The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
Willamette Valley Weather
Today– A slight chance of showers before 2pm, then a chance of rain, mainly after 5pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 60. South wind around 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Thursday– Rain likely, mainly after 5pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 68. Southwest wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Friday– Rain likely, mainly before 11am, then a chance of showers after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. North wind 3 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Saturday– A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.
Sunday– Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.
Linn County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Neglect of Animals
Linn County Undersheriff Michelle Duncan reports yesterday around 9:55 a.m., deputies served a search warrant for animal neglect in the 4100 block of Shimanek Bridge Drive, east of Scio. Deputies received information multiple cows were in various stages of neglect and some were deceased.
Early last week, deputies began their investigation and obtained enough information for a search warrant to enter the location and seize any neglected animals. Upon arrival, deputies quickly learned multiple animals had been neglected for quite some time. Some were too weak to stand without help and stood among carcasses of others.
Fourteen animals were found deceased to include eleven cows, two chickens and one dog. Six cows and two dogs were seized from the location, but one of those cows did not survive through the night. Deputies continue to work closely with a veterinarian in hopes of getting the remaining animals on a healthier path.
During the search warrant, deputies arrested the owner Lynette McConnell, 66, for 20 counts of Animal Neglect, in the First Degree and transported her to the Linn County Jail. Linn County Sheriff’s Office
Eugene Police Seek Help To Identify Man Who Threatened Lowe’s Employee
Eugene Police made a public appeal for help identifying a man who threatened a store employee with a knife when confronted about taking power tools without paying for them.
Officers responded to the 3500 block of W. 11th Avenue on October 20 around 7:45 p.m. to investigate.
“Responding police officers received information that a male suspect exited the store without attempting to pay for power tools he had taken,” police said. “The suspect was contacted by a 43-year-old male employee who he threatened with a knife before leaving the area in an SUV that was waiting for him out front.”
The vehicle was as a light-colored, grey or silver, SUV with a spare tire on the back, similar in style to a 2006-2012 Toyota Rav4, police said.
Anyone with information on the identity of the suspect is asked to contact Detective Branden Esch at (541) 682-5176 or by email at BEsch@Eugene-OR.gov
Public Safety Officer Assaulted
On 10/25/21 at about 11:00am, a Lane County Sheriff’s Deputy patrolling the area of the Whitely Boat Landing near River Rd. observed a black Nissan Altima that had been previously reported as stolen. The vehicle was parked and a male, identified as 36 year old Nicholas Christopher Jenkins, was standing next to it. The deputy recognized Jenkins from previous law enforcement contacts.
Deputies were able to establish reasonable suspicion that Jenkins was involved with the stolen vehicle and made contact with him. As they attempted to detain him, Jenkins punched one of the deputies in the face, striking the deputy near his eye. Deputies were able to effectively deploy a Taser on Jenkins and get him into custody. Methamphetamine paraphernalia was located in Jenkins’ pocket.
Jenkins was evaluated by medics then transported and lodged at the Lane County Jail on charges including Assault on a Public Safety Officer, Resisting Arrest and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle.
The deputy received minor injuries but was able to complete the remainder of his shift. Lane Co. Sheriff’s Office
Lane County residents encouraged to comment on proposed county redistricting maps
Lane County’s Independent Redistricting Committee (IRC) is seeking public comment as it works to select which of four possible redistricting maps to provide to the Board of County Commissioners for further discussion.
The IRC will meet on Thursday, October 28, at 6:00 p.m. to choose up to three (3) of the proposed maps. The maps included in the final selection will be presented to commissioners on November 9.
The maps can be viewed at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/IRCMaps. People who would like to provide public comment can participate in the IRC’s virtual meeting (log-in information here) or provide written public comment to judy.williams@lanecountyor.gov.
Additional opportunities for public comment will be available as the Board of County Commissioners takes up the discussion of the maps recommended by the IRC.
About the Independent Redistricting Committee
Lane County’s Home Rule Charter requires that boundaries for Lane County commissioner districts be evaluated and updated at least once every ten years. The last redistricting effort was completed in 2011. The current redistricting process is being led by a committee of Lane County community members.
The Independent Redistricting Committee (IRC) is composed of fifteen (15) members. The IRC is responsible for presenting up to three (3) redistricting options to the Board of County Commissioners in November.
The IRC is only responsible for redistricting the five county commissioner districts. The Sheriff, District Attorney and Tax Assessor are elected by all Lane County voters and do not have sub-districts.
The Home Rule Charter states: “In accordance with Federal, State, or County census figures, the boundaries of the five districts shall be drawn by the board of commissioners so as not to deny any person equal protection of the law.”
Information about the IRC can be found at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/IRC. — Lane Co. Government
Oregon reports 1,557 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 23 new deaths
There are 23 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 4,318. The Oregon Health Authority reported 1,557 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 bringing the state total to 361,240.
The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (4), Benton (44), Clackamas (113), Clatsop (3), Columbia (22), Coos (24), Crook (24), Curry (14), Deschutes (129), Douglas (41), Gilliam (3), Harney (3), Hood River (11), Jackson (86), Jefferson (15), Josephine (23), Klamath (65), Lake (15), Lane (145), Lincoln (6), Linn (66), Malheur (34), Marion (155), Morrow (9), Multnomah (191), Polk (57), Sherman (5), Tillamook (2), Umatilla (49), Union (4), Wasco (11), Washington (113), and Yamhill (71).
Due to an unexpected technical glitch, Opera, the COVID-19 case database, was down from 6 p.m. on Oct. 22 through 9 p.m. Oct. 23. As a result, daily case counts for those days were lower than expected.
That disruption accounts for today’s higher case tally, which arises as local public health authorities work through that backlog of cases.
Lane Events Center Offering Drive-Thru Booster Shots To People 18+
Lane County Public Health has opened of a drive-through clinic to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to people with mobility needs or who have difficulty navigating large indoor spaces.
The drive-through clinic at the Lane Events Center opened October 26. The public can begin scheduling appointments now.
Hours of operation are 12 p.m to 2 p.m Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and 10 a.m to 2 p.m on Friday.
“We are pleased to open this drive-through vaccination facility for those in Lane County who need better access than our walk-in clinics can currently afford,” said Lisa Chambliss, Community Health Nurse. “This drive-through clinic is considerably smaller than what people may recall from earlier this spring at Autzen Stadium or the Fairgrounds. It will only be 2-3 lanes so we ask that all who are able to use our walk-in clinics at various locations around Lane County to please use those locations. We are excited to be able to provide drive-through capacity to those who really need it.”
Effective October 26, Lane County Public Health is offering boost doses of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to people 18 years of age and older who are 6 months past the last shot of their initial series.
“Individuals 18 years and older who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are also eligible for a boost dose two months following their initial dose,” the county said. “Further, the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control have authorized ‘mix and match’ booster doses for all approved vaccines; individuals who received one vaccine brand for their primary series may receive another approved vaccine brand.”
Learn more on the county COVID website.
Gov. Brown receives COVID-19 booster
Gov. Brown received a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot Tuesday and encouraged other eligible Oregonians to discuss booster shots with their physicians.
“Vaccinations are our way out of this pandemic,” Brown said from Salem Health’s Edgewater Clinic. “If you still have questions about getting vaccinated, call your doctor or health care provider today to get your questions answered.”
Brown had the Johnson & Johnson shot earlier this year, and received the Moderna vaccine for her booster shot.
The Federal Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control have approved “mixing” coronavirus vaccinations for boosters.
Booster shots are recommended for people who received a two-shot vaccination more than six months ago and are:
- 65 years old and older,
- 18 years old and older residing in a long-term care facility, or
- 50-64 years old with underlying medical conditions or at increased risk of social inequities.
Those who may receive a booster after six months include:
- People 18-49 with underlying medical conditions or at increased risk of social inequities, or
- People 18-49 who are at higher risk of exposure and transmission of the coronavirus due to their occupations
Brown was eligible for the booster shot because she received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine; recipients of that vaccine are eligible to receive a booster two months after having the shot.
Brown said Tuesday she does not expect the state to mandate booster shots, but instead to focus on informing people who are eligible.
Mass vaccination sites are also not expected for booster shots. Coronavirus vaccines are available at pharmacies and doctor’s offices across the state.
Brown also received a flu shot at the same time as getting her COVID-19 vaccine booster.
“I am extremely grateful for the protection the Johnson & Johnson vaccine has given me,” Brown said. “And now, I am grateful to have received extra protection against both COVID-19 and the flu with the Moderna booster shot and the flu shot.”
Oregonians urged to plan ahead as much of the state faces increased risk of flooding, landslides and debris flows following wildfire season
Oregon is entering its rainy season while recovering from the recent devastation caused by wildfires. The Oregon Office of Emergency Management is warning people living and traveling in and around areas impacted by wildfires about the risk of flooding, landslides and debris flows and urging Oregonians to sign up for emergency alerts, exercise caution and plan ahead.
Wildfires dramatically change the landscape and ground conditions, which can lead to a higher risk of flooding. Natural, unburned vegetation and soil normally act as a sponge during a rainfall event. But after an intense wildfire, burned vegetation and charred soil form a water repellent layer, blocking water absorption.
As a result, properties located below or downstream of the burn areas are at an increased risk for flooding and debris flows. Even areas not traditionally flood-prone are at risk of flooding for up to several years after a wildfire.
“The impacts of wildfires are often felt for years after the flames are out. For those in or near these areas, threats like flash floods and debris flows can happen quickly and with little to no warning,” said Oregon Office of Emergency Management Director Andrew Phelps. “Leave if you are told to evacuate or you feel it is unsafe to remain in your home. Have an evacuation route planned that is least likely to be impacted by flash flooding and debris flow and stay informed: Sign up for OR-Alert to receive emergency alerts and pay attention to weather forecasts in your area.”
OEM also recommends developing an emergency plan – for floods and other hazards – that includes building and maintaining emergency kits for home, work and vehicles. When a disaster occurs, it’s unrealistic to expect first responders will be able to reach everyone within hours or even days. Oregonians should plan on being self-sufficient for at least two weeks following any type of disaster. OEM’s 2 Weeks Ready program offers several resources.
The U.S. Geological Survey provides maps showing the likelihood of debris flow in different areas around specific wildfires. The recent atmospheric rivers affecting the Pacific Northwest have proven the rainy season is already underway, and recent data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows a high possibility of more La Niña-related events continuing throughout this fall and winter.
Floods are the most common and expensive natural disaster in the U.S. Just an inch of water in an average-sized home can cause more than $25,000 in damage. Most homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy that protects homes and belongings from floodwater damage so residents can recover after a storm. Policies typically take 30 days to go into effect, so it is important for residents to plan in advance.
For more information about flood risk and mitigation, visit Ready.gov/floods. For information on landslides and debris flow, visit Ready.gov/landslides-debris-flow. For information on flood insurance, visit Fema.gov/flood-insurance. — Oregon Office of Emergency Management
Controlled burns to reduce forest fuels and lower risk of high-intensity wildfires are now underway
Oregonians in forested areas may see smoke from a number of controlled burns – known as prescribed burns – this fall and winter. Forest landowners use prescribed fire to eliminate woody fuels that build up on their land from forest thinning and after timber harvests.
More than a million acres burned in the Labor Day wildfires of 2020 in Oregon, with more than 800,000 more acres this year. Much of that was in prime forestlands. Landowners have been trying to salvage their investments by harvesting whatever dead or dying trees are large enough and not badly burned enough to still be marketable. In some cases, the harvest volume exceeds the average annual harvest by a wide margin. This results in a larger amount of slash or unmarketable felled snags needing to be burned to clear land for replanting and to reduce wildfire risk.
This year’s fall burning season continues to coincide with ongoing concerns related to COVID-19. Smoke may worsen symptoms for people coping with compromised health or lung function due to COVID-19. However, thanks to the wide availability of vaccines that are highly effective in preventing severe illness and death from COVID-19 infections, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) believes it is appropriate at this point in the pandemic to move forward with controlled burns as regulated by ODF smoke management rules. The updated smoke management rules minimize smoke from entering certain populated cities and areas known as Smoke Sensitive Receptor Areas (SSRAs) and encourage proactive communication.
To protect Oregonians, trained professionals, monitor controlled burns to ensure that fires are lit when fire danger is low and weather conditions are favorable for protecting SSRAs communities from smoke. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and partner agencies monitor smoke levels and air quality across the state. DEQ’s Air Quality Index provides current air quality conditions categorized as good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy, very unhealthy and hazardous. Sign up for text of email alerts about air pollution. View current air quality conditions online or by searching for OregonAir on your smart phone.
ODF has developed a Statewide Communication Framework for helping Oregonians: (1) understand why we burn, (2) health risks of smoke, (3) ways to avoid smoke, (4) where burning is taking place each day, and (5) where smoke is impacting communities. This communication plan is updated annually, distributed to partners and is posted to the ODF website here: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/board/Documents/smac/20211026-statewide-smoke-communications-framework.pdf
In addition to the Statewide Communication Framework, ODF and DEQ recommend communities that are SSRAs and have experienced repeated smoke incidents and/or intrusions in the past collaboratively develop a community response plan and program. DEQ received special legislative funding to assist with the development and implementation of community response plans.
DEQ, with support from our partners, is seeking proposals from local governments to develop comprehensive community response plans for smoke. DEQ will award approximately $300,000 for community response plan development and the identification of potential mitigation strategies that could be deployed to protect the public and most vulnerable from prescribed fire smoke. Projects must be conducted within the timeframe of Jan. 1, 2022 through March 30, 2023. DEQ expects to award multiple contracts and will consider grant requests up to $40,000. For grant requirements and additional information, please review the Smoke Management – Community Response Plan Development Projects Request for Proposals.
For more information, visit:
ODF – https://www.oregon.gov/odf/Fire/pages/Burn.aspx
DEQ – https://www.oregon.gov/deq/aq/Pages/Burning.aspx
OHA COVID-19 website – https://govstatus.egov.com/OR-OHA-COVID-19
Oregon Delivery Contractors Sue Amazon
Two delivery businesses that delivered packages for Amazon in the Portland area sued the tech giant Monday, alleging it imposed “unsafe” and “unreasonable” conditions on the contractors and their drivers, throttling the businesses and injuring personnel.
The two companies, Beaverton-based Triton Transportation and Vancouver-based Last Mile Delivery, stopped delivering Amazon packages in the Portland area last June.
Last Mile told drivers at the time that “Amazon has been nickel and diming us so bad” that they couldn’t manage the business profitably or deliver packages safely.
The companies are seeking $15 million, plus damages and attorney fees in the lawsuit, filed Monday in Multnomah County Circuit Court. Amazon said it did not have any immediate comment on the litigation.
Amazon has been facing growing scrutiny from its workers and contractors who allege that the company’s packaging and delivery demands are extreme and unrealistic. The company outsources much of its delivery work to delivery firms, which operate vans painted with Amazon’s logos and whose drivers wear Amazon uniforms.
Triton and Last Mile helped bring national attention to the conditions facing Amazon drivers when the companies stopped delivering packages in the Portland area in June.
In this week’s litigation, Triton and Last Mile allege that Amazon dictated every element of its business, from which drivers they hire to how much it could pay them and the hours they worked.
They accuse Amazon of refusing basic accommodations, such as using smaller vans in the narrow streets of Portland’s West Hills. Amazon “refused to allow Plaintiffs any ability to modify or optimize those routes to account for terrain, density, traffic congestion, construction, or any other important considerations,” according to the complaint.
Drivers frequently worked 12-hour days to meet Amazon’s demands, the contractors say, but Amazon would only reimburse the companies for 10-hour shifts. So the delivery companies had to pay the difference, including overtime, from their own budgets.
And they say Amazon made no accommodations to allow drivers to slow down to avoid creating hazardous situations. Amazon’s “unreasonable requirements resulted in numerous injuries to Plaintiffs’ drivers, including back injuries resulting from (Amazon’s) fast-paced load-out requirements at the warehouse and falls and strains from rushed deliveries,” the plaintiffs allege. “The rushed deliveries also put the public at risk.”
The litigation describes damage to contractors’ vehicles but does not say whether the incidents resulted in damage or injuries to others who didn’t work for the contracting firms or for Amazon.
Triton and Last Mile say Amazon also interfered with their business relationship with vehicle suppliers and others and provided rival contractors with confidential information about the two companies’ operations and personal information about their drivers.
Oregon Special Election – Tuesday, Nov. 2nd Last Day To Mail In Ballots
Election Day is in one week, and ballots are due back to county election offices or in an official drop box by 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 2.
Issues on the special election ballot will vary depending on where you live.
Postmarks do not count in Oregon’s vote-by-mail system, and after Tuesday (Oct. 26) it will be too late to mail in your ballot to guarantee it arrives in time for the election.
Completed ballots should be returned to an official ballot drop box. | FIND BALLOT DROP NEAR ME
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