Oregon Beach News, Wednesday 10/7 – Florence Getting Attention From Travel Writers Across the Country, 2 More Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Public Meetings This Week & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com

Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Oregon Beach Weather

Small Craft Advisory Issued: 1:41 AM Oct. 7, 2026 – National Weather Service

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 PM PDT THURSDAY...

* WHAT...North winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt and steep wind-driven seas 6 to 9 ft.

* WHERE...All areas.

* WHEN..From 11 PM Sunday to 11 PM PDT Monday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds and/or steep seas could capsize or damage smaller vessels.

* View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks

Here’s the overview of our weather outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

Please pay close attention to the weather conditions across the state.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has 2 more public meetings this week to receive input on the 2027 Recreational Bottomfish and Pacific Halibut Sessions

ODFW staff will be hosting in person meetings October 5, 6, 7, and 8 to discuss the 2027 recreational bottomfish and Pacific halibut seasons with anglers. The meeting on October 8 will be a hybrid meeting, available for folks to participate in person or remotely (online), for those unable to attend any of the meetings in person.

The meetings will be held in four locations:

• Tillamook: Monday, October 5, 6-8 pm at the ODFW Office, 4907 3rd St., Tillamook
• Brookings: Tuesday, October 6, 6-8 pm at the Port Meeting Room at the Port of Brookings, 16330 Lower Harbor Road
• North Bend: Wednesday, October 7, 6-8 pm at the North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Avenue
• Newport: Thursday, October 8, 6-8 pm at ODFW Marine Resources Program Conference Room, 2040 SE Marine Science Drive (also available online, info below)

Discussion on the bottomfish fishery will reflect on how the fishery has progressed in 2026. We will also be discussing bag limits and season structure for 2027, including the potential allowance of limited retention of yelloweye rockfish now that that species has been declared rebuilt by the National Marine Fisheries Service.

Discussion on the Pacific halibut fishery will focus on the proposals that will be adopted at the September meeting of the Pacific Fisheries Management Council for further public review.

ODFW staff will have the meeting materials posted on the recreational bottomfish and Pacific halibut webpages by Friday, October 2.

The online meeting information for October 8:

Microsoft Teams Need help? Join the meeting Meeting ID: 211 115 957 295 009 Passcode: fe2Cm72o

Dial in by phone — +1 503-446-4951,,525043499# United States, Portland Phone conference ID: 525 043 499#

ODFW provides reasonable accommodation upon request, including assistive listening devices, sign language interpreters, and materials in large print or audiotape. To request accommodation, please contact the Marine Resource Program at 541-867-4741 (voice) or 541-867-0311 (fax) at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

Florence Getting Attention From Travel Writers Across the Country

The community has been featured this summer by WorldAtlas, MSN, The Oregonian and several travel publications, earning recognition as one of the Pacific Northwest’s best small towns, most hospitable destinations and most charming coastal communities.

What the Experts Say About Florence: https://florencechamber.com/articles/post/what-the-experts-say-about-florence/

Florence Area Chamber President and CEO Bettina Hannigan says the coverage highlights not just individual attractions, but Florence as a destination. The recognition comes as Florence prepares for the Coastal Canine Classic October 16th through 18th and Circles in the Sand October 24th and 25th.

Calling all dog lovers from across the Pacific Northwest, Northern California, the Southwest—and beyond! It’s time to unleash the fun! Pack the treats, grab the leash, load up your favorite four-legged travel buddy, and point your paws toward Florence, Oregon, for the inaugural Coastal Canine Classic, October 16–18!

This rain-or-shine weekend is built for dogs and the people wrapped around their little paws. And don’t worry—this is not a hoity-toity dog show. No fancy pedigree, perfect posture, or championship prance required. It’s three days of plain dog-gone fun in Oregon’s Coastal Playground!

Get ready to: Show off your pup’s personality Compete for canine bragging rights Try pawsome activities and contests Sniff out treasures from great vendors Meet new furry friends and their humans Enjoy a tail-wagging Florence getaway Fetch your event tickets Snag a limited VIP experience Register your dog before spaces are gone Book a pet-friendly place to stay

VIP availability and dog participation spaces are limited, so don’t paws too long. You’d be barking mad to miss the fur-st Coastal Canine Classic! Tickets, dog registration, and event details: https://bit.ly/2026CoastalCanineClassic

The annual ‘Circles in the Sand’ beach labyrinth event. 2026 dates are October 24th & 25th with the walk through at 5pm. There’s a kite festival simultaneously with this event.

Circles in the Sand in Florence, 2026. Join us for a sunset celebration of shoreline rhythm and community. See the full post and join us on the sand: https://wix.to/3XAbp3c

Florence Police helped reunite two missing children with Oregon Department of Human Services custody after receiving a Flock camera alert tied to a vehicle connected to the case.

The alert came Saturday morning, October 3rd, leading officers to stop the vehicle in the Bi-Mart parking lot. Two adults associated with the children were contacted, but the juveniles were not with them at the time. Police say after speaking with officers, an adult male initially said the children were not in the area, but later agreed to turn them over.

Around 11 a.m., 10-year-old Lilly Hunt and 8-year-old Miley Hunt were brought to the Florence Police Department, where DHS Child Welfare workers took custody of the children as ordered by the court. The children had been reported missing by Eugene Police and DHS on October 2nd and were believed to have been taken by a non-custodial parent.

Governor Tina Kotek and Republican Senator Christine Drazan face off for their 2nd debate tonight 10/7

Drazan and Kotek are set to debate two more times before the Nov. 3 election. KOBI and Southern Oregon University will hold a debate in Medford on October 7.

KOBI, which has partnered with Southern Oregon University for the event, will livestream the debate. It’s scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.

The pair will meet again Oct. 13 in Bend, at a debate hosted by KTVZ and The Source.

UO partnered with KVAL, the Oregon Journalism Project and Lookout Eugene-Springfield for the first debate on 10/1 and it was live streamed and on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNCfGur9iwk

Tongue Point Job Corps Seamanship Program Loses Union Contract

After decades of partnership, the Management and Training Corporation has cut its contract with the union which staffs the instructors at the Tongue Point Job Corps Center’s Seamanship Training Program.

The for-profit contractor, MTC, is the company which has been contracted by the U.S. Department of Labor to oversee the Tongue Point Job Corps Center and its seamanship program. For decades, sub-contracted under MTC, the seamanship program at Tongue Point has been run by the Inlandboatsman Union of the Pacific — that is, until October.

On Sept. 14, members of the union, along with Job Corps students and instructors, were notified by MTC that the company’s contract with the union would be terminated and their last day with the program would be Sept. 30.

According to IBU President Robert Estrada, the reason behind MTC parting ways with the union comes down to three major factors which compounded on one another: 1) Changes in course curriculum standards issued by the National Maritime Center; 2) The thwarted attempt by the Trump administration to shut down Job Corps; 3) The COVID-19 pandemic.

According to students, instructors and union officials, there are no certified instructors available to teach Job Corps seamanship students the skills they signed on to learn.

When the Covid-19 pandemic hit in 2020, the number of students in the seamanship program decreased and the pre-pandemic numbers have not come back. Following this, the National Maritime Center increased their scrutiny of the curriculum and the approval process became more difficult for maritime schools across the country, according to Estrada.

One example is when two certifications were denied approval by the U.S. Coast Guard. According to Krystal Wolfe, a Coast Guard spokesperson, the certifications for QMED-Junior Engineer and Able Seaman-Limited expired at the Tongue Point Job Corps Center after the center was unable to satisfy federal training regulations.

The program approvals were initially set to lapse earlier, on Oct. 31, 2023, but the NMC granted extensions through Feb. 29, 2024. According to Wolfe, on March 12, 2024, the NMC issued a formal Notice of Intent to Suspend, stating a final compliance date of April 30, 2024. The NMC declined further extension requests, allowing program approvals to officially expire and close on April 30, 2024.

“Despite extensive guidance from the NMC spanning from April 2023 to April 2024, Tongue Point did not resolve critical deficiencies in instructor qualifications, training equipment, underway sea service, curriculum delivery and examinations,” Wolfe said.

Tongue Point instructor Mat Thompson said the union put hundreds of man hours into revising the program’s curriculum to meet the NMC’s standards, and even sent their new curriculum to the Coast Guard for review.

In the midst of it all, the federal government shut down in October of 2025. Since then, Tongue Point has not heard back about the approval of their curriculum, said Thompson. Thompson’s last day with the Job Corps was Sept. 30.

However, according to Wolfe, “the approval process is not closed. The Tongue Point Job Corps Center can choose to submit a package at any time for Coast Guard review.” But, in order to receive approval, she said “a package must demonstrate full adherence to federal safety and curriculum standards.”

According to Estrada, the union is doing everything it can to reestablish the relationship with MTC and the Job Corps.

“We are still trying to work out a way to present ourselves as the partners we’ve always been — as the collaborative support structure — and that has always made Tongue Point a great school,” Estrada said. “We’re talking to various politicians and various stakeholders to see if there’s an avenue to renew that relationship, to refresh it, because I understand that this school — and MTC — was under some pressure, because of things that were out of their control.”

Congressional intervention halted the Trump administration’s push to dismantle the Job Corps at the beginning of Trump’s second term in the Oval Office. However, the initial attempt to close the program had already triggered widespread repercussions.

For one thing, according to Estrada — and corroborated by Thompson — the program experienced major budget cuts. In addition, Job Corps students were sent back to their homes across the country.

“Donald Trump (announced) that (the) Job Corps was going to be shut down … so we literally were putting people on buses,” Estrada said. “The students from Hawaii were put on airplanes. They all went home, not just (the) Tongue Point Job Corps school, across the country this was happening. … (Then) there was congressional intervention to say, ‘Hey, wait a minute, you can’t do this by caveat. You can’t just shut it down. This is a congressionally approved program.'”

According to Estrada, the Trump administration backed off over time — but not all the students came back to Tongue Point.

The seamanship program is the largest program at the Tongue Point Job Corps Center, with roughly 60 students enrolled in the program. However, according to one student who asked not to be named, that number is only half the capacity of what the program originally had before the Trump administration began putting the corps on the chopping block. The student requested anonymity because he said he is part of a group of students in an impending lawsuit preparing to sue the MTC.

Lawsuit underway — Students at the Tongue Point Job Corps say they are planning a lawsuit against MTC for accusations of “false advertising.” They say they were “sold a lie” by MTC that they’d receive their certifications upon completion of the seamanship program.

“Every seamanship student here came from all over the country,” one student said. “Leaving behind whatever life they had. … We all came here under the impression that we would walk out of here with our OS (Ordinary Seaman), our AB (Able-Bodied) and our QMED (Qualified Member of the Engine Department) credentials.”

While students were told that the AB and QMED certifications hadn’t been offered in two years and weren’t being offered currently, they said they stayed because they were assured the certificates would come back “any single day,” once the program received curriculum approval from the Coast Guard.

On Sept. 14, Tongue Point students and instructors were informed that MTC would not continue in its partnership with the union. In addition, students were told they would not be receiving their AB and QMED certificates.

“Those credentials only stand to come back if we have the AB-certified instructors that are here now,” the anonymous student told The Astorian before Sept. 30. “So if they leave … there’s absolutely zero chance of anyone here getting any of those credentials except for their OS (Ordinary Seaman).”

As stated above, the AB-certified instructors had to leave at the end of September.

Since the announcement that the union contract was severed, several students in the seamanship program have left the program or switched to different trades such as cement masonry or carpentry. New students either picked a different trade, or went back home after hearing about what was happening to the seamanship program at Tongue Point.

“We’re already losing numbers over this. … No more than 10 (have left), but within a week, that’s noticeable.”

The seamanship program no longer has the instructors necessary to sail the vessels students use to gain experience.

“The training vessel, Columbia … we’re supposed to be taking out (on the water) every Tuesday and Thursday,” the student said. “Well, now we no longer have the instructors to do that … so now we can’t get sea time to learn anything.” https://www.yahoo.com/news/us/articles/tongue-point-job-corps-seamanship-024700201.html

Tillamook Air Museum — 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧’𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐬, 𝐰𝐞’𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐮𝐦!

With historic Hangar B now transitioning to the nonprofit Vintage Aviation Museum, a new chapter is beginning for the Tillamook Air Museum, and we could use a little help from our community as we get ready to open the doors again.

𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐮𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟗, 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝟓:𝟎𝟎–𝟖:𝟎𝟎 𝐩.𝐦. We’ll be cleaning aircraft, exhibit boards and glass doors, folding and putting away the tarps that protected our aircraft during the closure, moving some of our smaller aircraft back into position, and counting Gift Shop merchandise as we complete our inventory.

All supplies and materials will be provided, and food and refreshments will be served.We know many of you have been following the storm damage to the hangar. Work is continuing to remove damaged material and prepare that portion of the roof for repair. The damaged area is at the far end of the hangar, well away from where our volunteer activities will take place.

Getting the museum ready to reopen is a heavy lift, but with community support, it’s absolutely doable. If you’ve been wanting to help get the Tillamook Air Museum back up and running, this is your chance to roll up your sleeves and be part of it!

𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟗 | 𝟓:𝟎𝟎–𝟖:𝟎𝟎 𝐩.𝐦.𝐓𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐮𝐦𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧!

Join us for the Curry Infusion Center Ribbon-Cutting Celebration on Saturday, October 10, from 12:30–2:00 p.m.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony begins at 12:30 p.m. at the Curry Infusion Center, located on the southeast corner of Curry General Hospital, 94220 4th Street, Gold Beach.

Following the ceremony, the community is invited to tour the new Infusion Center and enjoy refreshments at Bethany Lutheran Church, 94190 5th Street, Gold Beach.

Come celebrate this important milestone for cancer care on the southern Oregon coast and the extraordinary community support that helped make it possible!

Wildlife Center of the North Coast Have you got your tickets yet? Join us on this great night of fun celebrating 29 years of wildlife rescue and rehab on the North Oregon Coast!

Tickets: https://secure.qgiv.com/…/event/10thannualfoundersnight/

If a ticket is not possible right now, consider volunteering at our event.Contact us: info (at) coastwildlife (dot) orgEither way, we’d ‘d love to see you there on Oct 25!

$14.6 Million of Delayed Federal Funding for Columbia Memorial Hospital’s Expansion Project Finally Released by FEMA

On Monday Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, U.S. Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Oregon’s U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, and Oregon State Representative Cyrus Javadi (D-Tillamook) announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released $14,567,624 in federal funds for Clatsop County and Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH) to build a tsunami-resilient hospital expansion in Astoria, featuring a vertical evacuation structure for 1,900 people.

CMH had received an award for the expansion under the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program — which provides grants for hazard mitigation planning and projects that reduce risks posed by natural hazards to communities — but faced roadblocks to accessing the funding after the Trump Administration suspended the BRIC program in 2025. Following legal challenges and advocacy by Oregon lawmakers, CMH’s BRIC funding has finally been released.

Clatsop County welcomes the release of more than $14.5 million in federal funding for Columbia Memorial Hospital’s expansion project in Astoria, clearing a major hurdle for construction of a more disaster-resilient hospital and vertical tsunami evacuation structure.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency funding will support resilience features incorporated into the new hospital, including a deep-pile foundation and a vertical evacuation structure designed to accommodate up to 1,900 people. Critical infrastructure, including generators and the hospital’s helipad, will also be located above the tsunami inundation zone.

“This victory was made possible by an extraordinary, multi-level coalition that showcases the true power of local, state, and federal collaboration,” said Mark Kujala, Chair of the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners. “Our community kept this project front and center, and people at every level of government continued working together to make sure this critical funding was restored.”

The hospital expansion is designed not only to strengthen health care services on the North Coast, but also to provide critical infrastructure following a major earthquake and tsunami. The vertical evacuation structure will offer refuge for hospital patients, staff, visitors, and members of the surrounding community during a tsunami.

The release of the federal funding completes a critical piece of the project budget and allows work on the hospital’s disaster-resilience features to move forward.

Voters in the Florence area will decide in November whether to renew an expiring levy for ambulance services.

Florence-area voters will decide this November whether to renew the Western Lane Ambulance District operational levy, which keeps the property tax rate unchanged at $45 per $100,000 of assessed value.

]Key Levy Details

• Service Area: Covers nearly 700 square miles, including all of coastal Lane County and surrounding rural, inland areas.
• Call Volume: Handles approximately 5,000 emergency medical calls and 3,700 ambulance transports each year.
• Fund Usage: Maintains and fuels three ambulances, purchases life-saving equipment and medications, and covers staffing for paramedics, dispatch, operations, and training.
• Taxpayer Impact: The cost remains flat at $45 per $100,000 of assessed property value if approved.

This fall, the Siuslaw region has the opportunity to donate learning materials, cleaning supplies, and fun items to area child care providers and early learning educators.

The Siuslaw Vision Child Care Working Group’s “Back to School Fall Supply Drive” is gathering items to directly benefit our local children and their education. This is your chance to spread joy, foster creativity, and support the youngest minds in our community. The drive will run from Monday, September 14, to Friday, October 16, 2026.

Child care providers Wildflower Montessori School, Bright Beginnings Christian Preschool, Little Blue Birds, Stepping Stones, Breanna Daycare, Head Start of Lane County, Mapleton Community Preschool, and in-home providers have created a list of their needs this fall.

People can donate by swinging by collection at Banner Bank, Bi-Mart, BeauxArts Fine Art Materials, Coastal Fitness, Columbia Bank, First Community Credit Union, Fred Meyer, Grocery Outlet, the Florence Visitors Center, Jawsome Kids Resale, and True Value Hardware.

The “Back to School Fall Supply Drive” is hosted by the Siuslaw Vision Child Care Working Group and sponsored by True Value Hardware, Siuslaw Childcare Friends, the City of Florence, and Siuslaw Vision. Learn more at https://siuslawvision.org/childcare/

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Honeyman Memorial State Park closed in early 2027 for tree removal

Oregon State Parks will remove over 150 dead or unhealthy trees in Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park campground and day use area. During the removal work, the campground will be closed for several days. The length of the closure and exact timing is still being determined.

“OPRD implements a hazard tree inspection program that is crucial for identifying trees that are exhibiting signs of health decline and could become hazardous to people and infrastructure,” said Kathryn Charlton, Coastal Region Forester.

The project will take about a month and a half beginning in January 2027. A hired contractor will remove approximately 20 dead and unhealthy trees from Cleawox day use area around Cleawox Lake. They will remove about another 145 trees with declining health and structural issues from the campground area. Specifically, Loop H will see the removal of around 55 shore pines and several large Sitka spruce with decay and structural issues will be removed in Loops A, B and C.

As part of Oregon State Parks’ commitment to safety and stewardship, tree maintenance and removal is a regular occurrence. Information about the closure will be posted on the park web page and Oregon State Parks social media.

“We are providing this early notice so folks can plan accordingly with their camping plans,” said Park Manager Ryan Warren. “This campground is a popular destination, so we wanted to give visitors advance notice of this hazard tree project.”

Oregon State Parks will donate some of the logs from these trees to Suislaw Soil and Water Conservation District and Smith River Watershed Council l to place in streams for riparian and aquatic habitat restoration efforts. For some of these large trees, a short portion of the lower stem will be left standing to become snag. Snags provide food, nesting and denning resources for wildlife such as birds and small mammals that use the park as habitat.

Reedsport Fire Department Seeks Volunteer Ham Radio Operators

The Reedsport Volunteer Fire Department is looking for volunteers interested in becoming licensed ham radio operators to support emergency communications in western Douglas County. Training is online and offered at no charge.

The Reedsport Volunteer Fire Department is looking for volunteers interested in becoming licensed ham radio operators to support emergency communications in western Douglas County.

The volunteers would work with the Western Douglas County Emergency Operations Center, located at the Reedsport Fire Station at 2680 Frontage Road.

According to the department, training is offered online at no charge. A background check is required for anyone interested in the volunteer positions.

Ham radio operators can play an important role during major emergencies, especially when normal communication systems are down. In those situations, radio operators may help keep local emergency officials connected with county, state and federal agencies.

The department said the positions are vital because ham radio could become one of the last available ways to communicate during an emergency incident.

Anyone interested in learning more can contact Melvina Adolf at 928-200-0979 or the Reedsport Fire Department at 541-271-2423.

Oregon Whale Sightings

Oregon Whale Sightings is a fun place to hear about and report cetaceans along our beautiful coastline.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1176168644064352/

Puffins on the Oregon Coast

Friends of Haystack Rock  · We have puffins!

Check out our website, Friendsofhaystackrock.org to see them live! We have our webcam zoomed in on a couple active burrows. Your best chance to see them is in the morning between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Organized by the Haystack Rock Awareness Program and Friends of Haystack Rock, the free event will not only celebrate the return of the puffins to their Oregon nesting grounds but also give the public the chance to spy on the birds as well. Interpretive rangers will be on hand with binoculars and spotting scopes to help people safely observe the tufted puffins.

Donor Offers $50K Reward in 40-Year-Old Case of Missing Oregon Coast Teen

Lincoln County authorities hope the recent offer from an anonymous donor of a $50,000 reward will lead to the remains of a 17-year-old Siletz girl who was last seen walking on U.S. 20 more than four decades ago.

An anonymous donor put up money hoping it will spur information that leads not only to Kelly Disney’s remains but also to the conviction of her killer, according to the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

The DA’s Office has confirmed that an anonymous donor offered the reward for any information leading to Disney’s remains and/or the conviction of her killer.

Information can be submitted anonymously at 541-265-0669 or online at FindKellyDisney@co.lincoln.or.us

READ MORE on CASE: https://lincolnchronicle.org/15597-2/

Wildlife Center of the North Coast · We need your help! 

Make a difference in wildlife rescue! Join our Wild at Heart Membership Program starting at just $5/month. Help us save lives! https://coastwildlife.org/wild-at-heart/

It’s been a busy summer here at the Wildlife Center of the North Coast, and our rehab clinic has gone through lots of supplies caring for patients!!

->> To help us restock and stay prepared for the next wave of wildlife in need, we’ve updated our Amazon Wishlist with the items we need most. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/LU97SQA0VPZA

Every donation—big or small—goes directly to helping orphaned, injured, and sick wildlife get a second chance at life. Check out our wishlist here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/LU97SQA0VPZA Thank you for being part of our wildlife rescue family! 

Volunteers are being sought to help prepare and serve lunch three times a week at the Florence Senior and Activity Center.  

They serve lunch Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week. Both programs, the in-house dining known as Cafe 60, and Meals on Wheels, are very important in helping promote socialization and nutrition for older adults in Lane County.  Volunteer drivers for Meals on Wheels use their own vehicles, but they can be reimbursed for their mileage.  The Lane Council of Governments operates the Senior and Disabled Services in Lane County.  Alisa Andrion encourages potential volunteers to give her a call at L-COG, 541-682-1366.

Gleneden Beach Community Club Events

Look what’s coming up soon at the Club… (sign up at glenedenbeach.org)

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Follow on Facebook: Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

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. 

Oregon Department of Human Services – Many Oregonians may qualify for SNAP work or activity rule exemptions without realizing it

Could you qualify for an exemption to SNAP work or activity rules? Contact us so we can talk about your situation and your options! Common reasons people might qualify include:- You’re pregnant.- You’re physically or mentally unable to work.- You’re already working enough hours to meet the requirement.- You’re participating in a qualifying education or training program.- You have moved to an exempt county or waived Tribal land.- You are responsible for caring for a child or another person, depending on their circumstances.

Learn more about exemptions in this news release: https://apps.oregon.gov/…/many-oregonians-may-qualify…Or visit https://oregon.gov/snapworkrules to find information about SNAP work rules and more.

10/5/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

Oregon, the 2026 General Elections Voter’s Pamphlet is now available to preview online at oregonvotes.gov/voterspamphlet.

The Oregon Voters’ Pamphlet is a source of information about candidates, measures, and voting rules.

Translated copies will be published Friday, October 9, and printed pamphlets will be delivered between October 7 and October 9.

Oregon Secretary of State Encourages Voters to Verify Authenticity of Election Mail 

As Oregon officials begin to send ballots out for the upcoming November election, the state’s top elections officer is encouraging voters to verify whether their election-related mail comes from an official source. 

Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read’s office recommended in a recent press release that Oregonians look for an official election photo, consider that third-party groups creating fake mail often use outdated or incorrect data and make sure their registration is correct using the oregonvotes.gov website. The office said the most accurate and up-to-date voter registration information will be with people’s local election offices. 

“We’re already getting reports about misleading mail going out to voters, so I want Oregonians to have the tools to be able to tell fact from fiction,” Read said in a statement. “The good news is, it’s pretty simple: If you receive something in the mail about voter registration or your ability to participate in the upcoming election, look for the official election mail logo to verify that it’s from an official source.”

A logo for official election mail will come with a note clarifying that it is authorized by the U.S. Postal Service, and it is used for materials such as ballots, voter registration cards and voter reply mail. It features the stars and stripes of the America flag and the words “Official Election Mail” and “Authorized by the U.S. Postal Service.” It comes in black or specific shades of blue or red. 

Read’s office encouraged Oregon voters seeking more information about election-related mail to contact the Oregon Secretary of State’s Elections Division at ​elections.sos@sos.oregon.gov or by calling 1-866-673-VOTE. He also recommended people contact their local county clerks, who are listed on the secretary of state’s website. (SOURCE)

2026 Preparedness Events — Ready Fair

To cap off Preparedness Month, OEM invites the public to attend the Ready Fair on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, in Salem. This free, family-friendly event is designed to help our communities build resilience and preparedness.

The Ready Fair will bring together subject-matter experts and community partners to share practical tips and resources aligned with OEM’s Be 2 Weeks Ready program. 

What to Expect: 

• Expert-Led Booths on emergency alerts, food and water planning, sanitation, and more 
• Interactive Activitiesincluding a fun, earthquake-themed escape room and shake simulator. 
• Preparedness for All Ageswith kid-friendly stations and hands-on learning. 
• Food Trucksand a chance to win a fully stocked emergency go-bag for your family. 

Event Details: 

• Date:Saturday, October 10, 2026 
• Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
• Location:3930 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE, Salem, Oregon 97302 
• Cost:FREE and open to the public 

In addition to the Ready Fair, OEM is encouraging people to participate in the Great Oregon ShakeOut: October 15, 2026, at 10:16 AM (local time). Join millions of people across Oregon to practice earthquake safety. The ShakeOut is a fast, simple drill to help you learn how to Drop, Cover and Hold On.

And the Great Oregon Camp-In: October 16–18, 2026. Held the weekend after the ShakeOut, the Camp-In is an at-home preparedness exercise where households practice living without utilities, refine emergency plans and test their supplies. Participate for a few hours or the entire weekend.

“Community preparedness is strongest when people feel informed, supported, and empowered,” OEM’s Community Preparedness Coordinator Kayla Thompson, said. “Our goal is to meet Oregonians where they are, provide accessible resources, and encourage everyday steps that build resilience long before an emergency happens.”

For more information on Preparedness Month and the Be 2 Weeks Ready campaign, visit www.oregon.gov/oem.  

PACIFIC NORTHWEST WILDFIRE UPDATE

As of October 7, 2026, wildfire activity across Oregon continues to moderate significantly due to the arrival of cool, seasonal autumn weather and steady containment progress. There are currently 13 large active fires tracked across the state, though most major blazes are heavily contained and there are no active Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches.

• Pelican Butte: Firefighters in southern Oregon are working today to extend fire lines on the east side of a localized fire on Pelican Butte.
• Interstate 5 (Sutherlin): Early this morning (October 7), Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) crews responded to a new, smaller roadside fire along Interstate 5 near Sutherlin.

• Total Active Large Fires: 13 fires
• Current Weather Hazards: None. Fire weather conditions are stable.
• Active Restrictions: Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public use restrictions and burn bans remain in effect through October to prevent new human-caused starts.

Major Fire Updates & Containment LevelsThe largest incidents from the historic 2026 season have reached near-total containment, though crews continue monitoring interior hotspots and localized activity. [1, 2]

Fire Name (County)	Size (Acres)	Containment Status	Notes / Recent Activity
Grasshopper Fire (Wasco)	~93,972 acres	98% Contained	Fully within containment lines; monitoring stage.
Austin Fire (Clackamas)	~12,888 acres	98% Contained	Minimal behavior; residual interior smoldering.
The Narrows Fire (Clackamas)	~305 acres	98% Contained	Near complete containment.
Dorran Road Fire (Umatilla)	Varies	Active Monitoring	Burning on private land; no current threat to structures or evacuation notices.
Deep Creek Fire (Lane)	~56 acres	Under Review	Under monitoring with low growth potential.

Real-time evacuation zones, acreage adjustments, and air quality conditions can be tracked directly through the Oregon Wildfire Tracker Map or the Live Oregon Fire Map and Tracker.

Oregon Division of Financial Regulation keeps pause on cancellations in place by extending wildfire emergency order another 30 days

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has extended the wildfire emergency order and bulletin a second time for 30 days to Oct. 29. The order was set to expire Sept. 29. The division initially issued the order in late July for people affected by the state’s wildfire situation and extended it 30 days in late August.

The ZIP codes listed in the bulletin remain covered.  As a reminder, this order requires all property and casualty insurance companies to take proactive measures to protect people in wildfire affected areas.

The order: • Suspends cancellations and nonrenewals 

• Establishes a grace period for premium payments for all insurance policies issued, delivered, or covering a risk in the affected areas

• Extends deadlines for policyholders to report claims or submit other claims-related communications

• Requires all insurers to take all practicable steps to provide opportunities for policyholders to report claims 

If your home or property was damaged by the wildfires, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss your situation and learn next steps. If you still have concerns, the division’s consumer advocates are here to help. Call 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. 

Visit the DFR’s wildfire insurance resource page to view the order, bulletin, and more insurance information. ### 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. 

𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲

Two people were found dead inside a home after someone shot at Oregon State Police detectives who were helping with a missing person investigation.

Tuesday morning (Oct. 6) at approximately 10 a.m., Oregon State Police detectives were assisting the Medford Police Department with follow-up related to a missing person investigation at a property in the 10400 block of Williams Highway.

While at the property, the OSP detectives made contact with an individual who later retreated inside the residence, and shot at detectives. The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office and Grants Pass Police Department responded, and the incident developed into a barricaded subject situation.

Once the residence was secured, two individuals were found deceased inside the home. No law enforcement officers were injured.

Due to the involvement of the responding agencies, the MPD was requested to take over the investigation. The investigation remains ongoing, and we are unable to provide additional details at this time. Questions regarding the incident should be directed to the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office.

OSP detectives went to a property in the 10400 block of Williams Highway around 10 a.m. this morning to assist the Medford Police Department. While there, detectives contacted a person who went back inside the home and fired shots at them.

The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office and Grants Pass Police Department responded. The situation turned into a standoff with the person barricaded inside. Once officers secured the home, they found two people dead inside. No officers were hurt.

Because multiple agencies responded, the Medford Police Department took over the investigation. The Josephine County District Attorney’s Office is handling questions about the incident.

Celebrating the legacy and impact of Head Start in Oregon

Governor Kotek issued a statewide proclamation officially designating October as Head Start Awareness Month.

“Head Start is more than a preschool program—it is a comprehensive support system for children and families,” said DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee. “From early learning services to dental and vision screenings, to the wraparound resources that help families meet daily needs, Head Start ensures children enter school healthy, supported, and ready to succeed. Its impact reaches far beyond the classroom, strengthening families and opening doors for every child, regardless of zip code or circumstance.”

Since its launch in 1965, Head Start has nurtured hundreds of thousands of children in Oregon, strengthened family stability, and consistently demonstrated positive impact through comprehensive, community-centered, and family-driven services.

“During Head Start Awareness Month, we have an opportunity in Oregon to recognize the lasting impact of quality early education and family support,” said OHSA Executive Director Nancy Perin. “Head Start programs across our state work alongside families and communities to ensure children learn, grow, and succeed. We are grateful to the educators, staff, families, and community partners commitment to children and their futures.”

The Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten (OPK) program, established in 1987 and modeled after Head Start, is administered by DELC and available across all 36 Oregon counties. OPK has expanded to support children from prenatal to age five, exceeding the federal investment in Head Start to help tens of thousands more children and their families statewide.

Throughout October, DELC and OHSA will celebrate Head Start Awareness Month by raising awareness of the essential role Head Start plays in Oregon. To find a head start center visit: Head Start Center Locator | ECLKC (hhs.gov). To learn more about Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten/Head Start visit: https://www.oregon.gov/delc/programs/Pages/head-start-opk.aspx.

About the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care — The Department of Early Learning and Care’s mission is to foster coordinated, culturally appropriate, and family-centered services that recognize and respect the strengths and needs of all children, families, and early learning and care professionals. More information about DELC is available at Oregon.gov/DELC. You can also connect with DELC on Facebook or sign up for news alerts and updates.

The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) and the Oregon Head Start Association (OHSA) join communities across Oregon and the nation in honoring the enduring legacy and vital work of Head Start in the lives of young children, families, and early learning professionals.

“Whether you’re a statewide company, a neighborhood business, a Lions Club or simply someone who believes Oregon students deserve the opportunity to succeed, there is a place for you in this campaign,” said Thompson. “Together, we can reach more students, identify more vision concerns early and help more children enter the classroom ready to learn.”

Progress Report: State Agencies Delivering on Governor Kotek’s Expectations

Salem, OR — The Department of Administrative Services (DAS) released the Oregon Agency Expectations: Three-Year Progress Report on Tuesday, showcasing statewide improvements in customer service, performance, coordination, and accountability since Governor Tina Kotek established her agency expectations in 2023.

In January 2023, Governor Tina Kotek issued a letter outlining 11 expectations for how Executive Branch agencies manage employee performance, improve services, modernize systems, plan for the future, and ensure accountability. She also directed DAS to provide the structure, tools, and oversight needed to support agencies in meeting these standards. DAS published the first progress report in June 2023.

Over the past three years, data show that agencies aligned strategic planning with statewide priorities, improved customer service, increased employee engagement, resolved overdue audit findings, and advanced technology and modernization efforts. These efforts have contributed to cost savings and to a more responsive and responsible government. Regular, standardized data collection has created a shared framework for tracking progress, leading to greater accountability across state government and increased transparency for the public.

“State government has a responsibility to work efficiently, effectively, and with accountability to the people we serve,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “When I set these expectations three years ago, I wanted to create a clear standard for how agencies operate and a way to measure their work. But progress is not the finish line – I will continue pushing for a government that delivers better services, uses taxpayer dollars responsibly, and makes it easier for Oregonians to get what they need from their state government.”

Among areas of progress, some examples include:

• Reducing operating costs: Co-locating agencies in state‑owned buildings and reducing reliance on private leases by the Department of Administrative Services have helped shrink Oregon’s office footprint by roughly 782,000 square feet since 2021, an 8% reduction. These changes generate about $12.9 million in annual savings. The Oregon Department of Transportation modernized its 30-year-old heavy truck permit program. Permit processing times dropped from days to minutes, carriers gained 24-hour access, auto-issuance of permits increased from zero to 45%, and call volumes also decreased by 45%. ODOT also eliminated 100,000 pages of paper annually, saving roughly $90,000 each year in materials costs alone, while reducing its environmental impact.
• Removing red tape for businesses: The Department of Revenue redesigned its business registration workflow, dramatically reducing processing times from 30 days to two days. Customer calls decreased by 40% and approved applications increased by 10%. These improvements make it easier for Oregon businesses to open, expand, and operate, strengthening the state’s business climate.
• Measuring audit progress through standardized reporting: Required agencies now report on audit twice per year, giving the Governor’s Office and the public visibility into audit findings and whether recommendations are being implemented. In the March 2026 Oregon Expectations Report, agencies reported 127 audit reports containing information on 787 recommendations. A consistent audit system ensures when problems are identified, agencies have a clear path to address them.
• Making the state of Oregon a more competitive employer: Agencies took an average of 71 days to fill positions in 2023, and the statewide vacancy rate exceeded 14%. That same year, Governor Kotek directed agencies to monitor hiring timelines and maintain an average time to fill under 50 days. The metric starts when a recruitment opens and ends when a job offer is made. By the second quarter of 2026, agencies are exceeding the Governor’s goal for the first time, reducing the average hiring timeline to 49 days.
• Developing new employees and increasing accountability: Partnering with labor unions, the Chief Human Resources Office implemented new statewide guidance for new employee orientation, customer service training, foundational manager training, performance feedback training, and benefits education. By 2026, participation rates in five-of-six categories increased over the rates at first measurement. Accountability improved at all levels, including among agency directors. By 2026, all directors on the job for a year or more completed evaluations known as Director 360s. In 2023, only 29 of 77 directors reported receiving a performance review within a year of service.
• Creating a more engaged, higher performing workforce: The number of engaged state employees increased by 6% to a total of 42% in 2026, outpacing the national average of 31%. The Department of Consumer and Business Services increased its overall engagement score from 3.99 to 4.17, a dramatic increase. In large organizations, raising an aggregate score by 0.1 can represent hundreds of individual mindset shifts and lead to lower turnover rates. The Oregon Department of Human Services reduced turnover from approximately 11% to 8%, including declines among employees of color and first year staff.
• Advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging: The Construction Contractors Board expanded access for Spanish speaking contractors and consumers. The agency now delivers multiple licensing and continuing education courses in Spanish, helping raise the Spanish exam pass rate from historic levels of about 30% to 56% as of June 2026. The Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) has advanced equity through its grant programs, providing more than $2.3 million since 2024 to low and moderate income domestic well users with water supply issues.
• Poised to respond to emergencies and crises: Emergency preparedness across Oregon’s state government has advanced significantly over the last three years. Eighty-eight state agencies have now completed and submitted a Continuity of Operations Plan with the Office of Emergency Management. Only 42 agencies had such a plan in 2023, and many of them lacked sufficient detail.

Read the Oregon Agency Expectations: Three-Year Progress Report on the DAS website.

Governor Kotek Proclaims Community Bank Week, Celebrating the Banks Supporting Oregon Communities

October 19–23 proclamation recognizes more than 110 Oregon branches and loan offices, 2,365 jobs, and the role community banks play in small-business lending

— Governor Tina Kotek has officially proclaimed October 19–23, 2026, as Community Bank Week in Oregon, recognizing the important role community banks play in supporting families, small businesses, and communities across the state.

“For well over a century, community banks doing business in Oregon have provided local financial services and have supported the prosperity and growth of our communities,” Governor Kotek said in the proclamation. “Community banks are an integral part of Oregon’s overall economy through their community giving, dedication as good neighbors, and above all, their critical role in providing reliable financial services to Oregonians.”

Community banks serve Oregon through more than 110 branches and loan offices and provide more than 2,365 family-wage jobs. They make more than half of all bank loans to small businesses and play a significant role in local economic development, helping stimulate the economy, create jobs, and provide new opportunities.

“Community banks are deeply connected to the communities they serve,” said Scott Bruun, president and CEO of the Oregon Bankers Association. “They provide capital to local businesses, support community organizations, create jobs, and contribute to the economic vitality of communities across Oregon. Governor Kotek’s proclamation recognizes the important role these banks play in the lives of Oregonians.”

During Community Bank Week, participating banks will celebrate with customer appreciation events, community service projects, food drives, financial education, and other activities that highlight the ways banks support the communities they serve.

“We invite Oregonians to join us in celebrating the banks that are investing in their communities every day,” Bruun said. “Community Bank Week is an opportunity to recognize the relationships, businesses, organizations, and community efforts that help Oregon communities thrive.”

About the Oregon Bankers Association
Established in 1905, the Oregon Bankers Association is a full-service trade association with a membership that includes state and national commercial banks, savings banks and trust companies doing business in Oregon. The mission of the OBA is to be the voice of Oregon banking.

The Oregon Bankers Association serves a dynamic, innovative and community-minded industry. The competitive nature of banking gives Oregonians and Oregon businesses a wide variety of choices for their financial services. In our collective endeavors, the Oregon Bankers Association and its members strive to ensure that Oregon remains a great place to do business and a great place to do banking. To learn more, visit www.oregonbankers.com.

Crater Lake’s damaged roof on historic building could face another winter unfixed

The Sager Building at Crater Lake National Park suffered a partial roof collapse last winter. The park’s estimated $800,000 annual budget is already being used on other projects. So Crater Lake National Park is turning to nonprofit partners to help pay for repairs to the historic building that’s apart of the Munson Valley Historic District.

The building holds the park’s superintendent’s office, along with various other roles. The park already has a contractor, quote and process ready to go, though the Park Service’s standard contracting procedures wouldn’t allow the repair to be complete in time before winter. 

Crater Lake National Park Superintendent, Curt Dimmick, has asked three of the park’s nonprofits to split $41,000, allowing the project to begin sooner in the fall.  “We won’t be able to do it before winter if we have to go through the NPS standard contracting procedures,” Dimmick said. 

The collapsed section of the building is exposed to the elements, which could lead to further issues and more damage if the issue isn’t resolved. The project would begin in Spring of 2027 if the National Park can’t secure a plan with nonprofits, leading them to pursue federal funding. 

A Medford, Oregon, man pleaded guilty Tuesday to distributing fentanyl and admitted that it caused the death of another person.

Richard Scott Samuels, 60, has pleaded guilty to an indictment charging possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, announced the U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

According to court documents, a death was reported on May 15, 2025, and on August 6, 2025. Both were determined to be deaths due to a fentanyl overdose. Law enforcement investigated these deaths and learned that Samuels was alleged to be the supplier of the fentanyl that both the deceased had used.

On September 4, 2025, law enforcement arrested Samuels and seized from his person and residence, a phone, $5,332 cash, a handgun, and multiple drugs in approximate amounts; 283g fentanyl, 92g of heroin, 5g of meth, and 5g of cocaine.

On November 6, 2025, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Samuels with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 

Samuels faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a $5,000,000 fine and four years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on December 17, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

As part of the plea agreement Samuels has agreed to forfeit any criminally derived proceeds and property used to facilitate his crimes identified by the government prior to sentencing.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by AUSA Sara Shaw. (SOURCE)

DFR warns of “self-funded” limited-partner health plans

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning consumers to carefully review health insurance coverage offered through “self-funded” limited-partner plans or other unlicensed entities.

Oregonians should exercise caution before enrolling in a limited partner plan. Companies may offer plans that refer to consumers as “limited partners” or “employees” to avoid Oregon consumer-protection regulations. Many limited partner plans cover only preventive care, such as check-ups and annual health screenings. The plans tempt consumers with promises of low premium costs. However, consumers often end up with higher out-of-pocket costs due to uncovered medical bills. With open enrollment rapidly approaching, it is important to know what the difference is between these plans and standard plans. Open enrollment, which begins Nov. 1 and goes through Jan. 15, is for those who do not get insurance through their job, Medicare, or the Oregon Health Plan.

DFR warned of these plans back in April. They are not compliant with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and do not provide comprehensive medical coverage, although they may be marketed otherwise. This leaves consumers with the possibility of being unexpectedly responsible for unpaid medical bills. Individual health plans that comply with the ACA are available only through a licensed insurance agent or through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. Consumers should pay close attention to ensure that they are on the “.gov” website as there are other websites with similar web addresses that offer non-ACA-compliant plans.

“Consumers should remember the adage that 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.”

Red flags to look for include:

• A salesperson marketing limited partner plans or other “ERISA plans” directly to consumers
• A salesperson claiming they do not need a license because their product is not insurance or is exempt from regulation
• A salesperson offering to sign you up outside open enrollment and without eligibility for a special enrollment period
• A health insurance plan seeming abnormally cheap or referencing “stop-loss” insurance
• A group issuing coverage with minimal requests about an applicant’s health
• A company attempting to quickly collect a large amount of premium
• A company delaying or denying claims and making excuses for failure to pay

Before providing an insurance sales agent with any payment or personal information, DFR encourages consumers to request the agent’s full name and National Producer Number. Consumers can verify the agent’s licensure status by visiting DFR’s check a license webpage.

DFR urges Oregonians to be careful when choosing a company to purchase health care coverage from. Organizations and health plans that DFR and other state regulators have identified as having marketed limited partner or self-funded coverage include:

• Socios Buenos, LP aka Vista Health
• Affordable Benefit Choices LLC
• LP Management Services, LLC
• Aither Healthcare Competitive Health
• NXT Level Health
• Multiplan PHCS Network
• Verdegard Administrators, LLC fka Hawaii Mainland Administrators, LLC
• Pioneer Health/Innovative Healthcare Solutions
• ClearShare Health and Clearwater Benefits LLC
• Emergency Management Alliance
• Premier Health Solutions
• Strategic Limited Partners, LP
• The Vitamin Patch, LLC

Consumers who believe they may have been deceived or have questions can contact our consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (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.

Pacific Power offers Oregon customers rebates for backup power 

Program helps eligible customers prepare for wildfire-related outages and winter storms 

With a record-setting wildfire season that brought power disruptions to communities across Oregon winding down, Pacific Power is reminding eligible customers about rebates that can help them prepare for future outage events. As our focus transitions to winter storm season, qualified customers and licensed care facilities can still get help purchasing backup power equipment.

Income-qualified residential customers who rely on electricity for medical equipment can receive a rebate of up to $1,000, and eligible licensed residential care homes, care facilities, adult foster homes and hospices can qualify for up to $4,000 in rebates. These rebates can be used toward a qualified portable power station, battery or permanent backup generator.

“We prioritize emergency preparedness education and communication in our communities so our customers are prepared in the event an outage whether related to wildfire safety or seasonal storms,” said Carrie Laird, vice president of wildfire mitigation and emergency operations for Pacific Power. “We want eligible customers and care facilities to know this assistance is available and encourage them to apply before the upcoming deadlines so that they can take advantage of these helpful programs, which can offer peace of mind.”

To qualify for the residential rebate, applicants need to have an active Pacific Power account number, either as a customer or as the tenant of a Pacific Power customer. They also have to be enrolled in both Pacific Power’s Medical Certificate program and Oregon Low Income Discount program. Eligible customers should select backup power equipment from the program’s qualified product list and meet applicable requirements, which are spelled out in detail on our website.

Licensed care facilities also have to have an active Pacific Power account number, either directly or through a Pacific Power customer whose property they occupy. Eligible facilities include licensed residential care homes, care facilities, adult foster homes and hospices.

Eligible equipment must be purchased by December 31, 2026, and Pacific Power must receive the completed application and purchase receipt by January 31, 2027. Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis until the program’s annual funding is fully used.

Pacific Power launched the Oregon Backup Electric Power Rebate Program in 2023. Since then, the company has issued 421 rebates totaling more than $1.2 million.

The program is also helping communities strengthen their backup power readiness. In 2025, Linn County identified eligible care facilities and encouraged them to invest in backup power. Twenty-seven facilities received rebates of $4,000 each, for a total of $108,000. A batch application process is now available for jurisdictions submitting applications for multiple facilities.

Customers with questions about batch applications for multiple care facilities may email Generator@resource-innovations.com“>PacPowerGenerator@resource-innovations.com.

Check out Oregon State Parks with your library card

Borrow an Oregon State Parks parking permit for free at 82 libraries statewide.

– Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) and the State Library of Oregon are partnering to offer free state parks parking permits to Oregon public libraries. There are currently 200 parking permits available at 82 libraries across the state.

“Oregon’s state parks are for everyone,” said OPRD deputy director JR Collier. “As we assess ways to manage our budget responsibly, we also want to uplift equitable access to our parks.”

Each participating library received up to four parking permits. These are the physical hang tags you check out from the library and put in your car. The permit covers parking in all Oregon State Parks day-use areas for one vehicle. Go to the Oregon State Parks website to find participating libraries. All you need to participate is your library card.

“Libraries help make life more affordable for Oregonians. This program leverages the existing borrowing system to help connects folks of all income levels with the beauty and splendor of Oregon’s State Parks,” said Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian.

Both OPRD and the State Library contributed 100 parking permits to the program to distribute to libraries. The agencies determined how many passes each library would receive based on interest from the library, its proximity to a park charging a day use fee, and the size of the population it serves. The State Library purchased permits with Library Services and Technology Act funds from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

OPRD first distributed parking permits to 28 libraries as part of a year-long pilot program starting in August 2024. Those passes were checked out more than 2,100 times. At the pilot’s conclusion, OPRD evaluated how to best move the program forward in the context of its changing fees. In 2027, OPRD and the State Library will continue to explore options for an expanded long-term program that will serve even more libraries and people in Oregon. Learn more about the OPRD Library Pass Program.

Statewide hotline available for Oregonians affected by wildfires and smoke

People anywhere in Oregon who have been affected by wildfires or wildfire-related air quality can call 1-833-699-0554 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The statewide hotline is available to people experiencing any wildfire-related impact, including those who:

• Lost a home or property
• Evacuated and have ongoing needs
• Are sheltering in place and have wildfire-related needs
• Are affected by wildfire smoke or poor air quality
• Have another need or concern caused by a wildfire

“During this difficult wildfire season, Oregonians impacted by fires deserve immediate and reliable access to the help they need,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “That’s why we’ve established a dedicated, 24/7 hotline – so that no Oregonian has to navigate this wildfire season alone or wonder where to turn to for help.”

The hotline is staffed by 211info. If a call is not answered, callers can leave a message and will receive a return call within one business day.

This hotline does not provide emergency evacuation assistance or help people locate immediate shelter. People who are in immediate danger, have a medical emergency, or need emergency help evacuating should call 911. People looking for information about shelters or other immediate resources can call 2-1-1. For current 211info operating hours, visit 211info.org.

People can also enter their contact information and describe their wildfire-related needs using the Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form. An ODHS staff member will review the information and follow up with them.

“This wildfire season is already affecting a growing number of Oregon Tribes and communities,” said Ed Flick, Director, ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management. “Wildfires can affect people in many ways, even when their homes have not burned. We want people to know there is one place they can call to share what they are experiencing and learn what resources may be available.”

In previous years the hotline has been used to connect people who lost homes in disasters with recovery support. This year, the Oregon Department of Human Services is expanding it to people experiencing a broader range of wildfire impacts.

ODHS has informally coordinated individual assistance following Oregon disasters since 2020. This year, Governor Tina Kotek directed ODHS to be ready to formally activate individual assistance when needed as the state prepares to establish a formal program in 2027 under House Bill 4121.

211info and ODHS will work with local communities to connect people with existing programs and local resources. If those resources are not enough to meet the level of need, ODHS will work with state leaders to identify additional support and funding options.

The hotline does not guarantee financial assistance or eligibility for a particular program. Staff will listen to each caller’s experience, document their needs and help identify available resources and next steps.

Hotline information

• Call: 1-833-699-0554
• Available: 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Missed calls: Leave a message and your call will be returned within one business day
• Shelter and other immediate resource questions: call 211
• Emergencies or emergency evacuation help: call 911

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.

Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com

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