #2 steam locomotive, offering the sights, sounds, and excitement of classic rail travel. Riders can feel the rumble of the locomotive, hear the iconic whistle, and experience the magic of traveling behind a living piece of railroad history.
This Father’s Day themed event includes festive décor and an onboard bar featuring snacks and refreshments available for purchase, making it the perfect outing for families looking to create lasting memories together.
Whether celebrating Dad, introducing children to historic trains, or simply enjoying a unique Portland experience, these special rides offer something for everyone.
Event Details:
- When: Saturday, June 20 & Sunday, June 21
- Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
- Train Departure Times: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm
- Tickets Prices:
- Adults (14+) – $24
- Seniors (65+) – $21.50
- Military (with ID) – $21.50
- Children (3-13) – $17
- Infants (Under 3) – Free
- Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children) – $74
- Tickets & Registration: https://orhf.org/
Train tickets include admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center—making it the perfect outing for train lovers, families, and visitors of all ages.
Perfect for families, visitors, and train enthusiasts of all ages, the scenic rides provide a unique opportunity to experience Portland from the rails. Guests can choose between riding in an open-air car or relaxing in a vintage air-conditioned coach while enjoying views of Portland’s skyline, the Willamette River, local wildlife, and the timeless charm of Oaks Park.
Each train ticket also includes admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, where visitors can explore Portland’s rich railroad history and get an up-close look at historic locomotives and rail equipment.
Event Details:
- When: Saturdays & Sundays, May 23 – October 11, 2026
- Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
- Train Departure Times: 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm
- Tickets Prices:
- Adults (14+) – $17
- Seniors (65+) – $15
- Military (with ID) – $15
- Children (3-13) – $12
- Infants (Under 3) – Free
- Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children) – $50
- Tickets & Registration: https://orhf.org/
About Oregon Rail Heritage Center:
The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
BLM Brings Oregon Folklife Programming to National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
BAKER CITY, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to explore Oregon’s living cultural traditions through a new interpretive folklife series at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center beginning this week.
The series aligns with America’s 250th anniversary by highlighting the people, traditions, and cultural knowledge that have shaped the nation over time. Visitors can experience firsthand how traditional arts connect past and present while supporting the BLM’s mission.
From April through October, visitors will have interactive opportunities that represent Native American, ranching, and rural lifeways. Presentations will take place daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Pacific Time, offering deeper insight into each artist’s craft and cultural background.
April 23-25, Sara Barton, traditional basket maker of Mono Lake Paiute and Yosemite Miwuk ancestry works closely with Burns Paiute weavers
May 7-9, Kathy Moss, cowboy poet, buckaroo, horse trainer, and rancher from Prairie City
June 18-20, Roberta Kirk, regalia maker, food gatherer, and bead and dentalium artist from Warm Springs, Tenino and Wasq’u
July 9-11, Cheryl Newhouse, spinner and weaver from Richland
August 13-15, Mildred Quaempts, dentalium artist from the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla
September 24-26, Clair Kehrberg, saddle and gear maker and leatherworker from John Day
October 15-17, Katie Harris Murphy and Mary Harris, regalia and beadwork artists from the Wallowa Band Nimiipuu, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Karuk Tribes
“This interpretive outreach brings people face-to-face with the traditions that continue to shape communities across Oregon,” said Robert Reis, acting manager for the Interpretive Center. “These demonstrations create a meaningful connection to the past through the skills and knowledge that are still practiced today.”
This series is designed to build long-term, high-quality cultural programming at the Interpretive Center, ensuring visitors can engage with authentic traditions and perspectives for years to come.
The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located at 22267 Highway 86 in Baker City and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT. Admission fees apply. For more information, visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center website or call 541-523-1843.
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
Find the mental health support you need
Click to see all resources https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/find-the-mental-health-support-you-need/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline. It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com 
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