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
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Rogue Valley Weather
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
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Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center is with Wooldridge Creek Vineyard.
Friday, November 13th
5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Wooldridge Creek Winery, 818 Slagle Creek Rd, Grants Pass, OR
$30 per ticket– includes a glass of Best Friends Cabernet Sauvignon and a curated cheese pairing.
Sunday, November 15, 2026 Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center Included with regular park admission! No additional ticket is required.Search for Missing Hunter in Prospect Area
Family members of a hunter who has been missing for several days are asking the community to join a large-scale search in rural Prospect near Road 200, past Union Creek.
Southern Oregon hosts several Veterans Day events on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, featuring parades, community breakfasts, and musical tributes across Jackson, Josephine, and Douglas counties.
- Ashland Free Breakfast (7:00 a.m.): Hosted at the Ashland Elks Lodge (255 Main St.) by the Ashland Boy Scouts and American Legion Post 14, serving a free breakfast for veterans.
- Central Point Commemoration (9:00 a.m.): Held at Don Jones Park – Oregon Fallen War Heroes Memorial (223 W. Vilas Road), featuring local speakers, a flag lowering, and a moment of silence.
- Eagle Point Parade & Program (11:00 a.m.): Presented by the Eagle Point/Upper Rogue Community Foundation downtown and at the Eagle Point High School Gym, featuring a parade, live music, veteran groups, and lunch.
- Medford Concert (7:00 p.m.): The Southern Oregon Concert Band performs “The Spirit of America” at Oakdale Middle School Auditorium (815 S. Oakdale Ave); admission is free.
Hidden Valley High School Tribute
Tue, Nov 10, 11:00 AM
Hidden Valley High School
Veterans Day event
- Roseburg Parade (11:00 a.m.): The 71st annual downtown parade honoring “America’s 250 – 1776–2026,” showcasing veterans from various eras.
- Umpqua Community College Concert (7:00 p.m.): A joint performance by the UCC Symphonic Band and the Roseburg Concert Chorale at the campus.
The North Medford High School Auditorium Temporarily Closed Due to Newly Identified Structural Concerns
- Closure Reason: Precautionary structural issues found on building beams.
- Action Taken: Contractors are scheduled to install additional beam supports and complete follow-up engineering assessments.
- Timeline: Principal Allen Barber communicated the closure to parents, noting the space will stay shut until cleared as safe.
- Context: This follows the February 2025 roof collapse of the school’s gymnasium, which caved in under heavy snow weight, though district officials note ongoing campus-wide assessments are evaluating all large-span structures.
PETA Offers $5,000 Reward for Information Leading Arrest and Conviction of The Person Shooting Animals With Blowgun Darts Along Bear Creek Greenway
At least two cats (one of which endured a dart piercing its front leg for a week before being rescued), multiple pigeons, and a protected Great Blue Heron were targeted.
The recovered darts feature custom-glued orange tips designed to make them harder to pull out.
Spent darts and injured animals have been spotted along the greenway from Hawthorne Park up to the area near Highway 62 and Table Rock Road.
Discharging blowguns or similar projectile weapons is prohibited inside city limits and city-owned parks in Medford, and intentionally shooting animals can result in felony animal abuse charges under Oregon law.
Who Is Shooting Animals With Darts in Medford? PETA Offers $5,000 Reward
Medford, Ore. – PETA is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction on cruelty-to-animals charges of the person(s) responsible for reportedly shooting at least two cats, several pigeons, and a Great Blue Heron with blowgun darts along the Bear Creek Greenway.
According to the latest reports, a cat was spotted with a dart piercing a leg last week, just seven days after another cat was found similarly injured. Spent darts have apparently been found along the Greenway from Hawthorne Park to the vicinity of Highway 62 and Table Rock Road.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Medford Police Department non-emergency line at 541-776-7206.
“A cruel person is targeting these animals, leaving them wounded and frightened, and we need the public’s help to prevent more cats, birds, or other animals from suffering and dying,” says PETA Senior Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA is offering up to $5,000 in hopes that someone will come forward with the information needed to stop these attacks.”
Following the first reported shooting, PETA sent local TV stations its Here Kitty Kitty video spot featuring It actor Jaeden Martell, which warns that cats left outdoors can fall victim to cruel people and other dangers. PETA encourages guardians to keep cats safely indoors and provide them with toys, scratching posts, climbing structures, and other enrichment.
Southern Oregon will host various Veterans Day parades and community events on Wednesday, November 11, 2026
- 71st Annual Douglas County Veterans Day Parade (Roseburg)
- Time & Route: Begins at 11:00 AM in downtown Roseburg (starting at NE Jackson St. & NE Diamond Lake Blvd., moving to SE Lane St. and SE Main St., and ending at the Douglas County Courthouse on SE Douglas Ave.).
- Details: Themed “America’s 250 – 1776-2026”, this long-running event features full parade details on the Douglas County Veterans Day Parade Page.
- Eagle Point Veterans Day Parade (Eagle Point)
- Time & Location: Starts at 11:00 AM in downtown Eagle Point before heading to a program at Eagle Point High School gym.
- Details: Includes floats, a veterans walk, live music, and free lunch; check updates via the Eagle Point/Upper Rogue Community Foundation Facebook.
- Veterans Day Parade Medford (Medford)
- Time & Location: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Main Street in downtown Medford.
- Details: A large regional parade featuring marching bands, color guards, and vintage military vehicles.
- Ashland Free Breakfast (Ashland): Starts at 7:00 AM at the Ashland Elks Lodge (255 Main St.) with a free breakfast hosted for veterans by local scouts and the American Legion Post 14.
- Central Point Veterans Day Commemoration (Central Point): Held at 9:00 AM at Don Jones Park – Oregon Fallen War Heroes Memorial (223 W. Vilas Road), featuring speakers and a moment of silence.
- Merlin Veterans Day Ceremony (Merlin): Begins at 8:00 AM at Merlin Community Park (100 Acorn St.) with a breakfast and program by the Veterans Walk of Honor.
- Southern Oregon Concert Band (“The Spirit of America”) (Medford): Patriotic concert at 7:00 PM (doors at 6:30 PM) at Oakdale Middle School Auditorium (815 S. Oakdale) with free admission.
- Veterans Day Concert (Roseburg): Performance by the UCC Symphonic Band and Roseburg Concert Chorale at 7:00 PM at Jacoby Auditorium (ticket fees apply for non-veterans/students).
The Rogue Valley International Medford Airport is planning a $140 million expansion project set to begin next year.
The Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport is planning a $140 million phase 1 expansion project that will nearly double the terminal’s square footage.The Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport is planning a $140 million phase 1 expansion project that will nearly double the terminal’s square footage.
The airport saw a record 1.1 million passengers last year and is on track for similar numbers this year. The expansion will nearly double the building’s square footage with no taxpayer money involved, funded instead through airport funds and grants.
Estimated at $140 million for Phase 1 (part of a broader multi-phase plan), funded completely through airport revenue and grants with no taxpayer money.
Early construction work is scheduled to start in January 2027. Major construction is slated to begin in fall 2027, with the phase expected to wrap up by the end of 2029.
The project will increase large-plane capacity from 3 to 7 gates (a new two-story concourse handling at least six mainline aircraft simultaneously). Eliminates outdoor ground boarding for certain gates by replacing them with direct interior building and jet bridge access. Replaces the single baggage carousel with two new carousels in a larger, modernized baggage-handling space, and will accommodate rising passenger volumes after the airport hit a record 1.1 million travelers
A Jackson County Circuit Court judge quashed defense subpoenas for extensive medical records in the criminal case against former Asante nurse Dani Marie Schofield.
Key Details of the Ruling
- The Judge: Senior Judge Lorenzo Mejia issued the ruling from the bench.
- The Defendants/Entities: Subpoenas directed to the Oregon Health Authority and Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center were set aside.
- The Scope: The defense sought broad statewide and hospital infection data spanning five years—estimated to potentially equal up to 100,000 pages or 700 case files—to contextualize the case.
- Reasoning: Judge Mejia ruled that the defense applied the incorrect legal standard, failed to attach a specific witness to the pre-trial demands, and requested uncompiled or confidential data.
- The Defendant: Dani Marie Schofield, 38, faces 44 felony assault counts alleging she diverted liquid fentanyl and replaced it with hospital tap water, causing patient infections.
- Next Steps: A hearing on remaining expert witness motions is scheduled before the next court appearance in January 2027.
Schofield faces 44 felony assault charges alleging that she diverted liquid fentanyl intended for 44 patients and replaced it with tap water, causing infections. Her attorney, Lisa Maxfield, told the court that Schofield could face up to 250 years in prison if convicted on all counts.
Former Oregon Lumber Company Bookkeeper Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Nearly $1 Million From Employer Over Decade-Long Scheme
U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford announced today that Christina Klauda, 53, of Riddle, Oregon, has pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and two counts of making and subscribing false federal income tax returns for a years-long embezzlement and tax fraud scheme that targeted her former employer.
According to court documents, Klauda served as the office manager and bookkeeper for Tower Timber Services, Inc., a lumber company based in Riddle, Oregon, beginning in 2014. In that role, she was responsible for payroll, accounts payable, invoicing, employee dispatch and preparation of employee tax forms.
Klauda admitted that she used her position of trust and control over the company’s financial systems to systematically steal from Tower Timber from 2014 through 2023. The government estimates the company’s losses at more than $1.08 million, while Klauda acknowledges losses of at least $944,371.97.
According to the plea agreement, Klauda began the scheme by increasing her hourly and overtime rates and overstating her work hours in the company’s payroll system. Beginning in 2018, she created a second employee profile in the company’s accounting software and arranged to receive duplicate payroll payments. Klauda received one payment through direct deposit and a second payment through paper checks that she concealed by deleting records of the transactions from the accounting software.
Klauda also admitted to using the company owner’s signature stamp without authorization to issue additional checks to herself and her personal creditors. She disguised these payments as loans, reimbursements or draws, removed the transactions from company records, and failed to report the income to the Internal Revenue Service.
As part of the scheme, Klauda filed false federal income tax returns for tax years 2018 and 2019 by failing to report income she had stolen from the company. Specifically, she failed to report approximately $38,140 in income in 2018 and $74,144 in income in 2019, causing a total tax loss of $27,985.
The bank fraud charge carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison, a $1 million fine and five years of supervised release. Each tax fraud charge carries a maximum sentence of three years in federal prison, a $100,000 fine and one year of supervised release.
Klauda has also agreed to pay restitution to the victims. The parties estimate total restitution will be between approximately $972,356.97 and $1,111,771.56, including losses sustained by Tower Timber and the IRS.
The case was investigated by the IRS-Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine A. Rykken is prosecuting the case.
Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash – 26-30516
Every Wednesday the ACCESS mobile food pantry is at Unete 607 W Main Medford from 4-5:00pm
The citizen group Citizens for Hawthorne Park is urging Medford residents to review upcoming ballpark design materials and participate in key city council meetings regarding the proposed Eugene Emeralds minor league baseball stadium project.
- November 6, 2026: 10% design materials and cost estimates for the stadium study are expected to be published on the City of Medford Website.
- November 12, 2026: Medford City Council will review the results of the 10% design study during a study session (open for public observation via Zoom, though public comment is not accepted during this session).
- November 18, 2026: Medford City Council will hold an official public hearing during its regular meeting, which the citizen group notes may be the primary or only opportunity for public input before any council vote.
ATTENTION ROGUE VALLEY FOTAS NEEDS FOSTERS
The Social Security office in Medford, Oregon, is operating by phone only with no in-person help
Social Security lists its offices in Medford, Oregon, Altoona, Pennsylvania and Danville, Virginia as phone only, with no in-person service. The agency’s list of emergency office changes names all three without an end date. In all, the list names 21 offices in 12 states, and every other state and territory shows all offices open. Anyone who usually walks in with a payment problem, an address change or a direct-deposit question has to start with a call.
For beneficiaries who use those three offices, the question is how to get help when a payment goes missing or arrives wrong. Social Security’s answer is to call the local office. The number is in the Field Office Locator, under the heading Additional Office Information.
The Field Office Locator takes an address, city, state or ZIP code and returns the office’s hours, its phone, TTY and fax numbers, and a link to check for temporary closings. It also links to a page for booking an appointment before visiting an office.
The locator sorts offices by what they handle. Card centers deal with new or replacement Social Security cards and personal information updates. Express card services offices handle similar card tasks and take drop-box items but not benefit applications or appeals. Some offices have limited services and cannot replace cards, so a different office may be needed for those.
The national number is 1-800-772-1213, with a TTY line at 1-800-325-0778, according to Social Security’s page on reporting a death. It lists hours of 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, in most U.S. time zones.
Some errands do not need an office at all. A my Social Security account lets a person request a replacement Social Security number card, change an address or direct deposit, and print proof of benefits or tax forms. None of the three needs a visit to a counter.
The City of Grants Pass invites amateur and professional photographers to enter 2026 Water Quality Report Photo Contest.
Share your unique perspective on the water that connects our community. Winning photos will be featured in the 2026 Water Quality Report.
Categories:
- K-12
- Amateur
- Professional
Prizes:
- The first-place winner will receive $200
- The second-place winner will receive $100
- Winning photos will be featured in the City of Grants Pass 2025 Water Quality Report
Rules:
- Submit an original photo that demonstrates your perspective on the water that connects our community.Photos must be submitted in a digital format suitable for reproduction.
- Submitted photographs must be from one frame captured by a camera (DSLR, point-and-shoot, smartphone, etc.) and not be a composite of several images layered together.
- Images created by AI (artificial intelligence) are not allowed.
- The agreement form must accompany each entry.
- Entries will be judged based on creativity, originality, and theme relevance.
- Entries become the property of the City of Grants Pass. The judges’ decision is final.
- The winning photos will be featured in the 2026 Water Quality Report, on social media, in promotional activities, and recognized during a City Council meeting.
- Photos must be taken in Southern Oregon, specifically the following counties: Curry, Jackson, Josephine, and Klamath.
Terms and Conditions:
Employees of the City of Grants Pass and their family members are encouraged to submit photos but are not eligible for prizes. Winners will be notified via email by January 15, 2026. The first-place winning entry will be featured in the 2026 Water Quality Report, on social media, through promotional activities, and recognized during a City Council meeting.
Prizes are non-assignable and non-transferable. No substitutions are allowed. Winners are responsible for all federal, state, and local taxes. By submitting the entry form, the participant assigns the City of Grants Pass the perpetual, royalty-free, and irrevocable right, and license to use, publish, print, copy, promote, distribute, alter, adapt, modify, edit, reproduce, or otherwise display entries in any way it sees fit without limitation or compensation to entrants for the purposes of public information, public service announcements, and education.
All photos are subject to creative manipulation needed for the formatting of our report or any additional printed or digital materials used. Submitted photos will become the property of the City of Grants Pass, which may be used for additional materials without any restrictions.
The entry deadline is 5 p.m. December 31, 2026
Submit entries to: smorgan@grantspassoregon.gov
https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/1434/Water-Quality-Report-Photo-Contest-2026-
Medford School District Searching for New Head of Security
https://www.medford.k12.or.us/employment1/careers-in-msd/classified-staff
BIG NEWS FOR GUARDIANS OF THE JOSEPHINE COUNTY K-9 UNIT!
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City of Roseburg Government — Wondering where to get the facts about City projects, plans, decisions, events and upcoming meetings?
𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆: 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 
Southern Oregon PBS Still on The Air Despite Federal Funding Loss
Rogue Valley Humane Society
Our Community Food Bank exists to help folks who need an extra helping hand during a difficult month to feed their pets. Our program has a limited budget and so we rely on generous members of our community to donate some of these goods to continue to help assist our community. In 2023 we fed an average of 700 pets a month! This equates to approximately 70 – 40lb bags of food each month! Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.
CSO Case 24-4928 PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives and Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel continue to search for a woman missing out of Prospect, Ore. since September 2024.
Deenah Padgett, 69, was reported missing on Sunday, September 8, 2024. She was last seen camping in the Prospect area on September 4, 2024. She is described as a white woman with brownish-red, partially gray hair, standing 4’8” tall and weighing 90-100 lbs. JCSO detectives and SAR personnel have searched the area extensively and are looking for the public’s help. If you see Deenah or know her whereabouts, immediately call ECSO Dispatch at (541) 776-7206 and reference case 24-4928. If you have any information that might help the investigation, call Detective Friend at (541) 864-8774.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is asking for help identifying the owner a motorhome. It could be associated with a missing person from the Prospect area. JCSO says 68-year-old Deenah Padgett has been missing since August 30 from Prospect, described as a white woman, 4’ 8” tall, weighing approximately 95 pounds with brownish red/greying hair. JCSO issued an advisory this weekend asking anyone with information about the owner of the pictured motor home or Padgett’s whereabouts to call Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatch non-emergency phone number at 541-776-7206.
David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active
The Ashland Police Department’s investigation into the murder of David Grubbs on November 19, 2011 remains open and active. Recently two new detectives have been assigned to look into new leads that have come in.
This case remains important to David’s family, the community, and the Ashland Police Department. As detectives continue to pursue these new leads, anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to the Ashland Police Department at 541-488-2211. The reward for information leading to an arrest on this case remains at over $21,000.
Taking Another Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey
Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends. But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle
We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate. Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.” https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162 We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a reward for information that brings Fauna home. Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing. Tipline- 541-359-5638 Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132
Have Information on Fauna Frey? Please Speak Up!
If you know anything, no matter how small, please contact:- Josephine County Sheriff’s Office
- Tip line: (541) 359-5638
- Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com
You can find food in your community at this link
Our network of food banks and pantries provides free food and groceries across Oregon. No proof of income or documentation required.
https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/
If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.
Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?
Here are resources that can help: 211Info: Dial 2-1-1 or visit the211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon. Oregon Food Bank: Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Map to find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you. Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit theADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area.
11/11/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today
Veterans Day was Originally Called Armistice Day – Here’s How it Began…
ODVA invites Oregonians to Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony Nov. 11 at Capitol
The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs invites Oregonians to join in honoring all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces at the Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the Oregon State Capitol State Park in Salem.
The annual ceremony will feature remarks from state leaders and special guests, along with traditional ceremonial elements honoring the service and sacrifice of Oregon veterans. Additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.
The ceremony will be held on the Capitol Mall, directly across Court Street from the front entrance of the Oregon State Capitol. The event is free and open to the public and will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/odvavet.
Statewide Veterans Day Events — ODVA also maintains a Statewide Veterans Day Events Calendar highlighting local observances and community celebrations throughout Oregon. To find an event near you, visit oregondva.com/event-calendar.
Organizations hosting Veterans Day events are encouraged to submit their event for inclusion on the calendar using the “Add Your Event” link on that page.
If you have any questions, please contact ODVA at (800) 692-9666 or visit www.oregon.gov/odva.
Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or Tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.
Stay Alive Vets to Host 6th Annual Gala on Veterans Day in Salem- Silver Star recipient Matthew Zedwick to keynote evening honoring veterans and supporting veteran suicide prevention
Stay Alive Vets (SAV) will bring veterans, families, and community supporters together on Veterans Day for the 6th Annual Stay Alive Vets Gala, an evening dedicated to honoring those who have served while raising awareness and support for efforts to prevent veteran suicide.
The gala will be held Wednesday, November 11, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial St. SE in Salem. The evening will feature dinner, a keynote address, veteran recognition, and live music from The Denominators.
This year’s keynote speaker is Sergeant Matthew W. Zedwick, a U.S. Army veteran who was awarded the Silver Star for acts of gallantry during combat operations in Iraq.
“Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served, but honoring our veterans also means being there for them when they come home and making sure they know they are not alone,” said Angela Plowhead, Air Force veteran and board president of Stay Alive Vets. “Our gala brings people together to celebrate the strength and sacrifice of our veteran community while supporting programs that provide hope, connection and help when it is needed most.”
The sixth annual gala will also provide an opportunity for guests to learn more about the programs Stay Alive Vets supports to address veteran suicide in Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest.
“Having Matthew Zedwick join us on Veterans Day makes this year’s event especially meaningful,” Plowhead said. “His story reflects courage, service and an extraordinary commitment to others. That same spirit of looking out for one another is at the heart of our work. We want veterans and their families to know that they have a community standing beside them.”
Registration and Tickets
- Tickets: $60/person or host a table of 10 for $600. Purchase here.
- Veteran Tickets: Veterans and families can request their complimentary tickets on VetTix.
- Sponsorship Opportunities: Buy Sponsorships — Stay Alive Vets: SAV Annual
- The group is also accepting silent and oral auction items. Contact angela@stayalivevets.org to donate.
Community members are invited to dress up, dine and celebrate while supporting and honoring Oregon’s veteran community on Veterans Day. Additional event information is available at Home | Stay Alive Vets.
About Stay Alive Vets: Stay Alive Veterans (SAV) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting the veteran community by addressing the pressing issue of veteran suicide. Operated by veterans for veterans, SAV is uniquely positioned to understand and respond to the complex challenges that veterans face after their service. The organization is driven by a deep commitment to ensuring that every veteran has access to the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives after their military careers.
ODHS taking additional steps to improve SNAP payment accuracy, asks households to watch for notices
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is taking additional steps over the coming months to further improve the accuracy of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits so that people in Oregon receive the correct amount of food assistance.
As part of this work, ODHS will conduct several rounds of income accuracy checks on existing SNAP cases and begin requiring proof of housing and utility costs when people apply for or renew benefits. Some households may receive notices requesting additional information.
These efforts are part of the agency’s ongoing work to reduce Oregon’s SNAP payment error rate, improve benefit accuracy and help households avoid unexpected changes to their food assistance as new federal requirements take effect.
“We want every person in Oregon who qualifies for SNAP to receive the right amount of food benefits,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership interim director. “Income can be complicated, especially with gig work, changing work hours or financial help from family members. We also know that not everyone has traditional documents to show their housing expenses. Our goal is to help people understand what information is needed and connect them with support so they can keep receiving the benefits they qualify for.”
What SNAP households should do
Some SNAP households may receive notices asking for additional information about their income, housing or utility costs.
ODHS encourages people to:
- Read notices carefully. Each notice will explain what information is needed and when it is due.
- Respond by the deadline. Providing requested information on time can help prevent delays or interruptions in benefits.
- Keep contact information updated. Make sure ODHS has your current mailing address and phone number so you receive important notices.
- Ask for help. If you have questions or trouble getting documents, contact ODHS as soon as possible. Staff can help you understand what is needed.
Income accuracy checks will continue over the coming months
ODHS will check income on more than 80,000 SNAP cases in November and December 2026, with additional rounds planned next year.
As part of these checks, ODHS will look at household income information to identify anything that could affect a household’s SNAP benefits. If more information is needed, ODHS will contact the household or send an “Information Needed” notice explaining what information is needed.
Not every household will need to take action. However, people who receive a notice should read it carefully and respond by the deadline. Households that do not respond to a request for information may lose their SNAP benefits.
If an income accuracy check identifies information that changes a household’s eligibility or benefit amount, ODHS will send a notice explaining the change.
New proof requirements for housing and utility costs begin Nov. 21
Beginning Nov. 21, 2026, people applying for or renewing SNAP benefits will need to provide proof of their housing and utility costs for those expenses to be counted when calculating benefits.
Housing and utility costs can affect how much SNAP a household receives. Reporting these expenses may help households qualify for more food benefits. For more than a decade, Oregon has generally allowed people to report these expenses without providing documentation.
People who already receive SNAP will be asked to provide proof when they renew their benefits. However, people who move, report a change in their housing or utility costs, or begin paying a new expense before their next renewal will need to provide proof of those costs, even if they don’t receive a notice requesting it.
For housing costs, people need to provide proof of how much their household pays for rent, a mortgage or other eligible housing costs. They also need to identify which utilities they pay for or help pay for, such as electricity, gas or water. They don’t need to provide the specific dollar amount they pay.
Several types of documents can be used to verify expenses, including:
- A rental agreement or mortgage bill
- A utility bill
- A rental agreement that shows how utilities are paid
- A written receipt from a landlord
- A bank statement showing a payment to a landlord, property manager or mortgage company
- A screenshot from a payment app showing your housing payment or which utility the payment was for (including Venmo, PayPal or CashApp)
- A statement from a landlord or roommate who is not part of the SNAP household.
A landlord or roommate who is not part of the SNAP household may also be able to verify expenses by phone.
ODHS staff can help people find other ways to verify expenses if they share housing costs, get help paying bills or do not have permanent housing.
People should continue to apply for SNAP, renew their benefits and complete required interviews, even if they do not have documents ready.
If ODHS does not receive proof of housing or utility costs by the deadline, the agency will determine the eligibility and benefit amounts for the household without counting those costs. This means a household could receive fewer benefits or not qualify for SNAP. However, missing proof alone will not automatically result in an application being denied or an existing case being closed.
How to get help
- Online: Apply for or manage benefits at benefits.oregon.gov.
- By phone: Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time. Help is available in multiple languages.
- In person: Find a local ODHS office at oregon.gov/odhs/pages/office-finder.aspx.
- ONE Online account or Oregon ONE Mobile app: View notices, upload documents and manage benefits.
Learn more about SNAP at oregon.gov/snap.
Oregon Main Street Opens Applications to Join Statewide Network
– Oregon Main Street (OMS) is now accepting applications for organizations to join at the Designated Main Street or the Affiliated Main Street level of the Oregon Main Street Network. This application round is for organizations who demonstrate the readiness and capacity to implement a comprehensive downtown improvement effort based on the nationally recognized Main Street Approach™.
Applications can be found on our website at www.oregonmainstreet under the “How to Join” dropdown. OMS will host a virtual application workshop on November 12th, from 1:00pm to 4:00 pm. The workshop covers some of the requirements to participate at these tiers and provide tips on completing the application. Participants must register in advance click here.
The Designated Main Street level is a mark of distinction that reflects a demonstrated effort to building, growing, and sustaining a main street organization to support efforts to improve a community’s historic downtown by leveraging partnerships and engaging community members. Organizations participating at this level have a high degree of commitment to using the nationally recognized place-based Main Street Approach™ methodology to create lasting impact in enhancing their historic downtowns.
The Affiliated Main Street level is for communities who are either just starting to form, or are working on strengthening their Main Street structure to harness the powerful main street methodology to create lasting impact in enhancing their historic downtown or traditional commercial neighborhood.
Affiliated Main Street and Designated Main Street level communities must have a cohesive core of historic or older commercial and mixed-use buildings that represent the community’s architectural heritage and may include compatible in-fill. They must also have a sufficient mass of businesses, buildings, and density to be effective, as well as be a compact and pedestrian-oriented district.
The primary emphasis of joining at the Affiliated Main Street and Designated Main Street levels is the provided technical assistance from Oregon Main Street to help strengthen revitalization efforts. Acceptance at these levels allows communities to participate in training, program evaluations, technical assistance, and receive local capacity building support. Participating in the Oregon Main Street program is free.
The selection process included submitting an application that describes their district, previous efforts to improve downtown, readiness to implement the Main Street Approach™, board development efforts, in addition to other criteria.
Currently, there are more than 100 communities in Oregon participating in one of the four levels of the Oregon Main Street Network: Accredited Main Street, Designated Main Street, Affiliated Main Street, and Connected Communities. The Connected Communities application is the baseline engagement to our program and is open year-round. The OMS Accredited Main Street designation is achieved by attaining Main Street America™ national accreditation status.
Oregon Main Street is part of Oregon Heritage in Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
Oregon Department of Human Services · Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027 plans will remain open through Dec. 7, 2026.
The Oregon Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program (SHIBA) provides free help so that you can understand your Medicare benefits and make informed decisions. For example, SHIBA certified counselors can help you:- Compare and select Medicare plans- Review your current coverage- Make changes for the upcoming year.“Navigating Medicare coverage is complex and Oregonians should not have to navigate Medicare alone.
Our goal is to make that process easy, accessible, and free.” – ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities Director Nakeshia Knight, Ph.D.Read more in this news release: https://apps.oregon.gov/…/oregon-program-offers-free…
Oregon DFR reminds Oregonians to utilize ACA open enrollment period, be careful of ‘limited partner’ and ‘sharing’ plans
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) reminds Oregonians who receive or want to apply for individual or family health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, called Explore Health, or directly with an insurance company, to use the open enrollment period from Nov. 1, 2026, to Jan. 15, 2027.
The open enrollment period allows people to apply for, renew, or change health plans for the coming year. Explore Health coverage can begin as soon as Jan. 1, 2027, if people enroll in or change plans by Dec. 31, 2026.
The last day to enroll in or change plans for the 2027 plan year is Jan. 15, 2027. After that date, consumers may enroll in or change plans only if they qualify for a special enrollment period. Coverage starts on Feb. 1, 2027, for those who enroll in or change plans from Jan. 1 to Jan. 15, 2027, and pay their first premium.
For more information on Explore Health or to utilize the open enrollment period, visit ExploreHealthOR.gov. You must go through Explore Health to receive financial assistance.
DFR also advises Oregonians to carefully review any health insurance coverage offered outside of the ACA Marketplace. BridgeSpan, Kaiser, Moda, and Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon are the only insurance companies offering ACA-compliant individual and family plans in 2027.
The agency has identified plans that claim they are “self-funded” and refer to consumers as “limited partners” or “employees” in order to avoid Oregon consumer-protection regulations. There are also plans being sold that “share” health care expenses but are not insurance. These plans may not be compliant with the ACA and do not provide comprehensive medical coverage, although they may be marketed otherwise. This leaves consumers with the possibility of being responsible for unpaid medical bills.
DFR encourages Oregonians to use local licensed insurance agents or Explore Health to obtain individual and family health insurance plans that comply with the ACA. Oregonians can find an expert in their area by going to ExploreHealthOR.gov/Help or by calling the Explore Health customer assistance center at 855-268-3767 (all relay calls welcome).
“If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “If a health insurance policy offers unusually low premiums and low deductibles yet promises full or unlimited coverage, be skeptical.”
Consumers who believe they may have been deceived or have questions before enrolling can contact our consumer advocates at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.
About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.
Open Enrollment begins as Oregon launches Explore Health, its new marketplace for private health insurance
People can now shop, compare plans, find savings, and enroll in 2027 health coverage at ExploreHealthOR.gov
— Open Enrollment for 2027 health coverage is now underway, and people in Oregon have a new place to shop for health insurance: Explore Health.
Explore Health, Oregon’s new state-based health insurance marketplace, officially launched Nov. 1. It replaces the federal platform HealthCare.gov as the place for people in Oregon to shop for private health coverage, find out if they can get financial help, and enroll in a health plan.
Open Enrollment for private insurance through Explore Health runs from Nov. 1, 2026, through Jan. 15, 2027.
“This is an important milestone for Oregon and for the people we serve,” said Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, part of Oregon Health Authority (OHA). “With Explore Health, people can now shop for coverage through a Marketplace designed and operated here in Oregon. Our goal is to make it easier for people to understand their options, find savings, and get the best coverage that works for them.”
People who buy their own health insurance can now visit ExploreHealthOR.gov to:
- Shop and compare health and dental plans available for 2027.
- Find out how much federal financial help (premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions) they may qualify for to lower the cost of coverage.
- Enroll in a plan for 2027.
- Get free help from trained insurance agents and community partners across Oregon.
People who have 2026 Marketplace coverage through HealthCare.gov are being moved to Explore Health for 2027. They do not need to start over with a new application. During Open Enrollment, they should claim their Explore Health account, sign in to review their information, compare available plans and savings, and choose the coverage that best meets their health care needs and budget.
People who are currently enrolled in Oregon Health Plan (OHP), OHP Bridge, Medicare, employer-sponsored coverage, or other health coverage generally do not need to enroll through Explore Health.
The launch of Explore Health marks Oregon’s transition from the federally facilitated HealthCare.gov system and customer service center to a state-based marketplace operated entirely by Oregon. The Oregon Legislature authorized the transition in 2023 through Senate Bill 972.
By operating its own Marketplace, Oregon has more control over the technology and services people use to enroll in coverage, better access to data to understand and respond to the needs of people across the state, and greater flexibility to adapt to changing state and federal policies. It also allows Oregon to better connect the Marketplace with state programs and resources.
Explore Health includes a new online enrollment platform, a dedicated Consumer Assistance Center, and tools for community partners and insurance agents who help people enroll.
“Launching Explore Health is an important step in Oregon’s commitment to helping people get and stay covered,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, interim director of OHA. “Bringing the Marketplace home to Oregon gives us new opportunities to better understand the needs of the people we serve, respond to changes that affect their coverage, and create a more connected experience for people seeking health care coverage.”
Free help is available — People do not have to navigate health coverage on their own. Free, local help is available from certified assisters at community partner organizations and licensed insurance agents.
Visit ExploreHealthOR.gov to get started and find enrollment help.
People can also contact the Explore Health Consumer Assistance Center at 855-268-3767 (all relay calls welcome) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time on Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturday during Open Enrollment.
Open Enrollment through Explore Health ends Jan. 15, 2027. People should enroll by Dec. 31 for coverage that begins Jan. 1, 2027.
About Explore Health — Explore Health is Oregon’s health insurance marketplace, operated by the Oregon Health Authority. Explore Health helps people who do not have health coverage through a job or a public program shop for private health insurance, find financial help and enroll in coverage. Learn more at ExploreHealthOR.gov.
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The Bend-La Pine School District plans to reopen Silver Rail Elementary on Thursday, November 12, 2026, roughly four weeks after an Oct. 15 shooting killed three children and a teacher.
The district will place at least eight extra adults on campus daily, including permanent substitutes, an extra administrative liaison, and behavioral support staff.
An armed School Resource Officer (SRO) will be stationed at the school all day, every day, through the end of the school year.
Additional mental health specialists will be on-site to support the school’s roughly 450 students and staff.
The specific classroom where the shooting occurred is being restored and will be walled off/shuffled away from active student areas.
Families who do not feel ready to return on Thursday are being offered choices such as online learning or a transfer to another school.
Support Services and Community Resources
- Child Care: Free child care options are available for district families through November 6 via the Boys & Girls Club of Central Oregon.
- Free Food Assistance: Grab-and-go breakfast and lunch are provided Monday through Friday (November 2–6) from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at R.E. Jewell Elementary School (20550 Murphy Road, Bend).
- Safety & Community Sessions: Bend-La Pine Schools is planning community engagement sessions for the upcoming week to discuss districtwide safety, security, and feedback from families.
Kaylub Giamanco recalls the events immediately after he followed the 16-year-old shooter into Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend in an exclusive interview with OPB.
Warning: This story contains graphic details.Three children — ages 5, 8 and 11 — and a 25-year-old teacher were killed on Oct. 15. Two others were seriously wounded.
Giamanco pursued and fatally shot the teenage shooter with a personal weapon he stored in his truck.In an emotional interview, Giamanco described seeing the boy with a weapon entering the elementary school where he had earlier dropped his two young daughters off for school picture day.
He said he made a split-second decision to pursue the shooter. He described it as the scariest day of his entire life, and said he’s thinking of the victims’ families, wishing he could have saved their loved ones. — Read more and watch the interview on OPB.org.
The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office reported that 204 individuals have signed up to begin the process of obtaining a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) following the Oct. 15, 2026, shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend.
Key details reported by the sheriff’s office and local media include:
- Number of Applications: 204 people started the CHL application process in the week following the shooting, which is double the number of new CHL applications recorded for the entire quarter ending in July 2026.
- New Training Class: In response to the high demand, the sheriff’s office scheduled an additional CHL training class for Saturday, November 14, 2026 (with 45 spots available).
- Sheriff’s Statement: Sheriff Ty Rupert noted that historical trends show increased interest in concealed handgun licenses following major community-impact incidents.
The Oregon Public Utility Commission has sanctioned Avista’s annual purchased gas adjustment (PGA) filing, leading to revised customer rates that will take effect on October 31, 2026.
This adjustment is designed to align customer rates with the actual wholesale costs of natural gas that Avista procures for service delivery.
The Oregon Public Utility Commission approved an 8.5% rate increase for Avista residential customers, adding roughly $5.83 per month for a typical household using 45 therms.
Key Details of the Avista Adjustment:
- Effective Date: October 31, 2026
- Service Area: Affects approximately 106,500 natural gas customers in southwest and northeast Oregon.
- Reason for Change: The annual Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) updates customer rates to reflect actual wholesale natural gas costs, true-up projections from the previous year, required accounting adjustments, and the expiration of prior-year amortizations. These costs are passed through directly to customers without a utility markup.
- Timing: The rate adjustment takes effect one day before Oregon’s winter rate hike restrictions begin under the FAIR Energy Act.
Managing Your Energy Costs — You can explore energy-saving tips and available customer rebates through the Energy Trust of Oregon. For billing questions or payment assistance options, visit the Avista Utilities Website.
Oregon and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are actively recruiting volunteers to provide free tax preparation assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.
Program Overview
- Target Audience: Low- to moderate-income families, senior citizens (TCE focuses primarily on people age 60 and older), individuals with disabilities, and people with limited English proficiency.
- Impact: Volunteers help eligible residents claim federal and state tax credits (such as the Earned Income Tax Credit) that often go unclaimed due to filing costs and complexity.
- Training: No prior tax experience is required. Volunteers receive approximately 30 hours of specialized IRS tax law and software training delivered around January, with service typically running from February through April (though some sites operate year-round).
- Roles: Flexible scheduling options are available, and volunteers can serve in a variety of roles including tax preparation, greeters, and interpreters.
How to Volunteer — You can sign up or learn more by visiting the IRS Tax Volunteers Page or checking updates from the Oregon Department of Revenue Newsroom.
Pacific Power offers Oregon customers rebates for backup power
Program helps eligible customers prepare for wildfire-related outages and winter storms
With a record-setting wildfire season that brought power disruptions to communities across Oregon winding down, Pacific Power is reminding eligible customers about rebates that can help them prepare for future outage events. As our focus transitions to winter storm season, qualified customers and licensed care facilities can still get help purchasing backup power equipment.
Income-qualified residential customers who rely on electricity for medical equipment can receive a rebate of up to $1,000, and eligible licensed residential care homes, care facilities, adult foster homes and hospices can qualify for up to $4,000 in rebates. These rebates can be used toward a qualified portable power station, battery or permanent backup generator.
“We prioritize emergency preparedness education and communication in our communities so our customers are prepared in the event an outage whether related to wildfire safety or seasonal storms,” said Carrie Laird, vice president of wildfire mitigation and emergency operations for Pacific Power. “We want eligible customers and care facilities to know this assistance is available and encourage them to apply before the upcoming deadlines so that they can take advantage of these helpful programs, which can offer peace of mind.”
To qualify for the residential rebate, applicants need to have an active Pacific Power account number, either as a customer or as the tenant of a Pacific Power customer. They also have to be enrolled in both Pacific Power’s Medical Certificate program and Oregon Low Income Discount program. Eligible customers should select backup power equipment from the program’s qualified product list and meet applicable requirements, which are spelled out in detail on our website.
Licensed care facilities also have to have an active Pacific Power account number, either directly or through a Pacific Power customer whose property they occupy. Eligible facilities include licensed residential care homes, care facilities, adult foster homes and hospices.
Eligible equipment must be purchased by December 31, 2026, and Pacific Power must receive the completed application and purchase receipt by January 31, 2027. Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis until the program’s annual funding is fully used.
Pacific Power launched the Oregon Backup Electric Power Rebate Program in 2023. Since then, the company has issued 421 rebates totaling more than $1.2 million.
The program is also helping communities strengthen their backup power readiness. In 2025, Linn County identified eligible care facilities and encouraged them to invest in backup power. Twenty-seven facilities received rebates of $4,000 each, for a total of $108,000. A batch application process is now available for jurisdictions submitting applications for multiple facilities.
Customers with questions about batch applications for multiple care facilities may email Generator@resource-innovations.com“>PacPowerGenerator@resource-innovations.com.
Check out Oregon State Parks with your library card
Borrow an Oregon State Parks parking permit for free at 82 libraries statewide.
– Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) and the State Library of Oregon are partnering to offer free state parks parking permits to Oregon public libraries. There are currently 200 parking permits available at 82 libraries across the state.
“Oregon’s state parks are for everyone,” said OPRD deputy director JR Collier. “As we assess ways to manage our budget responsibly, we also want to uplift equitable access to our parks.”
Each participating library received up to four parking permits. These are the physical hang tags you check out from the library and put in your car. The permit covers parking in all Oregon State Parks day-use areas for one vehicle. Go to the Oregon State Parks website to find participating libraries. All you need to participate is your library card.
“Libraries help make life more affordable for Oregonians. This program leverages the existing borrowing system to help connects folks of all income levels with the beauty and splendor of Oregon’s State Parks,” said Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian.
Both OPRD and the State Library contributed 100 parking permits to the program to distribute to libraries. The agencies determined how many passes each library would receive based on interest from the library, its proximity to a park charging a day use fee, and the size of the population it serves. The State Library purchased permits with Library Services and Technology Act funds from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.
OPRD first distributed parking permits to 28 libraries as part of a year-long pilot program starting in August 2024. Those passes were checked out more than 2,100 times. At the pilot’s conclusion, OPRD evaluated how to best move the program forward in the context of its changing fees. In 2027, OPRD and the State Library will continue to explore options for an expanded long-term program that will serve even more libraries and people in Oregon. Learn more about the OPRD Library Pass Program.
Staying Informed During a Communications Outage: Best Practices for the Public
Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it’s vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:
Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio
- Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
- Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. Tip: Pre-tune your radio to your local emergency broadcast station (e.g., OPB in Oregon or NOAA frequencies).
Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone
- Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
- WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if cell service is out, WEA alerts will not be delivered. This is why having backup methods like a radio is essential.
Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power
- Charge phones, power banks, laptops, and rechargeable flashlights before fire weather conditions worsen.
- Consider solar-powered chargers or car chargers as backups.
- If you are sheltering in place, a generator (solar or gas powered) is helpful.
Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance
- Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
- Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” Download your area in advance so you can navigate even if cell towers or internet access are down.
- When in doubt, call 511 or visit the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
- Don’t wait for a notification—if you feel unsafe, evacuate early.
Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info
- Phone numbers of family, neighbors, and local emergency contacts.
- Address of evacuation shelters, veterinary services (for pets/livestock), and medical facilities.
- Your own emergency plan, including meeting locations.
- Have copies of vital documents in your go-bag and take video of your property (inside and out) for insurance claims later.
If Calling 9-1-1 Over Wi-Fi or Satellite, Check Your Location Settings
If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.
- Update this emergency address when you travel or relocate—especially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
- Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you are—include your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.
Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage
- Register for OR-Alert and your county’s local alert system.
- Follow your local emergency management officials’ and bookmark resources like: wildfire.oregon.gov.
Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps
- Know the three levels of evacuation:
- Level 1 – Be Ready
- Level 2 – Be Set
- Level 3 – GO NOW
- If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasing—take action even if you haven’t received an alert.
Be Your Own Info Network
- Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities.
- Post printed signs with updates for those passing by.
In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points. Support and Restoration in Progress To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. *** Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.
Reconnect When Service Returns
- Once communications are restored, check official websites:
- Oregon.gov/oem
- Your county emergency management page
- TripCheck.com for road conditions
- Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.
Prepare for Delays in Restoration
- Communication may come back in phases. Damage to fiber lines or cell towers can take time to repair.
- Continue using backup methods and stay alert for updates via radio or in-person notices.
Final Tip:
In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs
No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state. The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability. In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs. If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.
Oregon’s Missing Persons
Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either. Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced
Find the mental health support you need
Click to see all resources https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/find-the-mental-health-support-you-need/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline. It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com 
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