January 12, 2026

Good morning Douglas County! Here are today's updates live from the Roseburg Receiver Communications Center.

• Current Temp: 33° F
• Humidity: 97%
• Wind: 2 MPH SW
• Current Conditions: Cloudy
• Air Quality Index: 49
• Today's Forecast: High 50 | Low 33 | Mostly Cloudy
• Sunrise: 7:44 AM | Sunset: 5:00 PM

AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY THROUGH 4:00 A.M. FRIDAY

An Air Stagnation Advisory remains in effect for the valleys of Douglas County through 4 a.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service Medford OR.

The advisory applies to valley locations including Roseburg, Drain, Umpqua, Sutherlin, Elkton, Canyonville, Myrtle Creek, Green, Glendale, and Winchester.

What is happening

A strong area of high pressure remains over the region, creating a temperature inversion and stagnant air near the surface. These conditions prevent pollutants from dispersing, allowing them to build up in valley areas and degrade air quality.

Impacts

Poor air quality may affect sensitive groups, particularly people with respiratory or heart conditions, older adults, and children. Outdoor burning is likely to be restricted or prohibited due to limited ventilation.

What residents should know

• Air quality is expected to remain poor until early Friday morning
• Valley locations are most affected
• Smoke and other pollutants may linger, especially overnight and during early morning hours

Health guidance

Individuals with respiratory illness should follow guidance from their healthcare providers during periods of stagnant air. Limiting prolonged outdoor activity may help reduce exposure while conditions persist.

The high pressure system is expected to remain in place through much of the week, meaning air quality concerns could continue until weather patterns change.

MERKLEY TOWN HALL DRAWS AROUND 200 PEOPLE TO SOWI

On Saturday, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley’s town hall event drew around 200 people to the Southern Oregon Wine Institute on the campus of Umpqua Community College in Winchester.

It ended up being Merkley’s first town hall of 2026 after the junior senator postponed events on Friday, following the Thursday shooting of two people said to have connections with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, by agents with the U.S. Border Patrol in Portland.

Merkley began the event by honoring the work of Thrive Umpqua. The organization’s executive director Jess Hand explained their mission and Merkley gave Hand and her staff an American flag that has flown over the U.S. capitol in Washington D.C.

Before taking questions from the audience, Merkley shared his concerns regarding the financial future of the Social Security program. He said that addressing the issue needs to be a bigger concern for lawmakers.

Merkley heard concerns regarding health care and hospitals, the potential for some federal lands to be returned to the states, wildfires burning on federal land and more. The senator told local veterans leader Jim Little that he is continuing to push for federal funding to help build a state veterans home in Roseburg. In response to a question regarding ICE agents, Merkley said he is opposed to people being targeted due to their skin color. The senator drew big applause when he said he doesn’t trust the information coming from the Department of Homeland Security. Merkley said he continues to support vote by mail, despite an effort by the Trump Administration to pull back from the practice.

Those in attendance appeared largely supportive of Merkley’s opinions, though there were some dissenters. One man described as being a staunch Republican said he was there because Merkley “is still our senator”.

Merkley’s series of town hall meetings wrapped up on Sunday.

2026 STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS AS PART OF FIRST COUNCIL MEETING

Mayor Larry Rich will present the 2026 State of the City address as part of the Roseburg City Council’s first meeting of the year on Monday night.

The public can watch the address in person, via the city’s Facebook page, or on: www.cityofroseburg.org. A Microsoft PowerPoint slideshow will accompany the mayor’s speech. The full presentation should be available as the “State of the City Message” on the city’s website sometime on Tuesday.

Following the speech, Mayor Rich will announce commission chair appointments for the new year. There will be a discussion regarding the Homeless Commission. Appointments to city commissions will be made. Councilors will choose a council president for 2026.

Councilors will consider a resolution for an appropriation transfer for Fiscal Year 2025-26 affecting the Grant Fund. They will also vote on modifying the fee schedule for the tennis center.

The meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the council chambers on Southeast Douglas Avenue.

Commissioners Approve Drug Enforcement Grant for Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team

Douglas County commissioners have approved the acceptance of a renewed state grant to support the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team, known as DINT. The funding is provided through the Illegal Marijuana Market Enforcement Grant Program and was awarded by the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission.

The grant totals $1,945,652 and represents the next funding cycle of an existing award. The funding will support illegal marijuana enforcement efforts in Douglas County through August 31, 2027.

According to county officials, the funding is intended to strengthen DINT’s capacity to investigate and address illegal marijuana cultivation and distribution operations. Grant funds may be used for personnel costs, investigations, equipment, training, prosecution related expenses, and coordinated enforcement efforts with local, state, and federal partners.

The Illegal Marijuana Market Enforcement Grant Program was established in 2018 following the passage of Senate Bill 1544 by the Oregon Legislature. The program provides resources to local law enforcement agencies and district attorneys’ offices to help address unlawful marijuana activity across Oregon. The Oregon Criminal Justice Commission notes that the program also assists communities with costs related to investigation, prosecution, and services for victims and survivors of labor trafficking and worker abuse connected to illegal grow operations.

Lieutenant Rick McArthur, who commands DINT, said the renewed funding will allow the team to maintain proactive enforcement and operational readiness while continuing to work with partner agencies within Douglas County. He also acknowledged Commissioner Freeman’s role in supporting the grant process at the state level.

Commissioner Freeman stated that the grant reflects the Board of Commissioners’ continued support for DINT’s work and its approach to drug enforcement in Douglas County. He also noted that DINT has one of the highest drug plant seizure rates in Oregon.

DINT was formed in October 1989 as part of a coordinated response to substance abuse issues in Douglas County. The unit is supported by partnerships that include the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County District Attorney’s Office, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon National Guard, Oregon State Police, Bureau of Land Management, and the Roseburg Police Department. DINT’s responsibilities include investigating state and federal controlled substance violations, as well as providing training to local police and fire agencies, the public, and private sector organizations.

For more information about the Illegal Marijuana Market Enforcement Grant Program, visit the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission website at: https://www.oregon.gov/cjc/imme/pages/default.aspx.

14TH ANNUAL FOUR CHAPLAINS SERVICE FEBRUARY 7TH

The 14th annual Four Chaplains Service will be held on Saturday, February 7th.

Organizer Jim Little said the story of the Four Chaplains is a story of sacrifice, courage and love for others that must be told to each generation of Americans. Little said he is very pleased that this important story has become more well known in the community than it was in 2011, when the local service began.

Since 2016, fifty-seven outstanding members of the community have been inducted into the Four Chaplains Legion of Honor. Many organizations and individuals have been given certificates of appreciation for their part in the presentations of the Four Chaplains story. The names of these individuals and organizations have been enshrined in the plaque at the Roseburg American Legion Post 16, and on the mural on the wall of the Roseburg Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2468 war memorial.

The Four Chaplains Service will be held at Westside Christian Church on West Harvard Avenue in Roseburg. A “meet and greet” will begin at 11:30 a.m. with the service starting at 12:00 pm. For more information on the event, call 672-4635 or email: gunnerlittle@aol.com

Saving Grace Humane Society Announces 17 Seized Dogs Now Available for Adoption

Saving Grace Humane Society announced that 17 dogs seized in August 2025, in coordination with the Roseburg Police Department and Douglas County Animal Control, are now available for adoption.

According to Saving Grace, the dogs were taken into care following a suspected neglect case and have spent several months at the shelter receiving medical treatment, enrichment, and socialization. With the dogs now formally released into the shelter’s custody, they are eligible for adoption.

“Having the dogs formally released into our care means we can finally focus on their next chapter,” said Jennifer Barta, executive director of Saving Grace Humane Society.

The dogs are available for adoption during regular shelter hours, Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. Saving Grace said adopters should be prepared to provide patience and consistency as the dogs transition into home environments. The shelter’s canine team will offer guidance to help support successful placements.

Saving Grace credited community support and donations for helping cover the medical care and daily needs of the dogs during their recovery period and expressed appreciation to local agencies and residents who assisted throughout the process.

More information about adopting the dogs is available by visiting Saving Grace Humane Society during open hours or through the shelter’s website.

Two-Day Ham Radio General License Class Scheduled in Glide

A two-day Amateur Radio General License class will be held February 14 and 15, 2026, at the Glide Fire Station, offering licensed amateur radio operators an opportunity to upgrade their credentials and expand their operating privileges.

The class runs from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day and is instructed by KJ7EAT, a registered instructor with the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). The course is designed to prepare participants for the General class amateur radio exam.

The General license is the second tier of amateur radio licensing issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Participants must already hold a valid Technician license to be eligible for the upgrade. The General license allows operators broader access to high-frequency (HF) bands, enabling long-distance and international communications.

The training will take place at the Glide Fire Station, located at 18910 North Umpqua Highway in Glide. A minimum class size of five participants is required for the course to be held.

Meals will be provided as a potluck. Attendees are asked to bring a main dish or side, along with drinks or snacks to share.

Course materials are required, and additional details about books and preparation will be provided upon registration. Those interested in attending can RSVP or request more information by emailing DougcoARES@gmail.com.

This class provides a structured, in-person opportunity for local amateur radio operators to advance their skills, increase their on-air privileges, and strengthen communications capabilities within the community.

A link to the required book for the class can be found here.

Limited Time Events

• In Studio Classes @ Create & Sip Studio | January 8 - May 17th | Every Week on Wed - Sun
• "Shifting Landscapes" + Add'l Exhibits @ Umpqua Valley Arts | January 9 - March 6 | Every week Tuesday - Friday | 10 AM - 6 PM | Link

Monday, January 12th

• DJ Trivia Night @ Workman's Bar & Smokehouse | 7PM
• Open Mic Night @ Little Brothers Pub | 6 - 8 PM
• Live Music: Erik Schnautz @ Two Shy Brewing | 6 - 8 PM | Link
• Open Mic Night at Little Brothers Pub, hosted by Benjammin' | 6 - 9 PM | Link

Tuesday, January 13th

• Bingo @ Roseburg Elks Lodge #326 | 6:30 PM
• DJ Bingo @ Workman's Bar and Smokehouse | 6 PM
• DJ Trivia @ Urban NY Pizza & Grill | 7 PM
• Free Line Dancing Lessons - Elements Lounge @ Seven Feathers Casino Resort | Every week on Tuesday | 7 - 9 PM | Link
• Open Mic Night @ Kodiak Bar & Grill | Every week on Tuesday @ 6 - 8 PM
• Tuesdays! Free Line Dancing Lessons at Elements Lounge in Seven Feathers Casino Resort | 7 - 9 PM | Link
• Live Music: Mark Malefyt @ Two Shy Brewing | 6 - 8 PM | Link
• Vine Katz Duo Sings Jazz at Abacela | 2 - 4 PM | Link

Wednesday, January 14th

• DJ Trivia @ Backside Brewing Co. | 6 - 7:30 PM
• Karaoke/Open Mic Night @ Idle Hour Tavern | 9 PM - 12:30 AM
• Open Mic at Brix | Every Wednesday | 6 - 8 PM | Link
• Karaoke Night at The Wild Rose Saloon | 7 - 10 PM | Link
• Trivia Night @​ Lookingglass Brewery | 6 - 9 PM
• Trivia Night @​ Little Brothers Pub | 6 PM
• Bingo @ Roseburg Senior Center | (Every Wed and Fri) - Doors Open at 5 PM, starts at 6:30PM. Food available. Ages 7+. $1 for non-members.
• Line Dancing at Canyon Creek Tavern | 6 - 8 PM | Link

Thursday, January 15th

• DJ Trivia @ North Forty Beer Company | 7 - 8:30 PM
• Kick Up the Dust - Line Dancing Lessons @ Workman's Bar & Smokehouse | 7 - 8 PM
• Karaoke Night at Kodiak | Every Thursday and Saturday | 8 PM
• DJ Bingo @ Brix Bar & Grill | 7 - 9 PM | Link
• Draper Jam Night | 8 - 11:30 PM | Link
• Thirsty Thursday Cornhole Night @ Lookingglass Brewery | Every week on Thursday | 6 - 8 PM | Link
• All Age Karaoke Night at Urban NY Pizza & Grill | 7 - 9 PM | Link

Friday, January 16th

• Friday Pizzas! @ Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards | 12 - 4PM
• Karaoke Night @ Winchester Pub & Grill | 8 - 11 PM
• Karaoke Night @ Workman's Bar and Smokehouse | 9 PM - 12 AM
• Bingo @ Roseburg Senior Center | (Every Wed and Fri) - Doors Open at 5 PM, starts at 6:30PM. Food available. Ages 7+. $1 for non-members.
• Karaoke Night at Kodiak | Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday | 8 PM
• Cooking Class: Wayne's Famous Bratwurst @ Melrose Vineyards | 5:30 - 8 PM | Link
• The Ashes LIVE at Elements, Seven Feathers Casino | 9 PM - 1 AM | Link
• Art & Wine Tasting Events Mindpower Gallery | 4 - 7 PM | 517 Fir Ave (Hwy 38) Reedsport | Link

Saturday, January 17th

• Umpqua Valley Farmers Market | 9AM - 1PM | SE Jackson St | Link
• Roseburg Saturday Market - Outside Winter Market | 10AM - 2PM | Harvard Ave - Rife's Home Furniture Parking Lot (Every Saturday until December 20th)
• Karaoke Night @​ Brix Bar & Grill | (Every Saturday) @ 7 - 10PM
• Karaoke Night @ Lookingglass Brewery | 6 - 8PM | Link
• Karaoke Night at Kodiak | Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday | 8 PM
• Karaoke Night with KJ Stone | 7 - 11 PM | Link
• Borrowed Time LIVE at Workman's Bar & Smokehouse | 8 PM - 12 AM | Link
• The Ashes LIVE at Elements, Seven Feathers Casino | 9 PM - 1 AM | Link

Sunday, January 18th

• DJ Trivia Night @ Brix Bar and Grill | Every Sunday | 6 - 8 PM
• Open-Mic Night @ The Rosebud Theatre | 4 - 8 PM | Link
• Live Music: Chrysalis Sisters @ Melrose Vineyards | 3 - 5 PM | Link
• Third Sunday BLUEGRASS Jam from 1 – 4 pm at Sutherlin Senior Center | 1 - 4 PM | Link
• DJ Trivia at Elements Lounge, Seven Feathers Casino | 7 - 8 PM | Link

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That is the scoop for this Monday morning. Enjoy your day!

- The Roseburg Receiver Team