The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Monday, September 8, 2025
Willamette Valley Weather
Wildfires continue to produce smoke in the Pacific Northwest. Breathe a little easier by keeping up to date on air quality conditions and concerns at Fire.AirNow.gov.
Please take precautions to avoid sparking a human-caused fire, be familiar with evacuation levels, and have a go-kit ready in case you need to leave your home.” — . Don’t be that spark that could lead to a tragedy! Check Conditions
Fatal Shooting at West 11th Walmart in Eugene
Last Update: Police Investigating shooting at Walmart Update on Saturday, September 6: The person who shot the firearm remained on scene and has been cooperative. The deceased is a 21-year-old man. Eugene Police is not naming him to give his family time. The investigation is continuing, and any tips can be directed to Detective Cliff Sites, 541.682. 5147.
Previous Information on September 5:At 5:18 p.m on September 5, Eugene Police responded to reports of a shooting in the W.11th Walmart parking lot. One person is deceased and their name is being withheld until family can be notified. Eugene Police Violent Crimes Unit is investigating and is seeking information and tips on any involved parties. If anyone has tips, they are asked to call Detective Cliff Sites at 541.682.5147Case 25-14478
Eugene Mayor Responds to Public Backlash Over License Plate Readers on KLCC Today at 7pm
Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson has responded to public backlash over the city’s use of AI-powered license plate readers.
The city installed the cameras earlier this year. They create a digital fingerprint of vehicles, and connect with a nationwide database owned and operated by the private company Flock Safety.
Critics of the technology have shared concerns that federal law enforcement could access the data that the cameras collect. In August, Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden announced an agreement with nationwide Flock to limit access to Oregonians data—but some privacy advocates argue that’s not secure enough.
While speaking at the City Club of Eugene on Friday, Knudson said she knows there are big questions about the safeguards around this technology.
She told the audience she expects Eugene City Council to discuss the issue this fall.
“It’s important for us to have an open community conversation about what we are trying to accomplish with this technology,” said Knudson, “how EPD is using cameras at these intersections to be able to identify individuals who, in some cases, have been engaged with significant criminal activity in our community.”
During her appearance at City Club, Knudson spoke with KLCC’s Rebecca Hansen-White about multiple topics, including safety in downtown Eugene, affordable housing development, and emergency room access.
Eugene’s City Council reconvenes Monday evening after a nearly two month summer recess.
The full interview with Mayor Kaarin Knudson will air as part of the City Club of Eugene broadcast on Monday at 7 p.m. on KLCC. https://www.klcc.org/politics-government/2025-09-05/eugene-mayor-knudson-responds-to-pushback-against-flock-cameras
Caught at the door – Robbery suspect nabbed leaving bank
A 75-year-old Salem man was arrested Friday afternoon, September 5, for robbing a downtown bank.
Just before 1:45 p.m., staff at the Willamette Valley Bank in the 100 block of High ST NE reported that a man handed a note to a teller demanding $200. After receiving the money, he walked out of the building.
A Salem officer at the Marion County Courthouse, heard the radio call, walked out, and saw the man outside the bank. When approached by responding officers, the suspect, Richard Kenneth Gorton, from Washington, laid down on the sidewalk and was arrested without incident.
Gorton was taken to the Marion County Jail and lodged on the charge of robbery. For questions about this case, contact the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.
Waste from J.H. Baxter’s west Eugene plant was buried in barrels at the closed Day Island Landfill, where Pre’s Trail sits today. Among the chemicals detected in the landfill is the same type of pollution that helped trigger the Superfund listing of the company’s facility. But agencies say they have not looked at the landfill since the early 2000s.
That’s because the soil there is only a thin layer, where most roots can’t take deep hold. Beneath it lies a decommissioned county landfill that for nearly a decade served as a catchall for residential and commercial waste. Among its users was J.H. Baxter, a company that treated wood with pesticides at a west Eugene facility that is now a Superfund site.
The park was developed in three months during an age of minimal environmental regulation. Landfills in other areas have been turned into parks but have undergone extensive testing for contamination. For example, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) listed Cully Park in Portland in its Brownfield Program, which provides funding to evaluate whether risks are present for human health.
However, for Day Island Landfill, neither the DEQ nor Lane County has reviewed the site in the last 25 years, relying instead on monitoring and testing conducted in the 1980s and 1990s, which were preliminary assessments not intended to be conclusive.
Agencies point to low risk based on preliminary assessments, but the site has not received a final clearance letter that rules out future action. They also have not revisited the site since the Superfund designation for Baxter’s west Eugene location earlier this year. (READ MORE)
Corvallis Police Statement Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement Action
On September 3, 2025, at approximately 7:30 a.m., the Corvallis Police Department became aware of an incident in the 1500 block of NW Division St where an individual was taken into custody by persons who appeared to be federal agents. Follow-up confirmed the incident was part of a federal enforcement action conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The Corvallis Police Department had no prior knowledge of this operation and was not involved in any way. We did not participate in, assist with, or provide support for this action.
Under Oregon law, local law enforcement agencies — including the Corvallis Police Department — are prohibited from using public resources to support or assist federal immigration enforcement. This includes the use of facilities, property, personnel, funds, equipment, or technology.
There are no ICE detainees housed at the Corvallis Law Enforcement Center, and ICE is not operating from or using our facility. The Corvallis Police Department remains committed to transparency, community trust, and full compliance with state law.
Eugene Couple Arrested and Charged With Sex Trafficking
Anthony D’Montrez Crawford (Crawford), 29, and Kaytlynn Ann Crawford a/k/a Alderman (Alderman), 27, of Eugene, Oregon, have been arrested and charged by criminal complaint with violations of sex trafficking of children by force, fraud, or coercion, transportation for prostitution, persuading or coercing to travel to engage in prostitution, use of an interstate facility to induce or coerce a minor to engage in prostitution, transportation of a minor for prostitution, and conspiracy.
According to the criminal complaint, Crawford forced individuals to engage in prostitution in the Eugene and Springfield area. Crawford advertised online for sexual services, coordinated prices and services with customers, rented hotel rooms for prostitution, and collected money from the victims through intimidation, threats of violence, and actual violence. Crawford also transported victims using rental cars to other cities, including Portland, to engage in these services.
Alderman facilitated Crawford’s sex trafficking criminal venture. Alderman opened a car rental account and rented vehicles for Crawford, allowed hotel bills to be paid with her bank card, and allowed payments from customers to be received through a CashApp account in her name.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Seattle rescued a minor victim who was forced to engage in prostitution there as well as in Portland and the Eugene and Springfield area. An adult victim was also identified as being forced to engage in prostitution in Portland and the Eugene and Springfield area.
Crawford and Alderman made their first appearances in federal court today. Crawford was ordered detained pending further court proceedings. Alderman was released pending further court proceedings.
The FBI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Huynh is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
If you or someone you know are victims of human trafficking or have information about a potential human trafficking situation, please call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lane County Clerk says “I Do” to Marriage Ceremonies Again
The Lane County Clerk’s Office is ready to help couples walk down the aisle again, resuming marriage ceremonies after a hiatus.
Couples who wish to be married at the Lane County Clerk’s Office can now schedule a ceremony with County Clerk Tommy Gong. Ceremonies will be held at the Lane County Public Service Building in downtown Eugene on most Fridays.
“We are excited to once again be part of such a meaningful moment in people’s lives,” Gong said. “We can offer couples a simple, joyful way to begin their future together. All of us at the Clerk’s Office are happy to see these ceremonies return.”
Couples must first obtain a valid marriage license from the Clerk’s Office (125 E. 8th Avenue, Eugene) before a ceremony can be performed. To obtain a marriage license, couples fill out the online Marriage License Application and then must visit the Clerk’s Office at least three days before the ceremony to complete the license process.
The marriage license fee is $60 and a marriage officiated by the County Clerk is $117. Additional details, including license requirements and scheduling information, can be found on the Lane County Clerk’s website.
The Willamette National Forest is looking for dedicated individuals to join our team!
You’ll play a critical role in our fire program, protecting communities and supporting forest health in Oregon. If you’re committed to teamwork, public service and fire management, we want to hear from you.
LOCATIONS: Springfield, Oregon Detroit, Oregon McKenzie Bridge, Oregon Westfir, Oregon
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Apply here: USAjobs.govDeadline to apply is Sept. 23, 2025 
Learn more about the Willamette National Forest by visiting our website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/willamette. For benefits, information about working in wildland fire, or more information about the USDA Forest Service, visit www.fs.usda.gov/.
Emigrant Fire Update
Widespread showers and cooler temperatures are expected through mid-week on the Emigrant Fire. Yesterday all locations in the forecast area had GOOD to MODERATE air quality and those conditions persisted overnight into this morning.
With the likely weather, fire activity on the Emigrant Fire is anticipated to remain low, and any smoke impacts should be minimal and GOOD air quality anticipated in all locations. However, there could still be limited local impacts as winds push lingering smoke into communities near the fire.Continue to track air quality conditions on the Fire and Smoke mapand take steps to Reduce Your Smoke Exposure, if conditions change.
More than 10 miles of hose has been installed around the perimeter of the Emigrant Fire — that’s longer than the drive from the Historic Office Covered Bridge to Hills Creek Dam! Firefighters are using this water system to drown hot spots until they are “dead out.”
Patrol the line with our firefighters along Forest Service Road 2136. REEL: https://www.facebook.com/EmigrantFire/videos/686219560395573
RESTRICTIONS & CLOSURES: Fire restrictions for the Willamette National Forest can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/willamette/fire. A closure order for the fire area can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/willamette/alerts/emigrant-fire-closure-order.
SMOKE: Smoke and air quality information is available at https://www.oregonsmoke.org/ and https://www.airnow.gov.
SAFETY: More than 850 people are assigned to Emigrant Fire, working out of fire camp near Oakridge and the FOB near Diamond Lake. Please watch for increased traffic on all roads near the camps and accessing the fire.
Flat Fire Update
As of Friday morning, the Flat fire is at 97% containment, and the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Complex Incident Management Team 3 will transfer command of remaining operations to a local Type 4 management team at 8 a.m. this morning. No other updates at this time 9/5 9am
Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District SEPTEMBER 7, 2025
Fire Status: The Flat Fire is secure and suppression repair is complete. Smoke and dust may continue to be visible in the interior of the fire.
With the final stages of repair reaching completion this weekend, the local interagency Type 4 incident management team would like to give a final update regarding the Flat Fire.There have been two main groups working in the fire vicinity and around homes and structures near the Flat Fire: Repair and Patrol. The repair group consisted of dozers, excavators, and fire line leadership. They focused on mitigating effects of heavy equipment directly related to firesuppression activities, including flattening dozer berms, creating water bars to mitigate erosion that could occur during heavy rainfall, and repairing cut fences. The patrol group consisted of engines, hand crews, and fire line leadership. They used hand tools and water to mitigate any remaining smokes and hot spots, securing the perimeter of the fire.
Both groups have been accompanied by medical staff and a safety officer, as there is still significant risk while working in an area affected by wildfire, even after the flames are gone. These two groups have ensured that the fire is secure several hundred feet from the fire’s edge into the interior.Moving forward, there will be continued patrols in a collaborative effort between Lake ChinookFire and Rescue, Oregon Department of Forestry, and US Forest Service-Cascade Division.Night patrols provided by Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District and Cloverdale Fire District concluded Saturday, September 6th.
Both departments continue to be staffed 24/7 and are available to respond as needed. Black Butte and Hinkle Butte fire lookouts remain in service, so professional fire lookouts will have eyes on the Flat Fire area. The fire will be monitored until it is covered by winter rain and snow.Over the last several days, smoke has been visible within the fire perimeter. This is expected, as unburnt fuel and vegetation continue to consume. The fire has been secured so that nothing will spread outside of the current footprint.
Thank you for your continued patience and support as firefighting resources have been working on your streets and in your neighborhoods.All remaining Level 1 Evacuations in Deschutes County were dropped as of 6:00 pm on Sunday,September 7, 2025.Report all wildfires to 911.
U.S. Forest Service – Willamette National Forest — ·FOLEY RIDGE FIRE UPDATE – Sept. 7, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Firefighters are engaged in a full suppression response to the Foley Ridge Fire on the McKenzie River Ranger District. Previously known as Incident 387, the lightning-caused fire is estimated at 20 acres. The fire is located on a cliff visible from Oregon Highway 242 (McKenzie Highway) approximately seven miles east of McKenzie Bridge.
Dozers, an engine, and crews are on scene. Aviation support includes air attack and three helicopters with scoopers on order. Support is also being provided by the Oregon Department of Forestry. Additional resources are en route. Crews are scouting locations for containment line and utilizing direct tactics along the fire’s edge where possible.
Smoke is visible in the vicinity of the fire and may settle into nearby drainages overnight. Smoke and air quality information is available at https://www.oregonsmoke.org/ and https://www.lrapa-or.gov/air-quality-protection/current-aqi/.
Visitors should be aware of increased fire traffic and avoid the area. For the status of Highway 242, please check the Oregon Department of Transportation’s website at https://tripcheck.com. Please remember to check for and follow all fire restrictions when visiting the Willamette National Forest at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/willamette/fire. To report a fire call 911.
FOOD For Lane County is collecting short, anonymous stories from community members about how SNAP or food pantry programs have made a difference in their lives.
The new federal law, known as the “Big Beautiful Bill” will cut SNAP benefits and impact 757,700 Oregonians. Your voice can help raise awareness and defend access to food for thousands of people in our community.
Responses are 100% ANONYMOUS. Please answer one or more of the prompts. https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=udJFysn31UqbRcPRJH0Ew4z62Go4_hdOgeuS7G3tEtpUN0lJNjhQNTdVTkYzMUhPOTFDU1JaQThTSy4u&fbclid=IwY2xjawMUv4NleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFUNkRvb053V1hEekJ1NGxLAR4lSe3v8oKwHs-fEr3dB7K6mBieN_ty401pN-OwFrXFhirbDV4i1hJbypW7Bw_aem_gxYIVwPs5kYNC7mhRZR5tQ&route=shorturl
Every story helps us advocate for food access and fight hunger in our community.
United Way of Lane County
Days of Caring Volunteer Registration is open now! Grab your friends, family, or colleagues and make a difference with nonprofits around Lane County this September 25 & 26.
Learn more and register today on our Volunteer Website https://www.volunteeruwlane.org/search…
Lane County to Open 2025–2026 Community & Economic Development Grant Program
Lane County’s 2025–2026 Community & Economic Development (CED) Grant Program solicitation will officially open for applications on September 3, 2025, with a submission deadline of October 8, 2025 at noon. Application materials are available now to give interested agencies a chance to prepare.
The CED Grant Program offers competitive funding to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and government entities that serve Lane County. The program supports projects and initiatives that strengthen our local economy, foster innovation, support entrepreneurs and small businesses, invest in workforce training, and revitalize Main Streets and downtowns across the region.
With a total of $200,000 available for the 2026 grant cycle, individual grant awards will range from $5,000 to $30,000. Priority will be given to proposals that:
- grow employment or wages in key sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, technology, food and beverage, biosciences, and childcare;
- support small businesses and entrepreneurs through technical assistance and incubation;
- foster innovation and industry engagement; and
- enhance Lane County’s downtowns and commercial corridors.
“We are really excited to launch this program again,” said Jason Harris, Community and Economic Development manager for Lane County. “These grants enable us to support innovative projects in our community that might not otherwise have funding. We encourage potential applicants to begin preparing their proposals and take full advantage of this year’s offerings.”
More details, including application materials and FAQs, are available now at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/CEDgrant or by contacting CED@LaneCountyOR.gov. Applications will be accepted via Lane County’s procurement site, Bidlocker, between September 3, 2025 and October 8, 2025.
Las solicitudes y aplicaciones también están disponibles en Español.
About Lane County Community and Economic Development
Lane County Community and Economic Development is your Oregon Video Lottery dollars at work! Community and Economic Development programs support building vibrant communities by partnering with local business support organizations, cities, special districts and economic development agencies to facilitate community development and create economic prosperity. This program fosters economic opportunity across Lane County with a specific focus on rural and unincorporated communities.
Oregon Department of Transportation – As the 2025-26 college football season nears, expect heavy traffic on the weekends of home games for University of Oregon and Oregon State University.
Expect all-day traffic congestion in the #WillametteValley on these dates as thousands of fans travel to and from the games. Remember, there are many ways to get around in Oregon! You can walk or roll, take a bus or train, or share a ride. Learn more, plan a trip, or find a ride at GetThereOregon.org.
Catholic Community Services of Lane County, Inc. (CCS) – Winter Warmth Drive – September & October
As the cold months approach, too many of our neighbors don’t have the essentials to stay warm. You can help! We’re collecting new or gently used jackets, coats, gloves, socks, blankets, hats, and scarves to provide no-cost clothing to anyone in need. Every item makes a difference.
Drop your donations at our Springfield Community Service Center at 1025 G Street, or any of our collection bins this September and October and help spread warmth across our community. To find a collection bin near you, go to http://www.ccslc.org/wwd Together, we can ensure no one faces winter alone.Catholic Community Services of Lane County
Willamette Valley Crisis Care
Current and former CAHOOTS workers have started a new organization: Willamette Valley Crisis Care! Check ’em out on instagram (here) and facebook (here) and share the news that they’re ready to bring back CAHOOTS as CAHOOTS 2.0.
Lane County Stand Down
Win 2 Nights Lodging in Oakridge and enjoy “Oakridge Rocks The Park!”! Coming Oct 18th!
Click here to win 2 nights stay in Oakridge! —– Click here for more info on the event.
Burrito Brigade needs to expand so we may better serve the food challenged and the best option is to buy our own building.
Waste To Taste
· 
We’re 67% of the way there 
Can you help us reach our fundraising goal?We’re in the process of buying a new building—and with your help, we can renovate it into a space that stores more rescued food, serves more people, and becomes a true hub for nourishment, connection, and dignity. Every dollar brings us closer.
https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse… Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org
Please help us reach our goal for a permanent home. https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse…
Got an Extra Can or Two? Let’s Fill the Little Free Pantries Together!
Our Little Free Pantries are running low—and for some neighbors, these are their only source of food right now.If you’ve got:
A few extra cans
A box of pasta
Unopened hygiene items
Kid-friendly snacks…you can make someone’s day a little easier.
Just place your donation directly into any Burrito Brigade Little Free Pantry around town. No sign-up, no questions—just community caring for community. Find a pantry near you: BurritoBrigade.org/pantries It’s a simple act with a big impact. Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org
White Bird Clinic – · Crisis intervention is a 24/7 need in our community, and CAHOOTS, as part of White Bird Crisis Intervention programs, responds.
White Bird CAHOOTS Springfield Coverage: 11 am – 11 pm, 7 days a week (541-726-3714)
White Bird Clinic
This year marks 60 years of community health centers transforming care across the U.S. At White Bird Clinic, we’re proud to be part of this legacy – bringing whole-person care to our community’s most vulnerable neighbors for more than 50 years! From medical and dental services to harm reduction and crisis response, we’re here to meet people where they are.Learn more about community health at the link below: https://www.nachc.org/about-nachc/history-of-chc/
Whole Community News Report on CAHOOTS:
Since December of 2023, Eugene lost the University District hospital and the Hourglass Crisis Center, and as of last week, CAHOOTS. These were no-barrier treatment access points for our most vulnerable neighbors to receive care when experiencing a mental health crisis. READ MORE: https://wholecommunity.news/2025/04/20/public-comments-ask-city-not-to-lose-cahoots-too/
Contact for Services — Phone: CAHOOTS is dispatched within the Springfield urban growth boundary through the non-emergency number, 541-726-3714.
Starting in the new year, White Bird Dental Clinic will offer more walk-in clinic times. Currently, we offer walk-in clinics at 1415 Pearl St. every Monday and Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. In January, we will also add every other Friday at 7:30 a.m. Find more information at whitebirdclinic.org/dental
Oregon Food Bank
Hunger in Oregon is rising — and federal and state cuts to food assistance are making it worse. In 2024, visits to food programs grew 31%, yet resources to meet this need are shrinking.
Programs like SNAP, which help 1 in 8 Oregonians put food on the table, are facing deep cuts — leaving more families, children, veterans, and elders to make impossible choices between food, safety, and shelter.
We need policies that protect access to food for all our neighbors. Because no one should have to choose between staying safe and going hungry.
Food is available for those who need it and by entering your zip code at OregonFoodFinder.or -You can see each local program’s contact information, hours of operation and what kind of distribution it is.
We partner with 1,200+ free food markets, pantries and meal sites all across Oregon and Southwest Washington — and welcome anyone and everyone who needs food. OregonFoodFinder.org
There are now more unemployed people than there are jobs available in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The situation in Oregon is even worse. The state ranked third for the most unemployment claims per 100,000 people in the workforce last week, according to a recent WalletHub report.
The unemployment rate is the percentage of people in the labor force who are actively looking for work but not currently employed. It’s a common way to measure the health of the job market and economy.
U.S. unemployment has experienced fluctuations and a small overall rise over the past year. Most recently, the job market continued to falter, with new unemployment claims increasing by 3.5% week-over-week on August 25.
There are currently 7.24 million job seekers and 7.18 million open positions, according to the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, or JOLTS report.
For the week of Aug. 25, unemployment claims increased more than 12% over the previous week. Oregon unemployment claims were also more than 30% higher than the same period last year.
Compared with other states, Oregon ranked sixth for states where unemployment claims increased the most over the previous week.
Connecticut topped the list, and it also saw the most claims per 100,000 people in the workforce. California ranked second for claims per 100,000 workers, and Oregon was third, followed by New Jersey and New York.
The District of Columbia had the most significant difference, with a more than 105% change in unemployment claims year-to-date, compared with the same period last year.
Oregon’s unemployment rate hit 5% for the first time since the pandemic in August. According to the state unemployment dashboard, Oregon lost 2,700 jobs in July. More than 39,000 weekly claims were submitted from Aug. 24 to Aug. 30.
Unemployment rates in Oregon counties ranged from 3.6% to 7.4% in June 2025.
In Oregon, Josephine County, OR had the highest unemployment rate at 7.4%. Wheeler County, OR had the lowest at 3.6%. Multnomah County, OR, the county with the largest labor force in the state, had an unemployment rate of 5.1%. The latest county-level data is from June 2025.
Oregon’s average gas price increased this week, rising to approximately $4.08 per gallon, according to AAA, which noted a 7-cent increase. This rise is part of a broader national trend, with the U.S. average also increasing by 6 cents this week.
Oregon medical leaders say they’re seeing an uptick in COVID cases across the state.
The Oregon Health Authority reports that August saw the highest COVID test positivity rates of the year—with some weekly rates that were more than seven times higher than this year’s low point in January.
Lane County’s Senior Public Health Officer, Dr. Patrick Luedtke, said the virus appears to be less prevalent in Oregon than in California or Washington, based on wastewater data. But he said he’s predicting another potential increase in cases this month.
“We have states above us and below us with higher volume of disease. We have just returned to school. There’s rain in the schedule at about a week from now, and people are going to be inside breathing the same air,” said Luedtke. “This is not rocket science.”
Luedtke said people who get sick should wear a mask in public, stay home if they can, and have a respiratory plan in place with their medical provider if they’re at high-risk.
He said he expects COVID vaccines to be available in Oregon this fall, despite changing federal guidance. He’s advising people to get their booster.
“I suspect there’s a lot of people whose immunity has waned because they didn’t get the booster last year,” said Luedtke. “They probably didn’t get COVID in the last 12 months, because we haven’t had tons of it, and they’re going to be at risk for an infection this fall. So now is the time.”
Luedtke said it may be harder to locate somewhere with vaccines in stock this year, and some people may have to pay out-of-pocket if their insurance doesn’t over a booster.
The Food and Drug Administration has only approved the newest vaccines for people 65-and-older, or who have underlying conditions that put them at-risk. Oregon has now joined a West Coast alliance to develop separate vaccination guidelines. (SOURCE)
Oregon Community Foundation Invests Another $120,000 in Disaster Readiness and Recovery
Grants Mark Five-Year Anniversary of Labor Day Fires with Focus on Preparedness
Five years after the Labor Day megafires devastated parts of Oregon, 11 nonprofits are receiving new funding to help communities continue to recover and prepare for future disasters. Oregon Community Foundation today announced $120,000 in new grants from its Disaster Readiness and Response Fund.
The fund is an initiative that emerged from the 2020 wildfires. It provides rapid-response grants for immediate recovery and supports preparedness programs that help build more resilient communities. As a collective giving fund, anyone can contribute to it. An earlier fund to support wildfire recovery after the 2020 fires distributed $10.8 million over several years.
“The fires of 2020 changed Oregon forever — but they didn’t define us,” said Kim Koenig, Director of Statewide Community Programs and Disaster Resilience at OCF. “Oregonians came together then, and we’re coming together now to prepare for the future. We’re not just remembering what happened five years ago. We’re reimagining how Oregon shows up for each other long into the future.”
Devastating Megafires – The Labor Day fires that began on September 7, 2020 were fueled by high winds and dry conditions that resulted in 1.2 million acres burned, more than 4,000 homes destroyed and 11 deaths. The fires displaced thousands of Oregonians and left widespread destruction across the state, with major impacts in the Santiam Canyon, the McKenzie River corridor and southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley.
The new grants support collaborative, community-based organizations that coordinate resources and services for long-term readiness and resilience in seven Oregon counties affected by the 2020 wildfires: Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Linn and Marion.
Recovery Continues – The funding also reflects the ongoing impact of the Almeda Fire in southern Oregon. Grants will support nonprofits that continue to serve survivors, including Talent Maker City, Rogue Food Unites, Firebrand Resiliency Collective, Coalición Fortaleza and United Way of Jackson County.
One person who experienced the devastation firsthand and worked on multiple fronts to respond is Dee Anne Everson, President and Executive Director of United Way of Jackson County. Everson, who also sits on the Board of Directors of Oregon Community Foundation, says funding partners responding to the 2020 wildfires had to collaborate closely to serve communities effectively. Everson adds that those partnerships yielded critical lessons for the future.
“We have to be prepared together,” Everson said. “I think we certainly learned that. It’s really important in the world of philanthropy to talk to people on the ground who are doing the work. You want to make sure that all of us — wherever we are on the ground doing the work — stay deeply interconnected.”
Earlier this year, OCF issued grants to support recovery from flooding in Harney and Douglas Counties and wildfires in the Columbia River Gorge, along with disaster preparedness efforts in Douglas, Lake and Harney counties.
Learn more and donate to the Disaster Readiness and Response Fund of Oregon Community Foundation.
Full List of New Disaster Readiness and Response Grantees
Clackamas County Voluntary Organization’s Active in Disaster | Oregon City | $10,000
Coalición Fortaleza | Medford | $10,000
Firebrand Resiliency Collective | Ashland | $10,000
Glide Revitalization | Glide | $10,000
Jackson County Community Long Term Recovery Group | Talent | $10,000
McKenzie Valley LTRG of Lane County | Blue River | $10,000
Rogue Food Unites | Ashland | $10,000
Santiam Memorial Hospital | Stayton | $20,000
Talent Maker City | Talent | $10,000
United Way of Jackson County | Medford | $10,000
United Way of the Klamath Basin | Klamath Falls | $10,000
About Oregon Community Foundation –
Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF strengthens communities in every county in Oregon through grantmaking, scholarships and research. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.
PLEASE Help Prevent Human-Caused Wildfires
9/8 – 3 am – #OregonFires
#evacuations#fires 5 FIRES in EVALUATION MODE:93 Oregon Wildfires – many are silent fires between 1 to 3 acres. These silent fires can quickly turn into dangerous fires. Please stay alert and ready.#crookcounty – Marks Creek Fire (0944) – 1718 ACRES – EVAC 3 
GO NOW and LEVEL 2 (Be set) and LEVEL 1 ( Be Ready) 18% containment #GrantCountyBRIDGE FIRE – 220 ACRES – 15% containment – LEVEL 2 (Be Set), LEVEL 1 (Be Ready)#wascocountyHIGHLAND FIRE 86 ACRES – LEVEL 1 ( Be Ready)#josephinecounty#currycounty KELSEY PEAK FIRE – 685 ACRES – 0% containment EVAC 3 ( GO NOW) and LEVEL 2 (Be set), and Level 1 ( Be set) BLACK ROCK FIRE (963) #wheelercounty#gilliamcounty#WascoCounty#ShermanCounty32,453 ACRES – LEVEL 2 ( Be set), LEVEL 1 ( Be ready) 10% containment Silent Fires and Evacuations can change very quickly, so please stay alert 
and safe. WILDFIRE MAP: 
https://www.arcgis.com/apps/instant/portfolio/index.html…CLICK FIRE LINKS 
Oregon Dept of Emergency Management https://arcg.is/1vGHri1——————————————————-CLINK FIRE LINK THEN CLICK MAP TAB
https://geo.maps.arcgis.com/…/a6c8f8e58ad642f4813732233…—————————————————CLINK FOR FIRES https://experience.arcgis.com/…/6329d5e4e13748b9b9f7f3…/
Preventing wildfires requires a collective effort from everyone—help mitigate the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our forests and communities.
Monitor Fires in Oregon – Updated Daily
Please Help Prevent Wildfires!
Learn how you can prevent wildfires by visiting the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention page.
Ashland Oregon Police Department ·Homicide Investigation Case 25-1588
On September 7th, 2025, at 3:38 AM, Ashland Police Officers and Paramedics from Ashland Fire & Rescue (AFR) were dispatched to a report of person laying on the ground next to a vehicle near ‘A’ Street and North 2nd Street, Ashland. Officers arrived to find a male who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics confirmed the male was deceased upon their arrival, and a homicide investigation was initiated.
The Jackson County Major Assault/Death Investigation Unit was activated by Ashland Detectives, which brought personnel from the Medford Police Department, Oregon State Police, Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office, Jackson County District Attorney’s Office, and the Oregon State Police Crime Lab.
At this time, the investigation has revealed that the victim was inside his parked vehicle on ‘A’ Street, near North 2nd Street, when an unidentified suspect approached the vehicle and fired multiple rounds at the victim, striking him several times. The suspect can be seen on security camera footage from nearby businesses fleeing the scene toward North Pioneer Street on ‘A’ Street following the shooting. The suspect appeared to be wearing dark clothing.
It is not believed that this incident was random, as it appears this was a targeted attack on the victim. There is no indication of a specific public threat at this time. The victim has been identified as 40-year-old Matthew Mark Vandersande, of Ashland. Next of kin has been notified.
We are asking for the public’s assistance to identify additional investigative leads. If you have any information that you feel may be helpful to the investigation, or you have surveillance cameras in the area that may have caught footage of the incident or suspect between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM, please contact Detective Sergeant Rick Spence at 541-552-2172 or the Ashland Police Department Tip Line at 541-552-2333.
Investigators have been informed that many people in the Ashland community knew Vandersande mainly by his vehicle, so a photograph of the vehicle has been included.Our condolences go out to the victim’s friends and family in this difficult time. Further information will be provided by the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.
Off-Duty Commercial Airline Pilot Pleads Guilty to Interfering with Flight Crew
PORTLAND, Ore.—Joseph David Emerson, 46, of Pleasant Hill, California, an off-duty commercial airline pilot, pleaded guilty today for attempting to shut down the engines of a passenger plane in flight.
According to court documents, on October 22, 2023, Emerson, an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot seated in a cockpit jump seat, attempted to shut down the engines of a commercial passenger plane traveling from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, California. After a brief physical struggle with Emerson, who quickly left the cockpit, the pilots diverted from their route and landed at Portland International Airport. Once on the ground, Port of Portland police officers placed Emerson under arrest.
On October 23, 2023, Emerson was charged by criminal complaint with interfering with flight crew members and attendants.
Emerson faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
As part of the plea agreement, Emerson has agreed to pay restitution in full to the victims.
Emerson will be sentenced on November 17, 2025, before a U.S. District Court Judge.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, and Port of Portland Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Parakram Singh is prosecuting the case.
‘Hope in Motion’ event 9/13 to raise awareness on Oregon’s Vanished
The non-profit Oregon’s Vanished hopes to shed some light on the missing individuals that continue to remain unsolved cases.
The public is invited to take part in the organization’s ‘Hope in Motion’ event on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Lynchwood Church of God in Southeast Portland. https://www.facebook.com/events/1403102080775307
Oregon has over 300 missing children, most from the Portland area. Every flyer shared, every child ID kit completed, and every prevention resource handed out can help save a life. Together, we can protect Oregon’s children.
Human trafficking has become a hot-button topic that’s become a real-life issue in our local communities across Oregon and SW Washington. MORE INFO: https://www.oregonsvanished.org/
Joint Child Exploitation Task Force Sweep Arrests Five Local Suspects for 39 Felony Counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse, Another Suspect Currently in Custody in Missouri Jail
JCSO Cases 23-4725, 23-4751, 24-0008, 24-2212, 24-2249, 24-2380, 24-3127
JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. – The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) joint inter-agency task force arrested five suspects today, September 3, on a total of 39 encouraging child sexual abuse felony charges. Investigations led to arrests throughout Jackson County including addresses in Medford, Ashland, White City, and Eagle Point. Although the cases are not connected, total felony charges included 30 counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse, and nine counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. In total, SOCET discovered more than 800 images of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) during search warrants of the five suspects.
Each investigation began when SOCET received tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which led to subpoenas, followed by search warrants at the respective residences. Investigators seized digital devices during the searches and applied for additional warrants to examine the devices. Once the additional search warrants were signed, the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) forensically examined the devices for further evidence of child exploitation. At that point SOCET took each case through a Grand Jury hearing and the courts issued warrants for each suspect’s arrest.
The first arrest came in Eagle Point when SOCET went to a residence in the 400 block of Stevens Road in Eagle Point. The task force located and arrested Kevin Lee Bratton, 46, of Eagle Point, on 10 felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail. During the course of the investigation SOCET found Bratton had more than 100 CSAM images.
Next, the task force located a suspect at his residence in the 80 block of Pine Street in Ashland. The task force arrested Shale Tiercel Pagel, 34, of Ashland, for five felony counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail. SOCET found Pagel had 682 CSAM images.
The task force then located and arrested David Richard Lubina, 40, of Medford, during a traffic stop in White City. Lubina is charged with six felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged at the Jackson County Jail. Investigators initially served a search warrant at his former residence in the 1100 block of Gate Park Drive in Medford. The investigation revealed Lubina had 13 images of CSAM.
The next arrest came when SOCET investigators located Brandon Scott Matlock, 39, of Eagle Point, at his residence in the 6500 block of Shadow Glen Road in rural Eagle Point. Matlock is charged with nine felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail. During the SOCET investigation Matlock was found with 15 CSAM images in his possession.
The final arrest for the sweep came when investigators contacted Margarito Baldazo Banuelos II, 19, of Medford, at his residence in the 200 block of Ivy Street in Medford. Banuelos is charged with four felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse, and three felony counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail. Previously, a NCMEC cyber tip led investigators to a residence in the 500 block of Talent Avenue in Talent where evidence was located. SOCET found Banuelos had 12 CSAM images.
One suspect is currently in custody at Taney County Jail in Missouri. Erik Thiel Rowe, 45, will be extradited back to Oregon to face two charges of first- and second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. Investigators initially served a search warrant in a converted school bus on a property in the 6500 block of Rogue River Highway in rural Grants Pass near the town of Rogue River. SOCET discovered Rowe had two CSAM images in his possession. Rowe also has an outstanding felony warrant for a probation violation for second-degree sex abuse.
Many local and federal law enforcement agencies assisted SOCET with today’s arrests. These agencies included Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Oregon Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ODOJ ICAC), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Marshals Service Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force, Oregon State Police (OSP), Medford Police Department (MPD), Ashland Police Department, Central Point Police Department, Eagle Point Police Department, Talent Police Department, and SOHTCTF.
Video Interview available for download: https://vimeo.com/1115649861?share=copy#t=0
SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, MPD, ODOJ ICAC, and HSI, as well as prosecutors from our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson and Josephine County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, and MPD.
In a recent announcement from the office of Senate Majority Leader Kayse Jama, it was stated that due to Senator Chris Gorsek’s recovery from complications arising from a scheduled medical procedure, the Senate votes on HB 3991 and HB 3992 will be postponed until September 17.
Gorsek has played a significant role in transportation policymaking. In a statement issued by Governor Tina Kotek, Senator Gorsek was wished a swift recovery, and the Senate’s decision received support.
House Republican Leader Christine Drazan expressed her opposition to the recent approval of a $4.3 billion tax package by the Oregon House today. Drazan highlighted that 94% of Oregonians voiced their opposition to the package during public testimony. She condemned the choice to double payroll taxes on Labor Day while simultaneously raising the costs of gas and DMV services.
Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) commends a substantial investment aimed at assisting more low-income households in managing their utility expenses. In June, legislators approved House Bill 3792, which increased funding for the Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) from $20 million to $40 million.
Governor Tina Kotek enacted the bill, along with additional energy affordability legislation, into law yesterday. ” OEAP offers energy assistance to eligible customers of Portland General Electric and Pacific Power, determined by household size and annual income.
Since its inception in 1999, OEAP has aided over 85,000 customers, with 92% of participants successfully avoiding energy shutoffs. In light of the federal administration’s announcement regarding possible reductions and the elimination of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Oregon lawmakers took action to protect residents from this uncertainty by broadening the state-funded OEAP.
LIHEAP, which delivers grants and energy efficiency services to millions across the nation, has become a crucial support system for families.
ASTORIA, Oregon — ASTORIA, Oregon — The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will convene Sept. 16-17 in Astoria, Oregon.
On Sept. 16, commissioners will tour Fort Stevens in the morning and conduct a work session 1 to 3 p.m. about the Reimagine State Parks strategic initiative and a rate review.
On Sept. 17, commissioners will convene an executive session at 8:30 a.m. at the Astoria Elks Lodge #180, 453 11th St. in Astoria to discuss real estate and legal issues. Executive sessions are closed to the public. A business meeting will begin at 9:45 a.m. and will be open to the public.
Anyone may attend or listen to the business meeting. To watch the business meeting, go to the livestream on the OPRD Director’s Office YouTube channel.
The business meeting also includes time for informal public comments related to any items not on the agenda. Registration is required to speak at the meeting if attending online, and is available online at https://bit.ly/registersep2025commission
The deadline for registering to speak at the meeting virtually is 5 p.m., Sept. 12. No advance registration is required to speak in person at the meeting. Time per speaker is limited to three minutes. Please submit written public comments by 5 p.m. Sept. 12 to OPRC.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov
The full agenda and supporting documents are posted on this webpage and will be posted on the commission web page.
Notable requests:
- Request to adopt recommended grants for 2025 Local Government Grant Program (LGGP):
- Large Grants totaling $15,707,853
- Small Grants totaling $1,101,673
- Planning Grants totaling $450,000
- Request to adopt ATV sound and equipment rules after rulemaking responsibility was transferred from Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).
- Request to adopt Public Contract and Procurement Rules to outline OPRD’s public contracting and procurement requirements. Senate Bill 838 exempts OPRD from the Public Contracting Code except for surplus property and information technology related procurement.
- Request to adopt rules about Special Assessment for Historic Property in response to House Bill 3190, which reauthorizes the program as a 10-year benefit for commercial, income-producing historic properties.
Anyone needing special accommodations to attend the meeting should contact Denise Warburton, commission assistant, at least three days in advance: denise.warburton@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-779-9729.
Register Now for 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference
Registration is now open for the 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference, the state’s largest gathering dedicated to honoring and supporting women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The biennial event, hosted by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, will bring together women veterans from across Oregon for a weekend of connection, resources and recognition.
The event is free and open to all women veterans, but registration is required. The 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference is being held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Riverhouse Lodge in Bend, which was the planned location of the 2020 event that was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This year’s theme, ‘Stronger Together: Community and Connection,’ reflects the heart of what this conference is all about,” said Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “Women veterans have long served with distinction, strength and resilience — often in the face of tremendous challenges and barriers.
“This conference is an opportunity to honor our service, share our stories, and ensure every woman who has worn the uniform feels seen, valued and supported. We are stronger when we stand together, and united, we will continue to drive the ODVA mission forward.”
The Oregon Women Veterans Conference began nearly 30 years ago as a grassroots effort by a small group of women veterans seeking connection, support, and resources. Since the first event in 1998, the conference has grown into a unique statewide gathering that brings together women veterans from across Oregon to access benefits, build meaningful connections, and amplify their voices.
The 2025 conference will continue that legacy with inspiring keynote speakers, engaging workshops, fantastic networking opportunities and assistance for women veterans connecting to the full range of benefits and resources they have earned. It is a supportive space where women who have served can connect, grow, and thrive beyond their military service.
This year’s keynote speaker is Erin McMahon, director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and a retired U.S. Army brigadier general, attorney and combat veteran. During her 24-year career in the U.S. Army, McMahon served as the principal deputy general counsel for the National Guard Bureau, advising senior leaders through a wide variety of domestic disaster responses and serving as the first female Army National Guard general officer in the Office of the General Counsel.
Registration is free and may be completed online at www.eventbrite.com/e/odva-women-veterans-conference-tickets-1407725487829. Community sponsors and donors are the primary sources of funding for this event and help ensure all women veterans can attend the conference free of charge.
Registration for the Women Veterans Conference covers the event only; attendees are expected to make their own lodging and travel arrangements. More information about the Women Veterans Conference, including local lodging, donations and sponsorship opportunities, can be found online at wvc.oregondva.com.
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.
ONE YEAR LATER: Sheriff’s Detectives, Search & Rescue Still Searching for Missing Prospect Woman Deenah Padgett; Looking for Public Help
JCSO 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.Aaron Lewis
JCSO Public Information Officer (PIO)
LewisAJ@jacksoncountyor.gov
Desk: 541-864-8773
Cell: 541-531-8203
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
