FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2026
Contact: Kari Goodheart, Chief Petitioner
Initiative Petition 2028-025 — Oregon Freedom Amendment
www.oregonfreedomamendment.org

Chief Petitioner Will Not Appeal Certified Ballot Title; Campaign Turns to Funding and Circulation

SALEM, Ore. — The Attorney General certified a ballot title for Initiative Petition 2028-025, the Oregon Freedom Amendment, on September 25, 2026. Electors have until October 9 to petition the Oregon Supreme Court for review of that title. Chief Petitioner Kari Goodheart will not file an appeal.

“The fight over wording is not worth the cost — in money, in time, or in the energy this campaign needs for the work that actually puts a measure in front of voters,” Goodheart said. “The real battle is funding this petition and printing the resources volunteers need to collect signatures.”

The certified summary tells voters the measure’s “effect on current law is unclear.” That line is the core omission. Oregon’s highest court has already said what current law is.

In State v. Pulos, 64 Or. 92, 95 (1913), language the Oregon Supreme Court has repeated since, the Court wrote that “no person has an absolute property right in game or fish while in a state of nature and at large; … the taking of them is not a right, but is a privilege, which may be restricted, prohibited, or conditioned, as the law-making power may see fit.” Title to wildlife is held by the state in its sovereign capacity, in trust for the people — not as an individual right belonging to Oregonians themselves. Today the legislature can ban or severely restrict hunting without surviving heightened constitutional review.

The Freedom Amendment would change that legal category. It would give the people of Oregon an individual, fundamental right to hunt, fish, trap, farm, ranch, raise livestock, cultivate crops, harvest natural resources, and engage in generally accepted practices of agriculture, animal husbandry, and scientifically based wildlife management. It would constrain how the state may regulate those rights. Regulations would have to be reasonable and necessary — narrowly tailored to conservation, public safety, or the protection of public health and property rights, and consistent with sustainable, science-based practices.

The measure would not abolish seasons, tags, hunter education, or trespass laws. The change is the legal floor: hunting and the other listed activities would be protected rights the state must justify restricting, instead of privileges the state may withhold. Courts would treat them more like other enumerated individual rights than like a license. That is a solid constitutional defense for the people’s rights in Oregon — not an uncertain one.

Goodheart submitted detailed comments during the public-comment period. Those objections are on the record. She will not spend the campaign’s limited resources litigating a title that still leaves voters with the impression that the legal effect of a constitutional right is a mystery.

Supporters who want this measure on the November 7, 2028 ballot are asked to help with funding and printing so signature gathering can move forward as soon as circulation is authorized.

Donate and volunteer: www.oregonfreedomamendment.org

SPRINGFIELD, Ore.  (30 September 2026) – Thanks to a generous donation from the Oregon Community Credit Union Foundation and the PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Foundation, Oregon State Police patrol and Fish and Wildlife vehicles in Lane County now have an automated external defibrillator (AED). Thirty-nine AEDs have been deployed to troopers in the Springfield, Oakridge, and Florence patrol offices.

About 30 times every year, troopers throughout the state respond to incidents requiring CPR. In 2026, troopers have already performed CPR more than 20 times. Particularly in rural areas, if a trooper receives notification of a cardiac arrest, they can often respond in minutes and start CPR or deploy an AED while EMS is en route.

Having AEDs in the hands of law enforcement responders helps get critical care to patients quickly. The sooner an AED is deployed to help re‑establish a normal heart rhythm, the more likely the patient is to have a meaningful recovery. The AEDs have a QR code that EMS can scan to give hospital staff and emergency room doctors real-time access to the patient’s heart rhythm.

Central Region Captain Ryan Martin said, “I’ve been in law enforcement for nearly three decades, and AEDs weren’t available when I first became a police officer. Now, we have an opportunity for troopers in rural areas of the state to respond to medical calls, make a difference, and potentially save someone’s life.”

Earlier this summer, troopers responded to a medical call near John Day for an elderly man who was unresponsive and not breathing. Two troopers took turns giving chest compressions and rescue breaths while delivering six shocks from an AED before paramedics arrived. After paramedics delivered two more shocks, the patient began showing a pulse and started breathing. The patient was transported to a local hospital and survived.

OSP troopers are non-transport pre-hospital providers, with about 20 troopers certified as EMTs and a few as paramedics throughout the state. From pre-academy to annual training, troopers receive CPR and other first-aid training throughout their careers with OSP. As part of the EMS program, OSP has a medical director and maintains medical protocols.

Sr. Trooper Todd Larsen, OSP’s EMS Coordinator, said, “We’re grateful to the OCCU Foundation and PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Foundation for this generous donation. About 40 to 50 patrol troopers a year perform CPR. Having an AED is a significant improvement when responding to cardiac incidents.”

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About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of nearly 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

September 30, 2026

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Sunset Bay State Park Beach health advisory issued Sept. 30

High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Sunset Bay State Park Beach in Coos County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff
• Sewer overflows
• Failing septic systems
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Sunset Bay State Park Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

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Media resources

Instead of conducting individual interviews for this announcement, ODHS will host a virtual media availability on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 1:30 to 1:50 p.m. Members of the media will have an opportunity to ask questions about SNAP work or activity rules and exemptions for college students. RSVP for the media availability by emailing Sara Campos at a.k.campos@odhs.oregon.gov">sara.k.campos@odhs.oregon.gov.

An statement from the ODHS interim Oregon Eligibility Partnership Director will be available after the event: https://vimeo.com/showcase/12330638

A Spanish-language video summarizing the key messages will also be available on Vimeo. Spanish-language media may request interviews or submit questions in Spanish by contacting Adriana Taylor at ma.A.Taylor@odhs.oregon.gov">Irma.A.Taylor@odhs.oregon.gov.

SALEM, Ore. — As students return to colleges and universities across Oregon this fall, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is reminding students about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

SNAP can help eligible students afford groceries while they pursue their education. Eligibility rules for students can be complicated, and students should not assume they do not qualify. Help is available from ODHS to understand the rules and apply.

Student eligibility

SNAP has special rules for students ages 18 through 49 who attend an institution of higher education at least half time (as defined by their school). These students are referred to as “students of higher education.” To be eligible for SNAP, students of higher education must meet at least one exemption.

Exemptions for students of higher education

In addition to regular SNAP rules, students of higher education are required to meet at least one student exemption to qualify for SNAP. The exemptions include students who:

• Participate in a state or federally funded work-study program.
• Work for pay an average of at least 20 hours per week.
• Are responsible for the care of a young child or meet certain requirements as a parent attending school.
• Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or unemployment benefits.
• Participate in certain employment and training programs, including SNAP Employment and Training or qualifying Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs.
• Are enrolled in an undergraduate course of study intended to be completed in four years or less that leads to employment. This can include students beginning at a community college and planning to transfer to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Other exemptions may also apply depending on a student’s circumstances.

“Students are working hard to build skills, complete their education and prepare for their future careers,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, interim director of the ODHS Oregon Eligibility Program. “SNAP can help eligible students afford food while they pursue those goals. The eligibility rules can be complicated, so we encourage students who need help to reach out rather than assume they don’t qualify.”

Benefits Navigators can help students find support

Students at Oregon’s public colleges and universities can also connect with a Benefits Navigator for help identifying resources that may support their basic needs.

Oregon funds a Benefits Navigator at every public college and university. Navigators work alongside students to understand their needs, develop strategies and connect them with campus, community, state and federal resources.

During the 2025–26 school year, Benefits Navigators served more than 30,000 students statewide and made more than 45,000 referrals to campus and community resources.

Work or activity rules

The SNAP rules for students of higher education are different from the federal work requirements for adults who are required to follow Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) work rules. ABAWD work rules apply to people who are 18 through 64 and do not receive SNAP with children under the age of 14.

Students of any kind (including higher education) enrolled in school at least half time are exempt from the ABAWD work requirements. However, students of higher education must first meet a student exemption to receive benefits.

Because several rules can affect eligibility, ODHS encourages students to ask for help rather than assume they do not qualify.

How to get help

Students interested in SNAP can:

• Contact a Benefits Navigator at their college or university
• Apply or manage benefits online at benefits.oregon.gov.
• Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075.
• Visit an ODHS office: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/office-finder.aspx
• Learn more at Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon: https://oregonhunger.org/snap-for-students/

If a student was previously denied SNAP because they did not meet the higher education student eligibility requirements, they can reapply if their student status or circumstances have changed.

New Oregon SNAP data webpage

ODHS has launched a new Oregon SNAP data webpage to make current SNAP participation data easier to find. The page includes monthly statewide and county-level data on the number of people and households receiving SNAP in Oregon.

The page will be updated regularly to provide partners, media, public officials and the public with a single source for current, verified SNAP caseload data.

Learn more at Oregon SNAP data: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/data/Pages/snap-data.aspx

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging three Oregon men with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Cody James VanWinkle aka COUNTUPCODY, 30, Gresham, and Kei-Jian Buckley, 32, Beaverton, had their initial appearances and arraignments today. Bruce Edward Jones, Jr. aka Juice, 30, Eugene, had his initial appearance and arraignment on September 24, 2026.

According to court documents, VanWinkle, Buckley, and Jones stole or obtained stolen checks and altered the payee line and dollar amount so that the check could be deposited by them instead of the intended payee. VanWinkle and Buckley formed an LLC called Pacific Swift Logistics, which was a sham business, to assist in their fraud. VanWinkle, Buckley, and Jones, along with others they recruited, deposited or transferred via wire the fraudulent and forged checks into the accounts controlled by VanWinkle, Buckley, or Jones. VanWinkle, Buckley, Jones, and others they recruited, withdrew, attempted to withdraw, or otherwise transferred the money before the financial institutions were able to flag the deposit as fraud and halt the withdrawals or transfers. When the recruits received money, they provided a portion of the stolen money to VanWinkle, Buckley, and Jones.

At their arraignments, VanWinkle and Buckley pleaded not guilty. Jones previously pleaded not guilty. All defendants are scheduled for trial November 24, 2026.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

IRS Criminal Investigations are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Sax is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Oregon physicians discuss 2026-2027 respiratory virus season at virtual media briefing Wednesday

ODHS will host a virtual media availability on Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 1:30 to 1:50 p.m. to share information about SNAP eligibility for higher education students, including work or activity rules and exemptions.

A news release with more details will be issued Wednesday morning.
 

Members of the media will have an opportunity to ask questions. Instead of conducting individual interviews for this announcement, ODHS is encouraging reporters interested in the topic to attend the media availability.

To RSVP and receive the meeting link, please email a.k.campos@odhs.oregon.gov">sara.k.campos@odhs.oregon.gov.

A recorded statement from the ODHS interim Oregon Eligibility Partnership Director and a Spanish-language video summarizing the key messages will be available after the event on Vimeo. Spanish-language media may request interviews or submit questions in Spanish by contacting Adriana Taylor at ma.A.Taylor@odhs.oregon.gov">Irma.A.Taylor@odhs.oregon.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power Foundation awards $12,000 to Siskiyou and Del Norte County organizations

YREKA AND CRESCENT CITY, Calif. (September 29, 2026) — The Pacific Power Foundation is proud to support four Siskiyou and Del Norte County organizations working to protect the environment and strengthen their communities.

Funding will help provide hands-on outdoor education for students, expand volunteer initiatives and support career training programs that create opportunities for the community.

“Across the region, these organizations are empowering their neighbors to learn new skills and care for the environment around them,” said Ryan Flynn, director of the Pacific Power Foundation and president of Pacific Power. “We are pleased to support this meaningful work and the positive impact it has on our communities.”

These funds were awarded through the Pacific Power Foundation’s Community Enhancement and Environmental Respect grant cycle. Organizations interested in applying for the Foundation’s next grant cycle, Safety and Wellness, may apply by December 15.

The following organizations in Northern California received funding during this grant cycle:

• Friends of Del Norte Fairgrounds in Crescent City received $5,000.
• The Hornbrook Community Association in Hornbrook received $2,000.
• The Redwood Parks Conservancy in Crescent City received $2,000.
• The Siskiyou Community Resource Collaborative received $3,000.
   

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About the Pacific Power Foundation:   

 
The PacifiCorp Foundation, doing business as the Pacific Power Foundation in Oregon, Washington and California, is one of the largest utility-endowed foundations in the United States. The foundation was created by PacifiCorp, an energy company that serves over 2 million customers across a diverse six-state region as Rocky Mountain Power (Utah, Wyoming and Idaho) and as Pacific Power (Oregon, Washington and California). The foundation’s mission, through charitable investments, is to support the growth and vitality of the communities served by Rocky Mountain Power and Pacific Power. Since it started in 1988, the PacifiCorp Foundation has awarded more than $80 million to nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit PacificPower.net/Foundation.  

JCSO Case 26-4161, CPPD Case 26-5423

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. - A drug dealer is in jail after multiple attempted eludes throughout Jackson County. The suspect, Ismael Garcia-Nava Jr., 32, of Medford, is lodged in the Jackson County Jail after crashing on September 19 while attempting to elude Central Point Police Department (CPPD). Garcia-Nava was originally arrested August 12 after crashing during an attempted elude with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO). Due to jail overcrowding he was force released on August 22 before a search uncovered the drugs and firearm in his vehicle.

Multiple search warrants revealed more than 100g of fentanyl, nearly 400g of heroin, 28g of methamphetamines, scales, packaging material, and a loaded firearm. Garcia-Nava’s charges include unlawful possession, manufacture, and delivery of controlled substances, felon in possession of a firearm, multiple counts of elude, and reckless driving.

On August 12, JCSO deputies attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding. The vehicle eluded into an industrial area, where the deputy lost sight of it. Medford Police Department (MPD) officers located the vehicle and it continued to elude, ultimately crashing on Elk Street in Medford.

MPD assisted JCSO in establishing a perimeter and deploying a drone. The driver, Garcia-Nava, was spotted fleeing on foot and jumping fences within the perimeter and taken into custody without further incident. Garcia-Nava was found to have an active warrant for an unlawful delivery of heroin parole violation. He was lodged at jail and his vehicle was taken under a seizure warrant for further investigation.

On August 23, JCSO deputies executed a search warrant on the suspect’s vehicle and located 41g of fentanyl, 26g of methamphetamine, 93g of marijuana, packaging, a digital scale, and a loaded semi-automatic handgun. JCSO filed the additional charges and entered a warrant for Garcia-Nava’s arrest.

On September 19, Garcia-Nava attempted to elude a CPPD traffic stop near Hanley Road and West Pine Street in Central Point.  After the pursuit was terminated, Garcia-Nava continued to drive recklessly through heavy traffic before crashing at the corner of North Front Street and Laurel Street. Garcia-Nava continued to elude on foot, discarding a shoulder bag before CPPD arrested him without incident.

On September 24, a search warrant was granted to search the discarded shoulder bag. Upon searching, CPPD officers located 396g of heroin, 64g of fentanyl, and 2.5g of meth as well as a digital scale, and drug packaging.

This case remains open. There is no further information available for release at this time.

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Portland, Ore., September 29, 2026 – From September 18 through September 27, communities across Oregon and Southwest Washington came together for SOLVE’s annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup. During a 10-day volunteer effort, 1,553 volunteers participated in 96 cleanup and restoration projects across 15 counties, contributing more than 3,100 hours of service. Projects took place in Clackamas, Clark, Clatsop, Coos, Curry, Deschutes, Jackson, Lane, Lincoln, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill counties.

Together, volunteers removed nearly 9,000 pounds of litter and debris, helping prevent pollution from traveling through local waterways to beaches and the Pacific Ocean. Volunteers also cleared over 9,450 square feet of invasive species, an area larger than three tennis courts, and mulched 300 plants to support healthier habitats and more resilient landscapes.

“Every year, Beach & Riverside Cleanup shows what is possible when people unite to care for the places they call home,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “This year, we saw that community action take many forms, from cleaning beaches and rivers to removing invasive plants and caring for neighborhood spaces. These local efforts add up to a meaningful regional impact.”

A Season of Environmental Action

The Beach & Riverside Cleanup showcased the range of community members, partners and projects that make SOLVE’s work possible across Oregon and Southwest Washington. From established cleanup initiatives to hands-on restoration projects, highlights from this year included:

Oregon Coast: Cleaning Up for People and Wildlife

Along the Oregon Coast, 25 cleanup events from Astoria/Warrenton to Gold Beach invited volunteers to remove litter and marine debris from beaches, shorelines and coastal recreation areas.

In Gold Beach, Paws for Nature combined a community beach cleanup with a dog walk, giving people and their four-legged companions a chance to care for the coastline.

Rivers Across the Region

River-focused projects gave volunteers opportunities to care for waterways and the communities connected to them. In Southern Oregon, volunteers joined projects across the Rogue Valley as part of Bear Creek Stewardship Day, caring for the Bear Creek watershed through litter removal, invasive plant removal and pollinator garden maintenance. Projects took place in Ashland, Talent, Phoenix and Medford, uniting neighbors, organizations, local partners and volunteers to care for the waterways and natural areas that connect community members throughout the valley.

These projects reflect the breadth of river-focused action taking place through Beach & Riverside Cleanup, from urban riverfronts and popular recreation areas to watershed and habitat restoration projects across the region.

Pick It Up, Bend! | September 27

Following its inaugural event in 2025, Pick It Up, Bend! returned for a second year at the Old Mill District. 42 volunteers spent the morning removing 175 pounds of litter from some of Bend’s most popular recreational spaces. The event also continued SOLVE’s partnership with the Johnson Ohana Foundation. SOLVE joined Jack Johnson’s concert in Bend as a Village Green partner, connecting a morning of local volunteer action with an evening focused on community and the environment.

Pick It Up, Bend! 2026 was made possible through the support from Old Mill District, Hayden Homes Theatre, Lithia & Driveway, and Cascade Disposal.

Pick It Up, Bend! is part of SOLVE’s growing Pick It Up! regional cleanup initiative, which unites residents, businesses and local organizations to improve shared public spaces city by city.

Thank You to Our Volunteers and Partners

SOLVE extends its gratitude to the volunteers, event leaders, business partners and organizations who made the 2026 Beach & Riverside Cleanup possible. Their time and effort helped make a visible difference across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

SOLVE’s 2026 Beach & Riverside Cleanup is proudly supported by Clean Water Services, Kaiser Permanente, Knife River, Keep America Beautiful, Metro, Oregon Department of Parks and Recreation, Owens Corning, Portco Packaging, Tillamook, Harper Houf Peterson Righellis Inc., and KOIN.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solve.org for more information or follow SOLVEPNW on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn. 

UNION COUNTY, Ore. (29 September 2026) – On Monday, September 28, 2026, at approximately 8:47 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 278 in Union County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Freightliner tow truck, operated by Dennis James Fenn (50) of La Grande, was stopped on the westbound shoulder near North Powder to hook up a disabled Peterbilt semi-truck and trailer, operated by Kevin Wesley Russell (46) of Leachville, Arkansas. A westbound Kenworth semi-truck and trailer, operated by Mark William Galyen (52) of Baker City, left the roadway, collided with the disabled semi-truck and trailer, and struck the driver of the disabled semi-truck, who was standing outside the vehicle.

The operator of the disabled Peterbilt semi-truck (Russell) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Kenworth semi-truck (Galyen) was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

The operator of the tow truck (Fenn) was reportedly not injured.

The crash remains under investigation.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the North Powder Rural Fire Protection District and the Oregon Department of Transportation.   
 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Portland, Ore., September 29, 2026 – From September 18 through September 27, communities across Oregon and Southwest Washington came together for SOLVE’s annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup. During a 10-day volunteer effort, 1,553 volunteers participated in 96 cleanup and restoration projects across 15 counties, contributing more than 3,100 hours of service. Projects took place in Clackamas, Clark, Clatsop, Coos, Curry, Deschutes, Jackson, Lane, Lincoln, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill counties.

Together, volunteers removed nearly 9,000 pounds of litter and debris, helping prevent pollution from traveling through local waterways to beaches and the Pacific Ocean. Volunteers also cleared over 9,450 square feet of invasive species, an area larger than three tennis courts, and mulched 300 plants to support healthier habitats and more resilient landscapes.

“Every year, Beach & Riverside Cleanup shows what is possible when people unite to care for the places they call home,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “This year, we saw that community action take many forms, from cleaning beaches and rivers to removing invasive plants and caring for neighborhood spaces. These local efforts add up to a meaningful regional impact.”

Oregon Coast: Cleaning Up for People and Wildlife

Along the Oregon Coast, 25 cleanup events from Astoria/Warrenton to Gold Beach invited volunteers to remove litter and marine debris from beaches, shorelines and coastal recreation areas.

Several projects connected cleanup efforts directly to wildlife protection. At Siltcoos Beach, volunteers helped remove marine debris near protected western snowy plover nesting habitat, while other coastal projects focused on keeping beaches and coastal recreation areas clean and safe for wildlife and visitors. In Gold Beach, Paws for Nature combined a community beach cleanup with a dog walk, giving people and their four-legged companions a chance to care for the coastline.

Thank You to Our Volunteers and Partners

SOLVE extends its gratitude to the volunteers, event leaders, business partners and organizations who made the 2026 Beach & Riverside Cleanup possible. Their time and effort helped make a visible difference across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

SOLVE’s 2026 Beach & Riverside Cleanup is proudly supported by Clean Water Services, Kaiser Permanente, Knife River, Keep America Beautiful, Metro, Oregon Department of Parks and Recreation, Owens Corning, Portco Packaging, Tillamook, Harper Houf Peterson Righellis Inc., and KOIN.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solve.org for more information or follow SOLVEPNW on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn. 

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.

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LAKEVIEW, Ore.— Trees cut to reduce wildfire risk on public lands will soon find a second life as firewood for local residents. The Bureau of Land Management has opened a new firewood collection area following the Fremont Fuels Management project, giving the public an opportunity to put previously cut hazardous fuels to use while supporting the project’s broader wildfire-prevention goals.

The project focused on reducing hazardous fuels in the Wildland-Urban Interface, where forests and communities meet. Crews cut and piled juniper trees and other conifers to reduce the amount of fuel available to a wildfire and help protect nearby communities.

“Firewood collection is one way people can benefit directly from fuels reduction work on their public lands,” said Jami Ludwig, Lakeview Field Office manager. “These trees were cut in the interest of public safety, and we’re grateful they can continue serving the public as firewood.”

Permits are for the collection of previously cut hazardous fuels generated during the Fremont project. In future years, crews will return to burn remaining material on-site as part of the project’s fuels-reduction objectives. Making it available for firewood collection allows the material to be put to use before the planned burn. Once prescribed burning occurs, the area will close to firewood gathering.

A Second Life for Fuels-Reduction Material

The Fremont project illustrates how fuels reduction can serve multiple purposes. Removing hazardous fuels helps create defensible space before wildfire arrives, while making suitable material available for firewood gives the public a chance to make use of trees that were removed as part of that work. The approach also reflects the broader goal of fuels management: reducing hazardous vegetation while finding practical ways to put public-land resources to work.

Picture Rock Pass Firewood Permits Discontinued

At the same time, the BLM is discontinuing firewood permit sales for the nearby Picture Rock Pass area. Existing permits for Picture Rock Pass will remain valid through Dec. 31, 2026. The project area is scheduled for a prescribed burn this winter. In preparation for the burn, the area will close to firewood collection.

How to Purchase a Firewood Permit Online

• Go to https://forestproducts.blm.gov/
• Click on Oregon, select the Lakeview Field Office, then choose Fuelwood.
• Complete and submit the application.
• Enter your credit/debit card information. Once processed, print your permit.

You will receive an email containing maps, stipulations, load tags, and documentation required for safe firewood collection on BLM lands. All sales are final; no refunds will be issued.

Firewood Permit Terms for the Fremont Fuels Reduction Project

Firewood permits for the Fremont Fuels Reduction project area are designated solely for personal use. The permit fee is $1 per cord, subject to change, with a minimum purchase requirement of four cords and a maximum limit of ten cords per residence per calendar year.

Collection is only authorized within designated 75‑foot and 300‑foot road buffers, depending on road type, within the Fremont Fuels Reduction units and only on Bureau of Land Management administered property. These areas are shown on the maps provided with the permit. All material available for removal have already been cut by project crews; cutting live trees or snags is strictly prohibited.

Some designated firewood collection areas are situated adjacent to privately owned lands. This permit does not authorize entry onto private property for any purpose, including access to or collection of firewood. Permit holders are responsible for ensuring they do not trespass and must remain strictly within areas administered by the Bureau of Land Management.

Woodcutters must review and follow all stipulations included with the permit, including vehicle use restrictions, fire season industrial precautions levels (IFPL and Personal Use Restrictions), pile handling requirements, winter range closures, and mandatory documentation retention. It is the woodcutter’s responsibility to comply with all current fire restrictions and regulations.

General Reminders

Always carry your permit and map while collecting firewood. Remain on existing roads, use caution to prevent wildfires, and ensure all activity occurs on authorized BLM lands. A commercial firewood permit is required for individuals wishing to collect wood for resale or exceed personal-use limits.

For more information or to purchase a permit in person, please contact the Lakeview Field Office at (541) 947‑6100.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

CORRECTION: The Medford regional office reopening time has been updated.

MEDFORD, Oregon—The Oregon Department of Revenue’s Medford regional office at 3613 Aviation Way, Suite 102 will be closed at noon, Monday, October 5, 2026 and all day Tuesday, October 6, 2026 for staff training.

A secure drop box is available for taxpayers to deliver any necessary payments or documents. Office staff will mail receipts directly to customers.

The Medford office will office will reopen at 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

Additionally, district offices in Bend, Gresham, Portland, and Eugene and the department’s main office in Salem will also be closed October 6, 2026.

Agency contact centers for most general inquiries will also be closed on October 6, 2026; though contact centers handling debt collection or payroll and withholding inquiries will remain open.

The Department of Revenue continues to expand features available through Revenue Online. Individuals can view letters sent to them by the department, initiate appeals, make payments, and submit questions. Visit Revenue Online to learn more.

To get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make payments, visit www.oregon.gov/dor or email questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

CORRECTION: The Bend regional office reopening time has been updated.

BEND, Oregon—The Oregon Department of Revenue’s Bend regional office at 951 SW Simpson Avenue, Suite 100 will be closed at noon, Monday, October 5, 2026 and all day Tuesday, October 6, 2026 for staff training.

A secure drop box is available for taxpayers to deliver any necessary payments or documents. Office staff will mail receipts directly to customers.

The Bend office will reopen at 1:30 p.m., on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

Additionally, district offices in Eugene, Gresham, Portland, and Medford and the department’s main office in Salem will also be closed October 6, 2026.

Agency contact centers for most general inquiries will also be closed on October 6, 2026; though contact centers handling debt collection or payroll and withholding inquiries will remain open.

The Department of Revenue continues to expand features available through Revenue Online. Individuals can view letters sent to them by the department, initiate appeals, make payments, and submit questions. Visit Revenue Online to learn more.

To get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make payments, visit www.oregon.gov/dor or email questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

EUGENE, Oregon—The Oregon Department of Revenue’s Eugene regional office at 1600 Valley River Drive, Suite 310 will be closed Tuesday, October 6, 2026 for staff training.

A secure drop box is available for taxpayers to deliver any necessary payments or documents. Office staff will mail receipts directly to customers.

The Eugene office will return to normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

Additionally, district offices in Bend, Gresham, Portland, and Medford and the department’s main office in Salem will also be closed October 6, 2026.

Agency contact centers for most general inquiries will also be closed on October 6, 2026; though contact centers handling debt collection or payroll and withholding inquiries will remain open.

The Department of Revenue continues to expand features available through Revenue Online. Individuals can view letters sent to them by the department, initiate appeals, make payments, and submit questions. Visit Revenue Online to learn more.

To get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make payments, visit www.oregon.gov/dor or email questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

Salem, OR — Today, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) published the annual maximum rent increases allowed by law for calendar year 2027.

The maximum allowable rent increase percentage in 2027 for tenancies subject to ORS 90.324(b) is 10%.

Per ORS 90.324, “no later than September 30th of each year, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services shall calculate the maximum annual rent increase percentage allowed for the following calendar year:

• For tenancies subject to ORS 90.600 (1) in facilities with more than 30 spaces, as six percent.”
• “For tenancies subject to ORS 90.600 (1) in facilities with 30 or fewer spaces or for tenancy types subject to ORS 90.323, percentage is the lesser of:
  • Ten percent; or
  • Seven percent plus Consumer Price Index (CPI).”

To view the methodology, calculation and Consumer Price Index data, refer to the Maximum Annual Rent Increase 2027 (Excel file).

The allowable rent increase percentage for calendar year 2026 was 9.5%.

Questions related to the administration of the maximum allowable rent increase and other landlord-tenant concerns can be directed to Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).

"Facilities" is defined as manufactured dwellings and marinas.

GILLIAM COUNTY, Ore. (28 September 2026) – On Sunday, September 27, 2026, at approximately 12:23 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 140 in Gilliam County.

The preliminary investigation indicated, a white Toyota Avalon, operated by Adhishwar Ramanathan (24) of Umatilla, was traveling eastbound on I-84 near Arlington when it left the lane of travel for an unknown reason and struck the end of the guardrail. The vehicle came to rest facing westbound in the eastbound lane.

The operator of the Toyota (Ramanathan) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office, the North Gilliam County Rural Fire Protection District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.   

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

SALEM, Ore. – Fifteen Oregon arts organizations will receive $10,000 grants to strengthen K-12 arts education for the upcoming year through the Oregon Arts Commission’s Arts Learning grant program.

“Through this grant program, thousands of students will have an opportunity to engage with the arts in the classroom,” said Tiff Harker, Arts Education and Grants Coordinator. “Arts organizations partner with schools and students greatly benefit from the enhancement of cognitive skills, creative problem-solving and self-empowerment.”

Arts Learning grants support projects that provide K-12 students with responsive learning opportunities in and through the arts. These projects also foster the exchange of knowledge between artists and educators and positively impact the achievement, skills and attitudes of learners. Learn more about the program on our website.

Applications were evaluated by a community review panel. The panel’s funding recommendations were then approved by the Oregon Arts Commission.

Funds for this grant program are provided by the state of Oregon general fund through its support of the Oregon Arts Commission and by a federal grant to the Arts Commission by the National Endowment for the Arts.

FY2027 Arts Learning Grants Awardees:

Pendleton Arts Center, Pendleton
To support the sequential learning, over a four-month period, of book and paper arts skills, including papermaking, printmaking, paper engineering and book making for 250+ kindergarteners at the Pendleton Early Learning Center, culminating in a public reception for community members and students' families.

Art Center East, La Grande
To support offering eight residency weeks of the Artists in Rural Schools Improv Program to four of the eight Title 1 elementary schools in Union County, blending sequential arts and social and emotional learning for underserved rural youth.

Future Prairie, Portland
To support a six-month sequential vocal arts learning project for students in grades 6-12 across rural coastal Oregon. Produced by Future Prairie and co-developed with educators at Fire Mountain School (Arch Cape, Clatsop County) and Neah-Kah-Nie High School (Rockaway Beach, Tillamook County), and led by Portland Opera tenor Emmanuel Onry Henreid, monthly intensive workshops will take place at the partner schools and a culminate with a public recital.

Heidi Duckler Dance Theatre Northwest, Portland
To support Heidi Duckler Dance Northwest's teaching artists with creative movement classes for children Pre-K through seventh grade, fostering creativity, confidence, physical coordination and social-emotional growth and culminating in a student performance for families, school staff and the broader school community.

#Instaballet, Eugene
To support #instaballet's onsite, accessible youth workshops in Life Skills classrooms across Springfield and Eugene public schools in partnership with the Lane Education Service District.

Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, Joseph
To support arts education in rural, economically distressed Wallowa County, the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture seeks funding for three interconnected programs: the Charter Art Program, afterschool arts education and the Youth Arts Festival that together provide K-12 students with high-quality, professional arts instruction.

Native Performing Arts Network, Hillsboro
To support Native Performing Arts Network's expansion of its arts education programming with Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA)'s Many Nations Academy, with McDermitt Combined School, serving Oregon residents of the McDermitt Paiute and Shoshone Tribe, and adding programing with other Oregon Tribal nations.

Sitka Center for Art and Ecology, Otis
To support a Rural Photography Outreach initiative that expands access to Sitka's proven photography curriculum, helping K-8 students in underserved rural communities explore creative expression and visual storytelling through photography.

The Open Arts Center, Bend
To support equitable access to arts education for students at Bear Creek Elementary, a bilingual Title I school in Bend that recently lost dedicated arts instruction, The Open Arts Center will partner with school educators to provide three sequential six-week artist residencies during the 2026-2027 school year, engaging approximately 75-90 students in hands-on visual, performing and interdisciplinary arts experiences led by professional teaching artists. It will culminate with public showcases of student learning.

Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, Newport
To support sequential arts learning for sixth grade students at Newport Middle School, a Title 1, rural school in economically distressed Lincoln County, while providing a paid opportunity for local teaching artists. Due to budget cuts, Newport Middle School has just lost its art program. Through this project, Oregon Coast Council for the Arts will help fill the gap, bringing mediums of art instruction to the school, including ceramics, painting, print making and fiber arts.

Oregon East Symphony, Pendleton
To support 45 hours of sequential, standards-based afterschool classical strings instruction (violin, viola, cello) for 4th and 5th grade students in the rural Pendleton School District, providing foundational music literacy, ensemble experience and equitable access to instrumental music education.

Parrott Creek Child & Family Services Inc., Oregon City
To support the expansion of our successful Tilt/Shift Photography Program at our residential facility. The program engages at-risk youth in photography as a means to connect with their creativity and self-expression, providing educational and professional opportunities and bolstering coping skills.

SCRAP Creative Reuse, Portland
To support the next chapter of Mend to Extend, SCRAP's established mending and textile-arts program. The effort will deepen our ongoing work with returning school partners into a sequential, iterative year in which cohorts of students learn in and through the arts, building real mending and sewing skills while developing their own creative voice and aesthetic through free, hands-on sessions.

Sticks and Stones Studio, Jacksonville
To support the reintegration of K-5 art programming into the Ruch Outdoor Community School’s lasting curriculum through the transformation of their existing classroom space into a self-sustaining Teaching for Artistic Behavior studio. This will equip students and educators with the creative autonomy and artistic thinking skills to thrive independently, ensuring the program continues long after direct nonprofit involvement ends.

Theatre 33 at Willamette University, Salem
To support free art, design and animation workshops at Title I and rural high schools in economically distressed regions of Oregon, providing sequential arts education and meaningful creative professional development opportunities to approximately 150 students grade 9-12.

About the Oregon Arts Commission

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Commissioners appointed by the Governor establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. Nested within Business Oregon, the Arts Commission works to support the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state. The Arts Commission is supported with funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, as well as by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Learn more at oregonartscommission.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

UPDATE: TONY HAS BEEN LOCATED SAFELY.

CASE: 26-25755

NAME: Tony Fletcher

AGE: 14

SEX: Male

RACE: Caucasian

HEIGHT: 5'10"

WEIGHT: 220

HAIR: Light Brown/Blonde

EYES: Blue

INFORMATION: Tony was last seen on September 19th around 11:00pm on Caves Highway. Tony was wearing blue jeans, a light blue shirt, and a white baseball hat. Tony likes to hang out at Jubilee Park, and may be in a white Mazda sedan.

If you have any information on Tony's whereabouts, please contact the Josephine County Sheriff's Office at 541-474-5123.

Independent, provider-led network across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho confirms its 2027 carrier lineup well ahead of Open Enrollment, as insurer exits and shifting contracts reshape coverage nationwide.

OREGON – As Open Enrollment approaches on October 15, Praxis Health is confirming which insurance carriers it will be in-network with for 2027, ahead of the usual timeline. The move comes amid a wave of disruption across the health insurance industry, marked by payer exits and shifting contracts among both national and regional insurers. Praxis Health's goal is straightforward: give patients the time and clarity they need to choose coverage that keeps their care team in place, rather than leaving them to navigate a surprise mid-year.

Recent examples include Providence's move to wind down most of its health insurance business, Health Net's exit from parts of the market, and continued network narrowing among national carriers. Employers, health systems, and patients across Oregon are all navigating similar decisions right now. Against that backdrop, Praxis Health chose to finalize its 2027 network today rather than wait.

“Insurance is changing all around us and we'd rather not wait for the market to settle before making a clear decision about our insurance network. Every insurer we work with has real strengths and real limitations. We cannot control those factors, but what we can control is being decisive, transparent, and early, so our patients have enough time to plan”

— Dr. Jessica Morgan, Chief Medical Officer, Praxis Health

No insurance partner is perfect. Network strength varies by community, coverage differs between Medicare Advantage and commercial plans, and factors like prior authorization and referral approval all shape a patient's real-world access to care. Praxis Health weighed all of these factors before finalizing this decision, and its goal, and its obligation to patients, is to ensure every decision supports access to care.

The shift is landing differently in every community Praxis Health serves, and local providers are already navigating it with their own patients. In Portland, Chris Aichele, ARNP, has been direct about what network changes mean in daily practice.

"I've had patients lose access to specialists they had been seeing for years. Not because their condition changed but because their insurance plan no longer is contracted with their specialist. I've had planned surgeries get cancelled when a specialist and insurance company can't negotiate with one another and the contract ends with little notice. Leaving these decisions until the last minute hurts patients. We want our patients choosing their next plan on their own terms, with enough time and information to do it right.”

— Chris Aichele, ARNP, Pacific Medical Group North Portland, Praxis Health

Praxis Health CEO Dan McCarthy echoed that commitment. “We built this organization to be a reliable primary care leader in this state, and we want to align with insurers who are equally invested in a sustainable care network for our communities. That means finalizing our carrier lineup now, ahead of open enrollment, so our patients have enough time to make an informed decision about their healthcare.”

Patients enrolled in an affected plan will receive direct notice, access to a dedicated support line, and in-clinic help evaluating their options. Medicare Open Enrollment runs October 15 through December 7; ACA marketplace and employer benefits enrollment periods follow later this fall, and Medicaid and CCO members should also confirm their coverage with their clinic. Because an insurance carrier's own provider directory isn't always current, Praxis Health recommends checking GoPraxisHealth.com/insurance-updates for the most accurate 2027 coverage information rather than relying on a carrier's listing alone. Medicare Advantage members will be presented with the full range of in-network plans; Praxis Health does not recommend a specific replacement plan and encourages members to consult a licensed insurance broker, a SHIBA/SHIP counselor, or 1-800-MEDICARE for personalized guidance.

Praxis Health's focus is on making this easier for our patients. Patients have the final say in choosing their own insurance and care team; our job is simply to give them the time and information to choose well.

We're Here to Help

Praxis Health will continue to be in-network with Aetna, Cigna, First Choice, PacificSource, Moda, and Regence BlueCross BlueShield in 2027, with additional partnerships expected to be announced soon. United Healthcare is available in Washington, but negotiations are currently ongoing for Oregon & Idaho and termination could occur if an agreement is not reached. Patients with questions can call their clinic, for a full list of our clinics, click here or visit GoPraxisHealth.com/insurance-updates.

Providence and Health Net are no longer offering insurance in 2027.

About Praxis Health

Praxis Health is a provider-led, independent primary care organization with more than 30 clinic locations across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Built on the belief that independent, whole-person primary care leads to better outcomes and stronger communities, Praxis Health partners with patients, employers, and reliable insurance carriers to deliver consistent, relationship-based care. Learn more at GoPraxisHealth.com.

CORRECTION:

A total of 1,706 notices were sent beginning Sept. 16 to SNAP households that need to provide updated income information. The information below has been updated. ODHS apologizes for the error.  

SALEM, Ore. — As part of ongoing efforts to improve accuracy of benefits, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is asking some people who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits to provide updated income information by the end of the month.

ODHS began mailing notices Sept. 16. About 1,706 people will receive the notices by the end of the week. As of August 30, 2026, there are 639,261 individuals in Oregon who receive SNAP.

If you received a notice, please read it and respond by the deadline listed in the notice. Providing the requested information gives an ODHS eligibility worker a chance to review your case and make sure your benefits are correct.

If ODHS does not receive the requested information by September 28, your benefits may be reduced or your case may close, beginning with October benefits.

“We know SNAP rules and reporting requirements can be complicated, and receiving a notice asking for more information can be concerning,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, Oregon Eligibility Partnership interim director. “The most important thing people can do is respond so that our eligibility staff can review the case, answer questions and make sure people receive the benefits they are eligible for.”

What to do if you receive a notice

If you receive a Missing Information notice:

• Read the notice carefully. It explains what information ODHS needs and when you need to respond.
• Provide the requested income verification as soon as possible, by Sept. 28. If you do not respond by Sept. 28 you should still contact ODHS, a worker may be able to help.
• Respond even if you think the information is wrong. An ODHS eligibility worker can review the information with you and help resolve differences.
• Contact ODHS if you have questions or need help.
• You do not need to contact your employer to respond to the notice. Send the information requested by ODHS.
• Do not ignore the notice. If ODHS does not receive a response, SNAP and TANF benefits, if applicable, will close on the date listed in the notice.

ODHS expects to conduct additional income checks over the next 12 to 15 months. The timing of future checks is still being finalized.

Why ODHS is doing the income check

ODHS is checking income to help families receive the right amount of benefits at the right time. The check is one of many steps Oregon is taking to improve accuracy and to lower the SNAP payment error rate: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/news/pages/snap-per.aspx.

This check compares income reported to ODHS with earnings information available through The Work Number, an employment and income verification database.

Some SNAP households received a notice because the income reported to ODHS was below 130 percent of the federal poverty level, while information from The Work Number showed that the household’s income may be at or above that level. If a household also receives TANF, the notice includes information about both SNAP and TANF.

Receiving a notice does not automatically mean someone will lose their benefits. People who receive a notice should provide the requested income information by September 28 so ODHS can review their case and determine whether their benefits should change.

How to Get Help

You can talk with an ODHS eligibility worker if you have questions or want help understanding the notice.

• Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075
• Use the ODHS office finder to find a local office.

ODHS also has information online about what SNAP changes need to be reported and how to report them. The page explains different ways to report changes and includes guidance for reporting income and other household changes.

Learn more about reporting SNAP changes:
https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/Pages/report-snap-changes.aspx#how

People do not need to contact their employer to respond to the notice. They should submit the information requested by ODHS.

GILLIAM COUNTY, Ore.  (24 September 2026) – On Thursday, September 24, 2026, at approximately 6:49 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a serious injury crash involving a semi-truck and passenger car on Interstate 84 near milepost 137.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Freightliner semi‑truck towing triple trailers, operated by Edwin Alexander Gomez (32) of Pasco, Washington, was traveling eastbound near Arlington when it left the lane of travel for an unknown reason and struck the center median. The Freightliner went through the median into the westbound lane of the interstate. A white Ford Edge, operated by Pratapa Reddy Koppula (51) of West Hills, California, was traveling westbound when it was struck by one of the Freightliner trailers and rolled over.

The Freightliner and one trailer came to rest on top of the center median. Two of the trailers came to rest fully blocking the westbound lanes and the on-ramp to I-84 westbound from Arlington. The Ford Edge came to rest on the opposite side of the guardrail on the right shoulder.

The operator of the Ford (Koppula) was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

The operator of the Freightliner (Gomez) was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

The Freightliner passenger, Ashleigh Darlene Krupkat (26) of Kennewick, Washington, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

Gomez was arrested on charges of DUII, reckless driving, recklessly endangering another person, and Assault 4. Once medically cleared, Gomez was lodged at the Northern Oregon Regional Corrections Facility (NORCOR) in The Dalles.

The westbound lanes of I‑84 were impacted for approximately eight hours to facilitate the removal of hazardous materials, the on‑scene investigation, vehicle recovery, debris removal from the damaged median, and repairs to the center median.

OSP was assisted by the Gilliam County Sheriff's Office, North Gilliam Medic, North Gilliam Rural Fire Protection District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of nearly 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

Sent for Jackson County Emergency Management, media contact info below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Jackson County Emergency Management Invites Community to Get “Winter Ready” at Free Safety & Preparedness Fair

Free, family-friendly event will feature emergency equipment, activities, giveaways, and practical ways to prepare for winter storms and other emergencies.

Central Point, Ore. — Jackson County Emergency Management (JCEM) invites community members of all ages to Winter Ready: A Safety & Preparedness Fair for Families & Kids on Saturday, November 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Mace Watchable Wildlife Center at the Jackson County Expo, 21 Peninger Road in Central Point.

The event is free and open to the public.

Following an active wildfire season across Southern Oregon, Winter Ready shifts the focus toward the hazards that come with the colder months. Emergency responders, nonprofits, and community partners will come together for a hands-on event designed to help families prepare for winter storms, flooding, power outages, evacuations, and other emergencies.

“As wildfire season winds down, our preparedness work doesn’t stop,” said Delaney Richmond, Jackson County Emergency Manager. “Winter brings a different set of hazards to Jackson County, and this event is about helping families understand those risks and take practical steps to prepare.”

Attendees can expect:

​

• Touch-a-Truck emergency equipment displays
• Live preparedness demonstrations
• Opportunities to meet local first responders
• Practical information about flooding and winter storms
• Games and activities for kids and families
• Giveaways and preparedness resources

“Disasters can look very different from season to season,” said Jackson County Emergency Manager Delaney Richmond, “Knowing what you’ll do during an outage, having supplies ready, understanding local hazards, and knowing where to get reliable information can make a real difference when a storm hits.”

Event Details

Winter Ready: A Safety & Preparedness Fair for Families & Kids
Saturday, November 7, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Mace Watchable Wildlife Center
Jackson County Expo
21 Peninger Road
Central Point, OR 97502

Admission: FREE

Jackson County Emergency Management is producing the event with support from Rogue Valley Community Organizations Active in Disaster (RV COAD) and participating community partners.

Media Contact

Delaney Richmond
Jackson County Emergency Management
Emergency Manager
jacksonem@jacksoncountyor.gov
541-774-6790

Embargoed until Friday, September 25, 2026, 1:30 p.m.

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, will announce Linnaea Funk Morales as one of Oregon’s 17 2026-27 Regional Teachers of the Year! Morales Funk teaches at Talent Elementary in Talent.  

Media members are invited to the surprise announcement Talent Elementary School on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 1:30 p.m., when Funk Morales will be honored in an all-school assembly.  

Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon. Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K-12.

“Linnaea exemplifies outstanding instructional practices through her unwavering commitment to students, colleagues, and the profession,” a colleague wrote in Funk Morales’ nomination. “She is a passionate advocate for bilingual learners and consistently centers students’ languages, identities, and lived experiences as essential assets in the classroom.” 

In her nomination, Funk Morales notes, “My belief [is] that strong relationships are the foundation of both culture and learning.” She further explains, “By intentionally designing projects that engage real community partners, provide authentic purposes for academic skills, and center student agency, I work to dissolve the traditional boundaries of the classroom. In doing so, I help students build not only academic competence, but also empathy, responsibility, and a lasting sense of belonging within their community.” 

Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development. 

“We are so proud of this year’s Regional Teachers of the Year who consistently demonstrate hard work, build strong relationships, empower their students, and create classroom environments that lead to student success,” said ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams. “As mentors, advocates, and community leaders, they show us all that the best is on display in schools large and small, rural and urban, from the first years of schooling to the final preparations for a student’s next steps beyond high school. We thank them for their inspiration and can’t wait to see what they do next.” 

Thanks to a partnership with Oregon Lottery, each Regional Teacher of the Year will receive a $1,000 award and is considered a semi-finalist for the 2026-27 Oregon Teacher of the Year, which will be announced later this fall.

Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, over $1 million of Oregon Lottery funding went to the Phoenix-Talent School District, and over $16.5 million went to Jackson County. 

“These are exceptional educators who inspire students daily across Oregon,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are honored to celebrate their dedication and the lasting impact they have on our students and families.”   

On Friday, September 25, 2026, once all 17 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website. 

Do you know an outstanding teacher? Please nominate them as the 2027-28 Oregon Teacher of the Year by visiting oregonteacheroftheyear.org. 

Shortly following the event, photos from the regional surprise announcement for Funk Morales will be available HERE.  

Thanks to ODE’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the 2026-27 Oregon Teacher of the Year will receive a $10,000 cash prize (with an additional $5,000 going to their school) and serves as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers.