November 3, 2026

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

Nearly half of Douglas County’s registered voters have returned their ballots for the November 3 general election, with the latest county update showing 44,518 ballots received.

The participation rate stands at 49.77%, putting the county 0.57 percentage points ahead of its pace at the same point in the 2022 gubernatorial general election.

With Election Day on Tuesday, county officials are reminding voters to pay close attention to ballot return deadlines, particularly if they plan to use the mail.

Returning Your Ballot

Douglas County has 17 official ballot drop sites available for voters to return their ballots by 8 p.m. Tuesday, November 3. Ballots placed in official drop boxes are collected and delivered directly to election officials for processing.

Voters can also return ballots through the U.S. Postal Service, but dropping an envelope in a blue collection box does not guarantee it will receive that day’s postmark. Check the posted pickup times, since mail deposited after the final collection may not be postmarked until the next postal business day.

For those mailing ballots close to the deadline, election officials recommend going inside a post office and asking for a hand-cancellation stamp, or manual postmark.

Mailed ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received by the county elections office within seven days afterward to qualify for counting. Oregon’s Secretary of State encourages voters to use an official drop box as the deadline approaches.

A Signature Notice Does Not Mean Your Ballot Cannot Count

Election workers compare the signature on each ballot return envelope with signatures in the voter’s registration record. An unsigned envelope or a signature that cannot be verified triggers a notice explaining how the voter can correct the issue.

Voters who receive a notice should follow its instructions and contact the county elections office with questions. The process, known as “curing” a signature, gives voters an opportunity to resolve the challenge so their ballot can be counted.

For this election, the deadline to resolve ballot challenges is November 24, which is 21 days after Election Day.

The county’s update also outlined safeguards used during ballot processing, including controlled checkpoints, review procedures and video surveillance at designated election facilities. Those measures help maintain a documented chain of custody as ballots move through the process.

Voters can check their ballot’s status through Oregon’s My Vote website.

An estimated 560 Douglas County students experienced homelessness during the 2024-25 school year. A public forum this month will examine the challenges facing those young people and local efforts to help them find stable housing.

The League of Women Voters of Umpqua Valley will hold the free forum Monday, November 16, at 6 p.m. at the Roseburg Public Library. Sponsored by Creating Community Resilience, the event will include presentations, a panel discussion and time for questions from the public.

Thomas McGregor, youth and housing project manager at Peace at Home Advocacy Center, will lead the presentations and moderate the panel. McGregor has served since 2021 as co-chair of the Douglas County Homeless Youth Solutions Initiative, known as HYSI.

The initiative brings together local agencies and organizations to address immediate needs and coordinate longer-term support for young people experiencing homelessness. It operates through Creating Community Resilience, a collaborative community network.

A focus of the evening will be HYSI’s newly published “Strategic Roadmap,” which outlines goals for improving how the community serves youth facing housing challenges. Presenters will review local data, discuss the roadmap’s recommendations and provide updates on local projects.

The panel will include K–12 education personnel, crisis response specialists and young people with lived experience of housing instability.

The forum is part of local recognition of National Homeless Youth Awareness Month. Mayor Larry Rich is scheduled to read a proclamation at the November 9 Roseburg City Council meeting recognizing November as Homeless Youth Awareness Month.

The proclamation puts the estimated number of Douglas County K–12 students who experienced homelessness during the 2024–25 school year at 560, or 4.3%. It also describes how housing instability can disrupt education, make basic needs harder to meet and expose young people to trauma and exploitation.

The November 16 forum is open to everyone, with no admission charge. More information about the League of Women Voters of Umpqua Valley is available at lwvuv.org.

Cascade Community Credit Union has awarded more than $30,000 in Chalkboard Grants to 81 Douglas County educators, helping pay for classroom projects, supplies and learning experiences.

The program provides grants of up to $500. At Roseburg High School, three educators are combining their funding to give students a closer look at pieces of the solar system.

Physics and astronomy educators Shalena Lewis, Krystal Corum and Devin Bowen collaborated on the History of the Solar System Inquiry Lab, a project that will allow students to examine real meteorites and investigate how they formed.

Students will work at laboratory stations equipped with magnets, balances, magnification tools and polarized microscopy. Working in teams, they will study the specimens’ properties, collect evidence and develop explanations about their origins and the processes that shaped the solar system.

According to the credit union, the project is expected to reach more than 500 students each year. The materials will also be available for future classes.

“Investing in our educators is an investment in the future of Douglas County,” said Cascade Community Credit Union CEO Lynn Ager.

The Chalkboard Grant program helps educators cover expenses that may be difficult to fund through regular school budgets. The Roseburg High School project is one example of how teachers are using the awards to bring hands-on activities into their classrooms.

More information about the credit union and its community programs is available at cascadecu.org.

WINSTON, Ore. - Wildlife Safari says it has begun making improvements and is working toward regaining accreditation after the Association of Zoos and Aquariums declined to grant the park continued accreditation.

In a statement released November 2, the nonprofit wildlife park said it is addressing issues identified during the review process, including operational and facility infrastructure improvements. The statement did not detail the specific concerns behind AZA’s decision or provide a timeline for completing the work.

Wildlife Safari said it is participating in AZA’s Pathway Toward Membership Program, using the association’s guidance and resources to prepare for future accreditation.

“While we are disappointed in this outcome, we are focused on the future,” said Pat Markham, chairman of Wildlife Safari’s board of directors. “We are committed to making the necessary improvements and look forward to earning accreditation once again.”

Dr. Benji Alcantar, the park’s lead veterinarian, said veterinary and animal care staff are taking the findings seriously.

“The health and welfare of the animals in our care remain our highest priority,” Alcantar said. “Our veterinary and animal care teams remain dedicated to providing excellent care. We recognize the importance of the accreditation process and take the concerns identified by AZA seriously.”

The park also emphasized its continuing work in cheetah conservation. According to Wildlife Safari, its program supports breeding, research and public education, while cheetah ambassador presentations introduce thousands of visitors each year to the challenges the species faces in the wild.

Wildlife Safari said it plans to continue investing in those efforts and working with conservation partners.

Markham thanked community members for their support following the accreditation decision.

“The encouragement we have received from everyone means a great deal to us,” he said. “We sincerely thank our community for standing with us as we move forward.”

The park said it intends to share updates on its progress.

Wildlife Safari occupies 600 acres in Winston and includes a 4.5-mile drive-through route. According to the release, the park remains open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More information is available at wildlifesafari.net or by calling Guest Services at 541-679-6761, extension 3203.

SALEM, Ore. - As temperatures drop and Oregonians begin relying more heavily on their heating systems, state fire officials are reminding residents about a potentially deadly danger that can go unnoticed inside the home.

November is Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month, and the Oregon State Fire Marshal is encouraging residents to check their heating equipment, test carbon monoxide alarms, and take precautions to prevent exposure to the odorless, colorless gas.

According to the agency, 62% of carbon monoxide-related emergencies in Oregon occur during the fall and winter months. Of those incidents, 26% happen in the fall and 36% occur during winter, when furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and other fuel-burning appliances are used more frequently.

In 2025, Oregon fire agencies reported responding to 417 carbon monoxide-related calls statewide, based on reports submitted by 83% of the state's more than 300 fire agencies.

Data from the Oregon Health Authority show that carbon monoxide poisoning causes an average of 18 deaths and nearly 41 hospitalizations or emergency room visits in Oregon each year.

"Carbon monoxide gives no warning; you cannot see it, smell it, or taste it," State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. "As we enter peak heating season, taking a few minutes to inspect fuel-burning appliances and test your carbon monoxide alarms can mean the difference between life and death."

Why Carbon Monoxide Is More Dangerous During Cold Weather

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, wood, heating oil, kerosene, or gasoline do not burn completely.

The gas can build up inside homes and other enclosed spaces, particularly when heating equipment is malfunctioning or fuel-burning devices are used without proper ventilation.

Fire officials say several common activities can increase the risk of exposure during colder months.

Furnaces, fireplaces, and wood or pellet stoves that have not been properly maintained can allow carbon monoxide to enter living spaces. Portable generators and other gasoline-powered equipment can also produce dangerous amounts of the gas if operated indoors or too close to a building.

Another concern is warming up vehicles inside garages. Even when a garage door is open, running an engine inside an attached garage can allow carbon monoxide to enter the home.

Symptoms Can Be Mistaken for the Flu

One of the challenges with carbon monoxide poisoning is recognizing the symptoms before exposure becomes severe.

Early symptoms can resemble the flu, often without a fever. Common warning signs include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Weakness or unusual fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, or an upset stomach
• Chest pain
• Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly

As exposure continues, carbon monoxide can affect a person's ability to think and make decisions, potentially preventing them from recognizing the danger or escaping without help.

If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds or poisoning is suspected, residents should immediately move outside to fresh air and call 911. They should not reenter the building until emergency responders determine it is safe.

Simple Steps Can Help Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The Oregon State Fire Marshal recommends several precautions to help keep households safe as the heating season begins.

• Check carbon monoxide alarms. Make sure working alarms are installed in the appropriate locations throughout the home, particularly near sleeping areas.
• Test alarms monthly. Use the test button to confirm alarms are functioning and replace batteries or alarm units according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Inspect heating equipment. Have furnaces, fireplaces, chimneys, and other fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a qualified professional.
• Keep generators outside. Portable generators should be operated outdoors, at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents.
• Never use outdoor cooking equipment indoors. Charcoal grills and other outdoor fuel-burning devices can produce deadly carbon monoxide levels in enclosed spaces.
• Avoid running vehicles in garages. Never leave a vehicle running inside an attached garage, even with the garage door open.

Oregon law also includes carbon monoxide alarm requirements for certain homes that are sold or rented. Required alarms must be located near sleeping areas, including within 15 feet of bedroom doors.

Although carbon monoxide exposure is a concern throughout the year, fire officials say the increased use of heating equipment during fall and winter makes this an especially important time for residents to review their household safety measures.

Additional information about carbon monoxide prevention and home safety is available through the Oregon State Fire Marshal's website.

ROSEBURG, Ore. - The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is inviting landowners, agricultural producers, and community organizations to a free demonstration in Roseburg later this month showcasing a way to dispose of woody debris while producing less smoke than traditional open burning.

The demonstration will take place Friday, November 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Abacela Winery, located at 12500 Lookingglass Road in Roseburg.

The event will feature an air curtain incinerator (ACI), a specialized piece of equipment designed to burn woody material such as branches, brush, and other vegetation left behind after harvesting, pruning, or land management activities.

For vineyard owners, orchard operators, and woodland managers, dealing with leftover vegetation can be a challenge. Allowing woody debris to accumulate can also create favorable conditions for certain pest insects that may damage nearby trees or crops.

Air curtain incinerators offer an alternative to traditional burn piles or chipping. The equipment uses a high-velocity curtain of air over the burning material to help contain smoke and improve combustion, resulting in lower smoke and particulate emissions compared to open burning.

During the demonstration, attendees will have an opportunity to see the equipment operating firsthand and learn about its potential uses.

ODF representatives will explain how air curtain incinerators work, how to operate them, and the benefits they can provide for managing woody debris. The demonstration will also cover biochar, a charcoal-like material produced during the burning process that can be used to improve soil.

The event is intended for a wide range of participants, including fire departments, local governments, natural area managers, Firewise communities, prescribed burn associations, nurseries, orchards, vineyards, arborists, and private landowners.

Attendance is free, but advance registration is requested. Visitors are welcome to drop in anytime during the two-hour demonstration.

Those interested in attending can register and find additional information at tiny.cc/ACI-demos.

For questions or assistance with registration, contact the Oregon Department of Forestry at InvasivePests@odf.oregon.gov.

Limited Time Events

• 2026 Annual Members' Exhibit: an exhibition of current work by UVA Members @ Umpqua Valley Arts | October 30 - December 24th | Link

Monday, November 2nd

• DJ Trivia Night @ Workman's Bar & Smokehouse | 7 pm
• Open Mic Night @ Little Brothers Pub | 6 - 8 pm
• Celebrate Recovery | Westside Christian Church | Dinner at 5:30, Large group at 6:30.
• Monday Night Auxiliary Bingo | Winston VFW | 4:30 pm | must have papers by 5:30, $17 for all games.

Tuesday, November 3rd

• Bingo @ Roseburg Elks Lodge #326 | 6:30 pm
• Open Mic Night @ Kodiak Bar & Grill | 6 - 8 pm | Link
• 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
• Celebrate Recovery | Winston Assembly of God | Dinner at 5:30, Large group at 6:30.
• Umpqua Valley Fly Fishers Monthly Meeting | Umpqua Valley Arts Center on Harvard Ave | 5:30 - 8:30 pm | There will be speakers, raffles, trivia questions, and fun. Sandwiches and drinks available for purchase.

Wednesday, November 4th

• 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
• 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 6:30 pm. Food available. Ages 7+.
• Celebrate Recovery | Redeemers (Old movie theater) | Dinner at 5:30, Large group at 6:30.
• Wednesday Night Karaoke with Mr. Michael | Winston VFW | 5 - 9 pm| 21+

Thursday, November 5th

• DJ Trivia @ North Forty Beer Company | 7 - 8:30 pm
• Karaoke Night @ Workman's Bar and Smokehouse | 9 pm - 12 am
• Karaoke Night at Kodiak | Every Thursday and Saturday | 8 pm
• DJ Bingo @ Brix Bar & Grill | 7 - 9 pm
• Thirsty Thursday Cornhole Night @ Lookingglass Brewery | Every week on Thursday | 6 - 8 pm | Link
• Al-Anon Meeting in Oakland (Weekly) | Oakland Ice House - 212 Lucust St | 2 - 3 PM
• Live Music: Vern Thompson @​ Spire Mountain Cellars | 1 pm
• Live Music: Acoustic Blend @​ The Rosebud Theatre | 6 pm

Friday, November 6th

• Friday Pizzas! @ Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards | 12 - 4 pm
• Karaoke Night @ Winchester Pub & Grill | 8 - 11 pm
• Kick Up the Dust - Line Dancing Lessons @ Workman's Bar & Smokehouse | 7 - 8 pm
• Bingo @ Roseburg Senior Center | (Every Wed and Fri) - Doors Open at 5 pm, starts at 6:30 pm. Food available. Ages 7+.
• Karaoke Night at Kodiak | Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday | 8 pm
• Friday Night Live Music | Winston VFW
• Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Bonanza Hunting Gear Raffles, Games, Silent Auction | Diamond Lake Resort | Link
• Live Music: NW Women Rhythm & Blues @​ The Rosebud Theatre | 6 pm

Saturday, November 7th

• Umpqua Valley Farmers Market | 9 am - 1 pm | SE Jackson St | Link
• Roseburg Saturday Farmers Market | 2525 W Harvard Ave | 9 am - 2:30 pm | Link
• Karaoke Night @​ Brix Bar & Grill | (Every Saturday) @ 7 - 10 pm
• Karaoke Night @ Lookingglass Brewery | 6 - 8 pm | Link
• Karaoke Night at Kodiak | Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday | 8 pm
• Saturday Night Karaoke with DJ Dan | Winston VFW | 5 - 9 pm | 21+
• Fall Skins Game @ Bar Run Golf & RV Resort | 11 am | Link
• Fall Craft Fait at the Douglas County Fairgrounds | November 7 & 8th | Link
• Live Music: stop.drop.rewind, TomBoy, Blood Jacuzzi @​ The Rosebud Theatre | 6 pm
• Live Music: Saucy @​ Workman's Bar & Smokehouse | 8pm
• Live Music: Devon Rockholt @​ Lookingglass Brewery | 6 - 8 pm
• Live Music: Debra Kay & Jason Heald @​ Two Shy Brewing | 6:30 - 8:30 pm
• Coffee with Christie (Winston Mayor) | 10 am - 12 pm | Winston City Hall Annex | Coffee and cookies will be available.

Sunday, November 8th

• Jazz Sundays @ Abacela | 2 - 4 pm | Link
• Fall Craft Fair at the Douglas County Fairgrounds | November 7 & 8th | Link

• We now have 25,074 Facebook group members!! Thank you all so much for being here!
• There is now an opportunity to advertise your local business with The Roseburg Receiver! If your company is interested, please email info@theroseburgreceiver.com. Your ad will be featured in The Roseburg Scoop emails, videos, website, and much more.

The Roseburg Receiver is powered by the community. If you have local news, helpful information, an incident update, or an upcoming event to share, please email us at info@theroseburgreceiver.com so others can stay informed.

Two quick reminders:

• Protect privacy: For public safety or incident-related posts, please do not share personal or identifying information (names, addresses, license plates, etc.). Event posts, community announcements, and press releases may include names when appropriate.
• Safety first: Never post while driving

Want to contribute more regularly or become an author on theroseburgreceiver.com?
Email: community@theroseburgreceiver.com

That is the scoop for this Tuesday morning. Have a great day!

- The Roseburg Receiver Team