Willamette Valley News, Wednesday 11/11 – Veterans Day, Albany’s Veterans Day Parade 11/11 at 11am, Lane County Elections Urges Voters to Fix Signature Discrepancies & Other Local and Statewide News…

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

Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Willamette Valley Weather

Be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area:  https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

The Largest Veterans Day Parade West of the Mississippi in Albany

Traditionally, the parade in Albany, Oregon has been the largest Veterans Day Parade west of the Mississippi and the third largest in the USA.

Albany, Oregon has celebrated Armistice/Veterans Day since 1919. World War I ended on November 11, 1918, when the Armistice with Germany went into effect. Thus, the first celebration of the end of “the war to end all wars” was November 11, 1919. https://linncountyveteransdayparade.org

Lane County Elections Urges Voters to Fix Signature Discrepancies

The Lane County Elections Office continues to process ballots received for the November 3^rd General Election.

As of Monday morning, there are a total of 3,068 ballots countywide that have not yet been counted, not including those that will be received from USPS today and tomorrow and postmarked by November 3.

Of those 3,068 ballots, 235 are missing signatures and 1,571 have signatures that do not match the voters’ records. Another 1,262 ballots must be hand-processed due to a combination of damaged (torn, dirty, water damage, etc.) ballots unreadable with Elections Office equipment, and those requiring additional processing and resolution.

Each voter with a missing or mismatched signature receives a letter from the Lane County Elections Office with instructions for “curing” their ballot by providing evidence that it was the eligible voter who returned the ballot. Voters must cure their ballots by the end of the work day on Tuesday, November 24, or their ballots cannot be counted.

“Curing ballots is a critical part of the election process and ideally every voter with a missing or challenged signature would take the time to cure their ballot,” said Lane County Clerk Tommy Gong. “Unfortunately, many voters choose not to respond to the notifications they receive. During our last general election, only 30 percent of missing or mismatched signatures were cured.”

Voters who forgot to sign their ballot return envelope receive this letter. Voters whose signatures did not match their voter record receive this letter.

The next election results update is planned by the end of the day on Tuesday, November 10.

“We truly appreciate the public’s patience as we do our due diligence to ensure the integrity of the election,” said Gong.

More information about ballot processing and election security is available at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/ElectionSecurity.

About the Lane County Elections Office:

The Elections Office, located at 275 W. 10^th Avenue in Eugene, is responsible for conducting elections in Lane County.  The Elections Office manages voter registration, the processing of mail ballots, recruitment and training of election workers, and certification of elections.

Lane County Government · We’re back for Season 2!

Our emergency preparedness podcast “When It Hits The Fan” returns this week with a new round of monthly episodes.

This season will focus on talking with responders in our community about how their agency handles large-scale emergencies and how we all work together to help keep Lane County safe.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Podcasts or Spotify.You can find more information, including past episodes and show notes, at LaneCountyOR.gov/fan

Hit-and-Run at Planned Parenthood Under Investigation

Eugene police are investigating a hit-and-run at the Planned Parenthood on North Danebo Avenue.

At 11:15 p.m. November 8, Eugene police responded to the location for a report of a vehicle having crashed into the building. A neighboring business owner reported a grey Dodge Challenger had been in the parking lot for approximately 10 minutes before it appeared to intentionally accelerate into the building. It then backed out and drove away.

The damage to the building was described as significant, with a vehicle-sized hole where the front windows used to be. A representative of Planned Parenthood said she felt the incident was targeted. The incident is under investigation. Case #26-17836

911 Phone Line Outage Affects Eugene and Springfield and County Emergency Services

The Eugene Police Department (EPD) announced around 7am on Sunday, November 8, that 911 phone service through Central Lane Communications was down, along with the area’s non-emergency phone number. The lines were partially restored in two hours, but total restore took seven hours.

 ·Update 3: The issue has been resolved. 911 is up and running at full capacity. During this outage, there was a backup system in place, however it was not local, so 911 texting was the preferred method of contact. Phone lines are now full operational.

Update 2: The cause is being investigated as a copper wire theft. Picture to the left.

Update 1: Some lines have been restored. 911 can be reached, although is at a limited capacity. Please continue to text 911 if you are able and have an emergency. The nonemergency line is still down. Use epd.mypdconnect.com to report a nonemergency. Please do not attempt to “test” the system with texts or calls unless you have an emergency.

911 Phone Lines Down – All 911 phone lines are currently down, including the nonemergency number. If you have an emergency, please text 911 while we work to get this issue resolved. We will send out an update as soon as the phone lines are back up and running.

Lane County Parks to celebrate North Jetty park reopening with ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 19

Lane County Parks invites the public to celebrate the reopening of the improved North Jetty recreation area in Florence with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, November 19.

Lane County commissioners, park staff, project partners, and community members will gather to mark the opening of the park following major improvements that enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall visitor experience at this popular coastal recreation area.

The project included reconstruction of two parking lots, the addition of vault restrooms, and other visitor amenities. These improvements provide enhanced public access to the Oregon Coast and support recreation opportunities for residents and visitors.

The project was made possible through the voter-approved Lane County Parks Levy.

These improvements represent an investment in public access, visitor experience, and safety,” said Brett Henry, Lane County Parks division manager. “Thanks to voter support for the Parks Levy and our long-term lease with the Department of State Lands, we are able to enhance public access and recreation opportunities at North Jetty. We look forward to welcoming visitors to the improved park.”

Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to tour recent improvements at Harbor Vista Campground, including an upgraded restroom and shower facility and new hiker-biker campsites.

Event Details

What: North Jetty Park Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony, followed by a Harbor Vista Campground Tour

When: November 19, 11:00 a.m.

Where: North Jetty Main Lot, N Jetty Road, Florence, Oregon

Who: Open to the public

Eugene Council to Weigh Tenant Purchase Program

The city is considering a Tenant Opportunity to Purchase program that would give renters a chance to buy their apartments when landlords sell. The Eugene City Council will consider a proposal on Monday, November 9, 2026, to create a Tenant Opportunity to Purchase program, known as TOPA, that would let tenants have the first chance to buy their apartments if a landlord sells.

The council could approve a feasibility study, direct staff to draft a more specific plan, or urge Oregon lawmakers to adopt a state law.

Proponents say the program could help preserve affordable housing and stabilize housing in Eugene. Some housing providers have raised concerns that a waiting period before a sale could discourage building and investment.

The proposal is one item before the council on Monday, November 9, 2026, and the council may choose among a feasibility study, a staff proposal, or a request to Oregon lawmakers. Oregon already allows residents to buy their mobile home parks, but no tenant purchase program for apartments has been adopted in Eugene.

TOPA first came up when the council reviewed renter policies in February 2026, and councilors asked staff to research options and return with implementation plans. Staff consulted housing advocates, community groups, and some property owners, and research on similar programs in Washington D.C. and San Francisco found they helped preserve affordable housing and prevent displacement, often alongside tenant education and financing help for competitive offers.

Tattoo Artist Arrested For Sex Abuse, Other Offenses

A tattoo artist was arrested in Eugene Wednesday afternoon after an investigation into allegations he tattooed a 13-year-old girl, sexually abused her and provided her with cocaine.

Around 1 p.m. November 4th, Joshua Paul Qualiotto, 38, of Torrance, California, was arrested at Black Label Tattoo on Commons Drive by Violent Crimes Detectives and Patrol officers.

Qualiotto will be lodged at the Lane County Jail on charges of First-Degree Unlawful Sexual Penetration, Third-Degree Sodomy, Second-Degree Sexual Abuse, and Distributing Cocaine to a Minor.

The incident was first reported on October 19th by a family member of the 13-year-old girl. The girl disclosed the abuse began in August. Since that time, police have located at least four additional juvenile victims and believe there are more. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Cliff Sites at 541-682-5147. Case #26-16767

Eugene and Lane County officials are Working to Close Multi-Million-Dollar Budget Deficits While Aiming to Protect Essential Public Services

Eugene City Budget:

• The Deficit: The City of Eugene is mapping out plans to close an approximately $10 million budget deficit (with broader structural general fund gaps previously estimated around $11.5 million to $23 million over multi-year cycles).
• The Strategy: City Manager Jenny Haruyama noted that the budget-balancing process is designed to numerically represent council goals and strategic priorities rather than purely arbitrary cuts, while working to restore public trust and long-term fiscal stability.
• Timeline: Eugene is scheduled to formally adopt its 2027–29 budget in June 2027.

Lane County Budget:

• The Deficit: Lane County is anticipating an around $3 million general fund deficit (noted as roughly $3 million lower than prior cycles), alongside ongoing structural discussions for discretionary allocations.
• The Strategy: County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky stated that the county’s approach focuses on reducing expenses in ways that minimize impacts to core priorities and essential programs, such as public safety, health and welfare, and elections.
• Related Actions: Lane County commissioners separately approved a 5% transfer-site fee hike and service reductions (including closing the Walton Transfer Station) to address a $3 million shortfall in the county’s Waste Management Division.
• Timeline: Lane County passed its 2027 budget cycle earlier this summer.

Lane County Parks seeks applicants for Parks Advisory Committee vacancies

Lane County Parks is currently recruiting volunteers to serve on the Parks Advisory Committee (PAC), with two open positions representing District 1 (West Lane) and District 5 (East Lane).

The Parks Advisory Committee is a seven-member volunteer body appointed by the Lane County Board of County Commissioners. The committee includes five members representing individual County districts and two at-large members. The PAC advises the Board on the park and recreation needs of residents and visitors, including recommendations on project priorities, financial and operational development, land acquisition, and long-range planning for future park programs and facilities. The committee also serves as a liaison representing community interests related to County parks.

Applications for these vacancies are due by November 29, and applications remain on file for 12 months. Submitted applications will be considered if a vacancy occurs during that period. The application can be found at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/pac. 

The full recruitment notice is available online: Parks Advisory Committee Full Recruitment Notice.

About Lane County Parks

Serving communities from the Coast to the Cascades, Lane County Parks provides diverse opportunities for camping, boating, picnicking, recreation, and connection to nature across 68 county parks.

Springfield Business Owner Charged with Drug Money Laundering

Federal authorities have charged Esteban Peralta Fragozo, a 50-year-old Springfield business owner, with laundering over $34 million in drug proceeds and unlawfully possessing a firearm. Key Details of the Case:

• The Business: Esteban Peralta Fragozo owned and operated El Kaiman Western Wear, a Springfield retail shop that also provided international money transfer services.
• The Alleged Laundering: Between January 2018 and July 2026, court documents state the business processed roughly 179,874 wire transfers totaling more than $93 million, with an estimated $34 million tied directly to drug trafficking corridors in Mexico and Honduras.
• Undercover Operations and Seizures: Investigators used a confidential informant and found that Fragozo continued processing wire transfers after being informed the funds came from narcotics sales, utilizing false sender details and fake IDs. A related traffic stop uncovered about 72 pounds of methamphetamine linked to receipts from the business.
• Federal Raids: On November 4, 2026, federal agents from the IRS-CI, DEA, and ATF raided Fragozo’s home, vehicle, business, and person. They recovered a Ruger 9mm pistol, ammunition, and bulk cash.
• Charges and Custody: Fragozo, a Mexican national residing in the U.S. unlawfully, admitted to possessing the firearm and lack of legal status. He was ordered held in federal custody following an appearance in U.S. District Court in Eugene.

Grand Jury Indicts Man on Six Counts Related to Online Child Exploitation

In September 2026, Lane County Detectives working with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force began investigating a case involving the alleged luring of a minor and online sexual corruption. The victim was located in Lane County.

Detectives were able to identify the suspect as Cody Allen Hinze, 28, of Oregon City. Hinze had previously been released from prison early in July 2026 after being sentenced for similar offenses. On October 20, 2026, with the assistance of Clackamas County Parole and Probation, Hinze was taken back into custody.

On October 30, 2026, a Lane County Grand Jury indicted Hinze on six counts of Luring a Minor and Attempted Use of a Child in a Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct.

This case is still active and additional victims may exist.  LCSO detectives are asking anyone with information related to this investigation or who believes they may have been victimized by Hinze to contact law enforcement. The Lane County Sheriff’s Office can be reached by calling 541-682-4150.

Oregon Dept. of Forestry to host live air curtain incinerator demonstration burn in Cottage Grove on November 23rd

COTTAGE GROVE – If you are a small woodland, vineyard, or orchard manager you may know the frustrations of being left with a large amount of woody debris after a harvest or pruning. Trying to decide what to do with all that material is one thing but wait too long and you can accidentally create the perfect habitat for pest insects that can do a great deal of damage to your standing timber or crops.

Many landowners are turning to Air Curtain Incinerators (ACI) to help manage the leftover woody debris. An ACI is a specialized piece of equipment that burns woody biomass. Burning in an ACI produces much less smoke and particulate matter than an open burn pile.

On Monday, Nov. 23 the Oregon Department of Forestry is hosting a live ACI demo. This demo will be held at the Center for Rural Livelihoods, 80574 Hazelton Road in Cottage Grove. Attendees are welcome to drop in from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

This demo is perfect for fire departments, local governments, natural area land managers, Firewise communities, prescribed burn associations, nurseries, orchards, vineyards, arborists, landowners, and anyone who has to manage woody biomass looking for alternative to chipping or pile burning. Attendees will learn about what an ACI is and how to operate one, the benefits of using one, and how the biochar produced can be used to improve your soil.

It is free to attend the ACI demo, but attendees are asked to register before attending. To register and learn more about ACI visit http://tiny.cc/ACI-demos. For questions or help registering, contact InvasivePests@odf.oregon.gov.

Eugene home sellers must obtain a Home Energy Score assessment and include the report with their real estate listings starting April 29, 2027

The City of Eugene’s new policy would require disclosure of a Home Energy Score when a home is listed for sale.

Key Details of the Requirement:

• Effective Date: April 29, 2027.
• The Score: Rated on a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the most efficient), using a U.S. Department of Energy system.
• What is Evaluated: Physical and mechanical features like insulation, windows, doors, foundations, and heating/cooling systems.
• Cost & Time: The city estimates an assessment takes about an hour and costs around $150 (critics and real estate agents estimate up to $250). Low-income assistance programs are planned to cover costs for qualifying sellers.
• No Mandatory Upgrades: Sellers must disclose the score, but they are not required to fix or upgrade anything before selling.
• Exemptions: Distressed sales (such as short sales or foreclosures), incompatible buildings, and commercial properties are exempt.
• Expiration: Reports expire after 8 years, or sooner if major energy-related renovations or square footage changes happen.

https://engage.eugene-or.gov/home-energy-score-project

Food for Lane County Needs Volunteers

We have an urgent need for drivers to help deliver midday meals to homebound seniors in Eugene, in addition to help in the kitchen to package meals and wash dishes.

Because the driver and meal prep volunteer roles are in contact with vulnerable populations, there is a background check requirement. We know that can feel like a barrier—but the satisfaction you’ll feel knowing a neighbor ate lunch today because you made it happen is worth it.

Driver shifts begin between 10 and 11am, and routes take approximately two hours and we reimburse for mileage.

To help, complete our Driver Interest Form at bit.ly/mowdrive, or call Meals on Wheels staff at 541-607-5065 and we can walk you through the process.

The annual holiday fund & food drive at all Eugene Market of Choice locations continues until November 29.

This year, Market of Choice will once again match up to $10,000 in SCAN donations at the register. Food for Lane County will also station barrels at ALL FOUR Eugene Market of Choice locations.

Community members can scan to give at the register and drop off shelf-stable food at all four locations during the drive. Be sure to check out our most-needed foods list!

Market of Choice Willamette – 67 W 29th Ave
Market of Choice Franklin – 1960 Franklin Blvd
Market of Choice Delta Oaks – 1060 Green Acres Road
Market of Choice Willakenzie – 2580 Willakenzie

Lane County Youth Services preparing to host free community holiday meal seeking Local companies or people interested in supporting the event through donations

The free 16^th Annual Community Holiday Meal with Lane County Youth Services is coming up on December 16. The free meal, which is open to everyone, also includes free raffle tickets for prizes and free food boxes to take home.

“The holiday meal is a highlight for our youth and for all the people who come to enjoy a meal together,” said,” said the event organizer, Senior Juvenile Justice Supervisor Shellye Reynoso. “Last year we served about 250 people and we hope to see at least that many come through the doors this year. Every contribution helps and it shows the youth who prepare the meal that our community cares.”

The event uses donations of food, services and financial contributions to help provide the food, sponsor the food boxes, and provide raffle prizes. Donations are tax deductible and donors are recognized on displays at the event.

Local companies or people interested in supporting the event through donations should contact Shellye Reynoso at 458-234-3180 or eynoso@LaneCountyOR.gov“>Shellye.Reynoso@LaneCountyOR.gov.

About the MLK Education Center — The Martin Luther King, Jr. Education Center is part of Lane County Youth Services and serves middle and high school students who have an active case with the division. This program is a collaboration between Youth Services and the Lane Education Service District (Lane ESD). In addition to academics, the MLK Education Center provides vocational opportunities, including in the culinary arts. The Culinary Arts Program offers youth the opportunity to learn different jobs involved in food service and catering. Students gain skills and learn to safely use the equipment in an institutional and commercial kitchen that prepares meals for youth in detention, a residential treatment program, and more. Students may participate in all aspects of catering including preparing foods, serving, and customer service.

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Burrito Brigade Buys Building to Create Community Food Hub

Burrito Brigade has bought the old Center for Appropriate Transport building at 455 West 1st Ave. in the Whiteaker neighborhood to create a new community food hub.

The organization is asking the community to help support building renovation goals. Burrito Brigade needs $300,000 more to fully complete a commercial kitchen installation, food storage infrastructure, ADA-compliant upgrades and critical improvements needed.

Jennifer Denson says “This project has always been community driven. Since Waste To Taste’s start in 2020 we have not looked back. We just keep rescuing more food and growing more organized and it’s incredible to watch the impact and difference we make when we work together,”

Hundreds of volunteer hours weekly are dedicated to rescuing more than half a million pounds of food annually from grocery stores, small businesses, institutions, large food generators and local farms. This community-powered food rescue serves fresh local vegetables and fruit alongside diet and culturally specific products.

The no-barrier access free grocery store, known as Waste-to-Taste, provides households the ability to supplement other systems of support that often have eligibility requirements. Waste-to-Taste serves more than 10,000 households annually.

Rescued food is also redirected through other sustainable distribution channels. Food scraps and spoiled food are diverted to feed farm animals like chickens, goats and pigs, sanctuary animals at a local emu ranch and wolf rescue, and even a mealworm farm.

According to Burrito Brigade, the community connection and creativity around food in the kitchen includes partners in many mutual aid food projects facilitating hot meals, food preservation, community-led cooking classes, food micro-entrepreneurs and youth workforce training. The new community food hub will open its doors to the public in 2027. You can DONATE here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-help-us-build-a-food-hub

Lane County will participate by setting up donation barrels for staff to donate at Lane County owned properties.

“Food for Lane County is already seeing high numbers of pantry visitors at a time when our food supply has been limited due to federal program cuts. We want all Lane County residents to have the food and resources they need to thrive, and we’re very concerned about the welfare of our community if SNAP benefits aren’t available.” said Food for Lane County Director of Development and Communications, Rebecca Sprinson.

For individuals and families in need of food, please visit the FFLC food finder, at:

Food Finder

Those interested in donating can do so by visiting: https://www.foodforlanecounty.org/ways-to=give/donate or by calling 541-343-2822.

$18.95 can help feed 120 people.

Every weekend, the volunteer crew at Burrito Brigade rolls hundreds of delicious vegan burritos to help close the hunger gap here in Eugene. Each box of tortillas — just $18.95 — helps feed 120 neighbors.

Could you spare $18.95 to help? Even better — could you make it a monthly donation to keep those burritos rolling all year long?

Every dollar makes a difference in these times of need. Thank you for being part of the Brigade. Donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/donation…/we-rise-by-lifting-others 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 · Find free food sites near you using OregonFoodFinder.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 Mapto 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.

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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 

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.

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.

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

Taking Another Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey

Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends.

But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle

We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate.

Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.” https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162

We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a huge reward for information that brings Fauna home.

Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing. 

Tipline- 541-359-5638

Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com

FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132

The Junction City Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance locating a missing and possibly endangered person.

62-year-old Wade Felton Lloyd, of Junction City, was reported missing on November 20, 2025.  Mr. Lloyd was last seen on November 16^th in the area of Birch Street and 2^nd Avenue in Junction City. 

Mr. Lloyd normally stays close to the Junction City area, has close ties to his family, and his only transportation is an older motorized bicycle, which is also missing.

Mr. Lloyd is a slender white male, standing 6 feet tall with brown hair and hazel eyes.  Mr. Lloyd is without his cell phone, wallet, and his medications.  

The Junction City Police have exhausted all leads as to his whereabouts and is hoping that the community might recognize him or recall where they last saw Mr. Lloyd.   If you have information regarding Mr. Lloyd or have seen him on or after November 16^th, 2025, please call the Junction City Police Department at 541-998-1245.

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