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
Friday, August 18, 2023
Willamette Valley Weather
To check your local air quality, visit https://fire.airnow.gov/ .
Human Remains Discovered In Corvallis Landfill During Investigation Into Missing Woman
The discovery of human remains in a Corvallis-area landfill is likely connected to the disappearance and death of an Oregon City woman last month, according to an update from the Oregon City Police Department.
Kara Taylor, 49, was reported missing on July 27 by a man she’d been living with, identified as Jamon Peter Fritsch, 47. The case almost immediately aroused suspicion because Taylor left behind a 22-year-old daughter with special needs who she cared for in the same home.
Less than two weeks later, police arrested Fritsch and charged him with Taylor’s murder.
According to investigators, Fritsch had made multiple trips to Home Depot to purchase zip ties, tarps and a saw blade. A search of the home that Fritsch and Taylor shared revealed evidence of blood, police said.
Following his arrest, investigators say Fritsch admitted to killing Taylor and dismembering her body. He told investigators that they wouldn’t find her remains because he’d dispersed them in garbage bins across multiple municipalities, according to a state prosecutor.
According to a Wednesday statement from Oregon City police, investigators began a search of the Coffin Butte Landfill near Corvallis on Friday. Although the search took several days, investigators did eventually discover human remains at the site that are believed to belong to Taylor.
“The Oregon City Police Department would like to publicly thank Republic Services, who owns and operates the landfill, and its employees for their assistance throughout the investigation and search,” the agency said. “Investigators have been working tirelessly to uncover everything they can about the facts surrounding Ms. Taylor’s disappearance and death, so that we can provide her family and friends with the answers they deserve as they navigate and grieve her loss.”
The remains were taken to the Clackamas County Medical Examiner’s office for further examination and positive identification.
Fritsch has been indicted in connection with Taylor’s death and is being held without bail at the Clackamas County jail on charges of second-degree murder and first-degree abuse of a corpse. The investigation is ongoing.
Taylor’s friends and family released a statement following Fritsch’s arrest last week, saying in part:
“Kara was a very loving and caring person who would do anything for anyone if she knew it would make a day in their life better. She was trusting and had faith in others and believed there was good in everyone. Her time here was shortened, but the ones that had the blessed opportunity to be part of her life will be forever grateful for the time spent with her. As the phenomenal mom Kara was, she unfortunately leaves behind a 22-year-old special needs daughter named Nicole. “The difficult times these are, your thoughts and prayers are appreciated in finding Kara and bringing her home to Rest.” (SOURCE)
South Eugene Post Office Robbed at Gunpoint
Eugene police officials said a south Eugene post office was robbed at gunpoint late Wednesday afternoon.
The Eugene Police Department responded to a reported robbery at the United States Post Office located on East 33rd Avenue at 5:07 p.m. on August 16, police said. EPD said that a man pointed a gun at workers and demanded money.
“About five o’clock, a male suspect entered the post office, demanded money, presented a firearm…,” said Sgt. Kyle Evans. “After he got what he was after, he left the location and we’ve been out looking for him.” Police said that nobody was hurt in the incident.
The suspect is described as a white male with a round face in his 50s, 5’8” to 5’9” in height with greyish hair that’s balding or close-cropped, police said. EPD officials said the suspect was last seen wearing a grey baseball cap, dark blue shirt, cargo pants, and a bandanna.
These are the fires currently burning in our area of the state. UPDATES: Lookout Fire – Bedrock Fire – The Wiley Fire – The Salmon Fire – Priceboro Fire
Lookout Fire 2023 is near McKenzie Bridge and has level 1 & 2 evacuations. It’s around 200 acres and 0% contained. Expect this one to grow. https://lanecounty.org/news/lookout_fire
The small mountain communities along the McKenzie River are struggling with more of the Lookout Fire’s smoke covering the region. The fire now grows closer to 4300 acres burned resulting in heavy dense smoke covering the burn site.
Lookout Fire Update: August 17, 2023, 3:30 p.m.
Quick Facts-Size: 4,271 acres Containment: 0%Start Date: August 5, 2023Point of origin: 3 miles North of McKenzie Bridge, OR LOOKOUT FIRE ON MCKENZIE HWY CAUSES LEVEL 1 EVACUATION ALERT The Lookout Fire burning in Lane County near McKenzie Bridge along Highway 126 is currently at 4,271 acres. It is burning just south of the Linn County line shared with Lane County. Both Sheriff’s Offices are coordinating efforts with Lookout Fire Command and the Incident Management Team.
While northeast of the Lookout Fire by several miles, Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan is concerned for campers, hikers and visitors to the Trail Bridge Reservoir, Smith Reservoir, and Tamolitch Falls area. Out of an abundance of caution, Sheriff Duncan, working in coordination with Lane County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Cliff Harold, are issuing a Level 1 (BE READY) evacuation alert.
The following areas are within a LEVEL 1 (BE READY) Evacuation Alert zone: Beginning on Highway 126 just north of Ice Cap Campground, west to include all of Smith Reservoir (including Lakes End Campground). Then extending south between Lakes End Campground and Highway 126, to the McKenzie Bridge/Frissell Boat Launch. Refer to the map located at http://tinyurl.com/LookoutFire and the attached map image. Trail Bridge Reservoir, Smith Reservoir, and Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool) are highly recreated areas of the McKenzie River Forest Service District. However, cell phone reception is weak or nonexistent in the area. This presents a danger to any persons using the areas within the listed LEVEL 1 (BE READY) zone. While the areas remain open, persons visiting the LEVEL 1 area should stay alert and prepared, as evacuation levels can change with fire conditions quickly and alerts may not be able to be delivered to cell phones in the area.
Much of the area included in this Level 1 (BE READY) evacuation alert is already part of a U.S. Forest Service Emergency Closure. By this declaration, no persons are to be on the roadways or trails within the closure area, or enter or remain on the National Forest Service lands covered by the closure. For more information on evacuations, visit https://www.linnsheriff.org/ and https://tinyurl.com/LinnWileyFire .
Community Meeting 8/17 Video on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LookoutFire2023/videos/671294111541478
The Bedrock Fire 2023 is near Lowell and Fall Creek. It also has level 1 & 2 evacuations issued.
August 18, 2023 Quick Facts: Acres: 27,457 Containment: 25% Total personnel: 1,089 Crews: 25 Helicopters: 9 Engines: 69 Heavy Equipment: 38 Water Tenders: 33
Firefighters on the Bedrock Fire have worked hard in difficult terrain and extreme weather conditions to reach 25% containment on the fire. Fire crews have built extensive control line on the north, east, and south sides of the fire, and these lines have been holding for multiple days. Once these areas are secure, fire engines patrol continuously to ensure that the fire remains within its footprint. Burning embers can cross the containment lines and ignite unburned vegetation, and these engine crews identify and extinguish any heat sources that could challenge our control lines. https://lanecounty.org/news/bedrock
The Wiley Fire is near Sweet Home. News Update: August 17, 2023, 5:30 p.m.
Quick Facts-Size: 245 Acres Location: 9 miles SE of Sweet Home Containment: 45%Resources: ODF Type 3 Team, hand crews, dozers, and aircraft
Lands Affected: USFS Willamette National Forest, Private land
WILEY CREEK FIRE TYPE 3 TEAM TRANSITION TOMORROW Sweet Home, Ore.— The Wiley Creek Fire is seeing cooler temperatures today. Fire behavior has remained minimal because of both day and night operations. Containment will grow each day as mop up operations and patrolling for spot fires continues. It is currently at 45%.The ODF team that was initially assigned to the fire will be transitioning with another Type 3 organization tonight and tomorrow. The Southern Area Gray Team will assume command of the fire at 2 p.m. Friday, August 18.All evacuation levels have been lifted. For more information on evacuations, visit https://www.linnsheriff.org/. No campfires of any kind are allowed on the Willamette National Forest.
Resources assigned to the fire on Wednesday include five crews, six engines, five water tenders, eight tree fallers, as well as various bulldozers and logging equipment. When teams transition personnel numbers will shift and become larger during this process depending on the incoming team. Resources assigned to the fire will be demobilized, reassigned, or stay with the fire depending on the needs and fire behavior.
As the week continues, the weather is expected to become cooler, and wind will remain west and shift northwest in the afternoon.
Smoke from the Lookout Fire continues to drift west into Sweet Home and nearby communities. Smoke drift maps and air quality information is always available on https://fire.airnow.gov/. Wiley Creek Fire Maps: https://tinyurl.com/LinnWileyFire
Salmon Fire is near Oakridge and in mop up stages with 60% containment. There is currently a level 1 evacuation notice issued. https://lanecounty.org/news/salmon_fire Salmon Fire: Acres: 135 Acres Containment: 95% Total personnel: 36 Crews: 1 Helicopters: *Shared with Bedrock Engines: 3
There is currently minimal fire behavior. Firefighters are continuing to mop up, patrol, and monitor around the fire perimeter.
Evacuations: The Lane County Sheriff’s Office currently has Level 2 and 3 “Go now!” evacuation notices in place for areas west of the fire near Fall Creek Lake. The level 1 evacuation around the Salmon Fire remains in place. A searchable evacuation map with fire perimeters is on the Lane County website.
Smoke: The daily West-Central Oregon Smoke Outlook provides a detailed air quality forecast for the Bedrock and Salmon Fires, as well as other nearby fires.
Safety and Closures: The Willamette National Forest implemented the Bedrock Fire Emergency Area Closure on July 24 to ensure the safety of the public and personnel working on the fire. An emergency closure order for the Salmon Fire area is in place as of August 8. The closure maps for the Bedrock and Salmon Fires are available on InciWeb. There are Temporary Flight Restrictions over the Bedrock and Salmon Fire areas. Residential electrical outages can be reported to Lane Electric at 541-484-1151.
Priceboro Fire by Coburg. Mopped up and quiet for a few days. https://lanecounty.org/news/priceboro_fire
Corvallis Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Orchestrating Fraud Scheme Claiming to Support Christian Missionaries and Organizations
EUGENE, Ore.—A Corvallis, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for orchestrating an investment fraud scheme that falsely claimed to support various Christian missionaries and organizations.
Erik J. Hass, 53, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to pay more than $1.75 million in restitution to his victims.
According to court documents, in January 2013, Hass founded Simply Gains, Inc., an organization he claimed supported Christian missionaries and organizations while offering significant returns for investors. Hass solicited members of his church, coworkers, and other acquaintances to invest in the organization via self-directed retirement and cash accounts. In exchange, he gave investors unsecured promissory notes and promised compounded annual returns of up to 30%.
Hass also claimed he would only profit from the investment scheme if monthly returns were higher than 2%. Yet, from the start, Hass began taking a salary drawn from investors’ funds and used the proceeds to pay for personal expenses. Throughout the scheme, Hass sent investors account statements showing fictitious gains and account balances and false IRS 1099-INT forms.
Hass continued accepting investments well into 2018, knowing he could not honor his investment claims. Instead, these new investments were used to fund Ponzi payments to older investors who had requested withdrawals from their accounts. In total, at least 20 investors lost more than $1.75 million combined investing in Hass’ scheme.
On June 9, 2020, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an 8-count indictment charging Hass with wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. On February 21, 2023, he pleaded guilty to five counts of wire fraud and two counts of mail fraud.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Oregon Division of Financial Regulation. It was prosecuted by Gavin W. Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Grant program extended to help fire-harden homes, businesses damaged by 2020 and 2021 wildfires
(Salem) – The Oregon Building Codes Division is partnering with counties on a grant program to help owners of homes and businesses rebuild after the 2020 and 2021 Oregon wildfires.
People who own a home – including a manufactured home – or business that was damaged or destroyed by the 2020 or 2021 wildfires can receive money for using more fire-resistant methods and materials when they rebuild. Those who have already rebuilt also qualify.
The grant program was due to expire June 30, 2023. However, the Oregon Legislature extended the program and expanded it to include 2021 wildfire survivors. To date, the program has dispersed more than $3.3 million to help more than 800 wildfire survivors build back more fire-resistant homes and businesses.
Fire hardening is an important tool to help make homes more resistant to fire. Fire hardening includes actions that can be taken to make a home or business more resistant to damage from a wildfire, such as using materials for siding and roofing that resist ignition during a wildfire, installing fire-resistant windows to protect openings, or using attic ventilation devices that help reduce ember intrusion.
“These improvements are particularly effective at preventing ignition from embers, which can travel great distances from wildfires,” said Alana Cox, administrator of the Oregon Building Codes Division. “We are pleased to be able to extend and expand this program, which is helping people affected by the wildfires build back more fire-resistant communities.”
To learn more and apply, visit https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/Pages/firehardening.aspx.
To qualify for the program, a person must own a home or business that was damaged or destroyed in the 2020 or 2021 Oregon wildfires. See the table below for a menu of fire-hardening improvements, including more fire-resistant roofs, siding, and windows that qualify for grant money. Eligible applicants can receive grant money through their county building department after completing one or more qualifying improvements.
The following improvements will be incentivized by the program, and the listed incentive amounts will be disbursed to eligible applicants once they complete qualifying fire-hardening improvements.
| ELEMENT | OPTIONS | GRANT AMOUNT |
| Roofing | Class B or Class A | $2,200 |
| External wall covering | Must be constructed from one of the following: Noncombustible materialIgnition-resistant materialHeavy timber assemblyLog wall assembly | $1,750 |
| Ventilation | Options: Vents designed to resist ember and flame intrusionUnvented attic assembly | $350 |
| Overhangs, cantilevers, and projections | Underside of eaves, soffits, cantilevers, etc., protected by one of the following:Noncombustible materialIgnition-resistant materialExterior portion of one-hour wall assemblyOne layer of 5/8-inch Type X exterior gypsum sheathing or equivalent | $400 |
| Walking surfaces of porches, balconies, and decks | Must be constructed from one of the following:Noncombustible materialIgnition-resistant materialExterior fire-retardant treated woodMaterials meeting ASTM E2632 | $550 |
| Windows and skylights | Protected by one of the following:Tempered glass20-minute fire-resistance-rated assembly | $550 |
| Skirting (manufactured homes only) | Made from one of the following skirting materials:NoncombustibleIgnition-resistant | $500 |
| Accessory structures within 50 feet of a residential or commercial building | Improve the structure with both the roofing and the exterior wall covering elements above. Up to two structures are eligible for the grant. | $500 per structure; $1,000 maximum |
### The Building Codes Division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit oregon.gov/bcd and dcbs.oregon.gov.
Western Oregon unveils Peace Pole installation, fostering harmony and unity
MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University proudly celebrates a milestone in its journey towards global unity and understanding with the unveiling of a Peace Pole on its campus.
Crafted as a profound monument, the Peace Pole stands as a powerful symbol, bearing the timeless message “May peace prevail on earth” in an array of languages that resonate deeply within Western’s diverse community. At the heart of this structure lie eight languages that echo the vibrant tapestry of the institution’s realm: English, Spanish, German, American Sign Language, Japanese, Indigenous Language, Amharic, and Filipino.
In a resounding testament to collaboration and shared purpose, Western’s International Club, Model United Nations Club, Stitch Closet, and MEChA Club united their passions, alongside Western’s dedicated facilities services, to bring this vision to life. This collaboration embodies an earnest aspiration to nurture peace and mutual comprehension amidst diverse cultures, heritages, and perspectives.
Recognition and appreciation go to Monmouth’s Rotary Club, whose generous contribution not only granted Western the Peace Pole itself but also signifies an unwavering commitment to students and global harmony.
“Witnessing our students unite in this endeavor that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Western Oregon University community fills me with immense pride,” said President Jesse Peters. “We persist in our quest to fashion spaces that exude an ambiance of tranquility and serenity.”
Western’s campus community thrives on the diverse tapestry of its members’ backgrounds, cultural experiences, identities, and expressions. Central to nurturing an inclusive environment, the Peace Pole stands as an important catalyst.
About Western Oregon University — Western Oregon University, founded in 1856 in Monmouth, is the state’s oldest public university. Serving about 4,000 students, WOU is a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution with about 70% of the student population being from Oregon. A significant portion of attendees are members of under-represented groups, veterans, or non-traditional students. WOU is Oregon’s campus of choice for those seeking a transformative education in a supportive, student-centered learning community where classes are taught by faculty. Together we succeed.
UVA Announces 13th Annual Plein Air Event & Exhibition
Umpqua Valley Arts’ (UVA) five-day plein air paint out event will take place August 21st-25th, bringing artists to Douglas County to capture the beautiful landscapes and historic locations in the Land of the Umpqua.
ROSEBURG / AUGUST 17, 2023 / UMPQUA VALLEY ARTS ASSOCIATION
This 13th annual event will feature participation by 55 talented plein air artists from across the Pacific Northwest region, and 5 days of suggested paint out locations throughout Douglas County. Included in this year’s list of suggested areas are: the North Umpqua River and Waterfall Trails, Umpqua Valley Wineries, Historic Downtown Oakland, and many Douglas County parks and natural features.
“It’s an honor to host an event that every year captures a moment in time in the everchanging landscapes that surround us,” said UVA Community Outreach Director, Sarah Holborow. “The exhibit is a tribute to the inspiring land we inhabit and an artistic representation of the deep connection between land and vibrant communities.”
Year after year, Umpqua Plein Air embraces the landscape of the Umpqua Valley, from breathtaking emerald rivers to abundant farmlands and shaded forest paths. This annual event is a celebration of Plein Air art practice and offers guest artists the opportunity to reconnect with nature and interact with fellow creatives at each “paint-out” throughout the week.
After nearly a week of painting in the great outdoors, artists will display and sell their work in UVA galleries during a 9-week exhibition. The pieces created by the participants will be installed, juried, judged, and made eligible for purchase awards. This year’s guest juror is Portland-based artist and plein air expert, Erik Sandgren.
Artists searching to stretch their creative muscles, outdoor aficionados, local community members and dedicated art collectors alike will all find something to love about UVA’s yearly tribute to the land of the Umpqua.
The resulting exhibition from will be on view for the first time at the 2023 Umpqua Plein Air Opening Reception on Saturday, August 26th from 4pm-7pm. The open house event is free to the public and will feature: UVA’s brand new exhibit, small bites and sips, live music, awards and remarks by guest juror Erik Sangren, and celebration of the featured artists and their plein air works created during this year’s paint out event!
Cash awards and prizes will be given out in multiple categories, and the juror’s forty awards of distinction will be on display in UVA’s historic Hallie Brown Ford Gallery.
After the opening celebration, the new exhibit can be experienced free of charge at UVA August 26th – October 27th, during current operating hours Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm.
About Umpqua Valley Arts: Umpqua Valley Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to art education, art appreciation, service to artists and art organizations, and to the community. Currently entering its 51st year of operations, UVA has played a primary role in local arts education program development and has led the path for cultural growth in our region. In 1979, the Arts Association and the City of Roseburg entered into a partnership arrangement to use the buildings in the Fir Grove Section of Stewart Park as a cultural center. A vital creative resource, this community nonprofit serves Douglas County community members through art education, gallery exhibits, special events, and more.
For more information: sarah@uvarts.com 541-672-2532
Life-Saving Donations Needed For Summer Stockpile
With temperatures forecasted to reach triple digits for multiple days next week, Lane County Human Services (LCHS), in partnership with the the First Christian Church of Eugene’s Helping Hearts Program and CAHOOTS, is urgently seeking donations for the stockpile of supplies to help the unhoused and unsheltered survive summer heatwaves.
The Helping Hearts program is seeking donations of multiple items including water bottles, lip balm and fans.
Donations can be dropped off at First Christian Church’s Helping Hearts Program, located at 1166 Oak St. in downtown Eugene, Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
An additional, Saturday drop-off site has been added to try and collect as many items as possible Harlequin Beads and Jewelry, located at 2833 Willamette St.from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Items can also be purchased on Amazon and sent to First Christian Church at 1166 Oak St. Eugene OR 97402. Amazon Wishlist https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3QB2CSDNZ26HF?ref_=wl_share
For more information, please call the Helping Hearts Program at (541) 344-1425.
Just south of the Oregon border along Hwy 199, the Diamond, Holiday, Kelly, and Prescott fires along with multiple other fires in the area have been grouped together in the “Smith River Complex.” This is along the route from Grants Pass to the coast.
Smith River Fire Complex Updates:8-18-23Acres: 7,593 (6:24 am) Containment:0%
According to the USFS, the complex is being hit with an aggressive initial attack by firefighters and additional resources have been ordered for support. Caltrans District 1 said Highway 199 is completely closed in Del Norte County between Pioneer Road and the Agricultural Inspection Station near the Oregon border due to the Smith River Complex. Anyone who tries to travel on Highway 199 in this area will be turned around.
State releases 2020 Labor Day Wildfire After-Action Review
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has released the 2020 Labor Day Wildfire Disaster Recovery Operations After-Action Review.
The 2020 Labor Day Wildfires and Straight-Line Winds event marked the first full activation of the Oregon Disaster Recovery Plan and called for an unprecedented recovery operation in Oregon, employing approximately 1,500 professionals from around the country and within the state.
Oregonians impacted by the 2020 wildfires received just over $39 million in relief from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) programs guided by OEM staff, and they continue to receive assistance from Long-Term Recovery Groups (LTRGs).
Nearly $500 million has been obligated to repair infrastructure and rebuild communities, with more to come. OEM anticipates facilitating Public Assistance projects and local jurisdiction support with LTRGs and Community Organizations Active in Disasters (COADs) for decades.
View the After-Action Review on OEM’s website.
Stan Thomas, OEM Deputy Director and Mitigation and Recovery Section Division Director, is available for phone and online interviews. Please schedule with OEM Public Affairs Officer Chris Crabb at is.crabb@oem.oregon.gov“>chris.crabb@oem.oregon.gov.
Software upgrade may impact ONE Customer Service Center call wait times
Need to know:
- People in Oregon can call the ONE Customer Service Center to apply for or get help with their medical, food, cash, and child care benefits.
- The ONE Customer Service Center phone software will be upgraded over the weekend outside of its normal operating hours, no service interruptions are expected.
- The ONE Customer Service Center may have longer call wait times through Aug. 25 as the system is implemented.
- No service interruptions are expecting during this time and the ONE Customer Service Center will continue to take calls and provide support during its normal business hours of Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Pacific Time.
- There are many other ways people can apply for and manage their benefits to avoid potentially longer wait times.
(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is alerting people in Oregon that they might experience longer wait times when they call the ONE Customer Service Center through Aug. 25. The ONE Customer Service Center provides phone support to people in Oregon calling to apply for or get help with their medical, food, cash, and child care benefits.
The State of Oregon will be upgrading the phone software used by the ONE Customer Service Center from Aug. 18 to Aug. 21. The upgrade will take place over the weekend and outside normal business hours. ODHS does not expect any service interruptions, however, the upgrade may result in longer wait times for callers.
The ONE Customer Service Center, which can be reached by phone at 1-800-699-9075, will continue to take calls and provide support during its normal business hours of Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
There are many other ways people can get support and information about their medical, food, cash, and child care benefits:
- Online at: benefits.oregon.gov
- Visiting or calling an office near you: Find an office.
- Through the free Oregon ONE Mobile app available on Apple and Android app stores
- In your language: Help in Your Language
- By mail at: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
- By fax at: 503-378-5628
Resources to help meet basic needs
- Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
- Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or www.adrcoforegon.org.
- Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
- Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: www.caporegon.org/find-services/
- Oregon Department of Human Services help center
About the ONE Eligibility system – The ONE Eligibility system allows people in Oregon to apply for medical, food, cash and child care benefits with one application online, by phone or in person at any ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs, Aging and People with Disabilities or Area Agency on Aging office.
About the Oregon Department of Human Services – The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.
Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Ties a Record Low at 3.4% in July
Oregon’s unemployment rate dropped to 3.4% in July, down from 3.5% in June. This was the sixth consecutive monthly drop in the unemployment rate, down from a recent high of 4.8% in January. The July rate equaled Oregon’s record low of 3.4%, which was reached in November and December 2019. The U.S. unemployment rate was 3.5% in July, which was very close to Oregon’s July rate.
In July, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 6,800 jobs, following a gain of 5,700 jobs in June. July’s gain was nearly double the average increase of 3,700 jobs per month during the prior 12 months.
Over-the-month job gains were largest in health care and social assistance (+3,400 jobs); government (+1,600); professional and business services (+1,000); and construction (+900). Declines were largest in financial activities (-600 jobs); manufacturing (-500); transportation, warehousing, and utilities (-500); and private educational services (-500).
Over the past 12 months, three major industries—health care and social assistance; leisure and hospitality; and government—have added nearly all of Oregon’s net new jobs, with each up by close to 10,000 jobs while expanding by about 4% to 5%.
Health care and social assistance grew by 13,900 jobs, or 5.2%, contributing the most new jobs since July 2022. Each component of health care rapidly added jobs in the past 12 months. Nursing and residential care facilities added 2,800 jobs, or 5.7%, since July 2022. The industry remains slightly below its peak employment, reached in early 2020. Similarly, hospitals added 1,900 jobs, or 3.3%, over the year. Despite the recent growth, the industry was slightly below its March 2020 peak employment level. Meanwhile, ambulatory healthcare services added 2,400 jobs, or 2.5%, in the past 12 months and reached a record high of 98,300 jobs in July.
Durable goods manufacturing cut 700 jobs in July. Since July 2022, several of its component industries each cut a few hundred jobs. The bright spot was transportation equipment manufacturing, which added 400 jobs over the past 12 months. Nondurable goods manufacturing added 1,300 jobs.
Next Press Releases – The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the July county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Tuesday, Aug. 22, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for August on Wednesday, Sep. 13.
Notes:
All numbers in the above narrative are seasonally adjusted, except the component industries within health care and durable goods manufacturing.
The Oregon Employment Department and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) work cooperatively to develop and publish monthly Oregon payroll employment and labor force data. The estimates of monthly job gains and losses are based on a survey of businesses. The estimates of unemployment are based on a survey of households and other sources.
The Oregon Employment Department publishes payroll employment estimates that are revised quarterly by using employment counts from employer unemployment insurance tax records. All department publications use this Official Oregon Series data unless noted otherwise. This month’s release incorporates the January, February and March 2023 tax records data. The department continues to make the original nonfarm payroll employment series available; these data are produced by the BLS.
The PDF version of the news release can be found at QualityInfo.org/press-release. To obtain the data in other formats such as in Excel, visit QualityInfo.org, select Tools, then choose LAUS or CES under the Economy header. To request the press release as a Word document, contact the person shown at the top of this press release.
To file a claim for unemployment benefits or get more information about unemployment programs, visit unemployment.oregon.gov.
The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.
El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.
Certified Burn Manager Program now accepting applications
Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Certified Burn Manager (CBM) Program is now accepting applications for both burn managers and qualified training providers. The overall purpose of the program is to reduce barriers to prescribed fire in Oregon and protect certified burn managers and landowners from civil liability.
The program, created by Senate Bill 762 (2021), increases capacity for prescribed burns on non-federal, ODF-protected lands through leadership training and a certification program. Through the certification program, individuals seeking to become burn managers learn how to properly plan and oversee a prescribed burn.
When a landowner or community within an ODF protection district uses a certified burn manager, and follows the required burn plan, it protects both from civil liability. The certified burn manager can manage a burn anywhere within ODF protection, whether on their own property or that of other landowners. A potential burn manager does not need to be a landowner to become certified.
Expanding access to safely conducted prescribed burns benefits Oregonians by maintaining healthy forests and reducing risks to public safety. Reintroducing periodic fire to fire-adapted landscapes reduces the potential for high-intensity wildfires along with the huge volume of smoke they produce.
ODF is seeking applications from individuals interested in becoming certified burn managers and training providers with experience creating and delivering wildland fire training to deliver content based upon a detailed certified burn manager instructor guide and final exam provided by ODF. Apply online at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/prescribed-fire.aspx.
The first day of fall practice was met with tragedy at Newport High School. Boys soccer player Yael Felix-Trejo died on Monday night after falling ill during practice.
According to Lincoln County School District, sophomore Felix-Trejo felt ill while at soccer practice. Felix-Trejo’s parents and 911 were notified and Felix-Trejo was taken to the Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital, where he died.
Monday was the first day of fall practices for Oregon high schools for the 2023-24 school year. It was also Oregon’s hottest day of the year, with some parts of the state reaching over 100 degrees. Being a coastal town, temperatures in Newport did not get as high as other parts of the state, with the National Weather Service logging temperatures in the low 60s.
Newport High School had a care room open and had counselors available on Tuesday for any students looking for mental health help. Tuesday was also the school’s Fall Sports Parent Night, where attendees could write a card or note to Felix-Trejo’s friends and family.
The FBI Is Offering a Reward of up to $15,000 for Information Leading to the Arrest and Conviction of the Individual(s) Responsible for the Murder of Adrian Perdomo
PORTLAND, OREGON – The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Portland Field Office and the Portland Police Bureau are asking for the public’s help in identifying the individual(s) responsible for the shooting death of 26-year-old Adrian Perdomo one year after his murder.
On August 14, 2022, Perdomo was walking past Northgate Park, located at 9415 N Geneva Avenue, Portland, Oregon, around 10pm when investigators believe he was assaulted and then shot and killed. Several casings were found near the victim.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $15,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for the murder of Adrian Perdomo.
“Adrian Perdomo was out for a walk when he was killed outside a Portland city park,” said Matthew Schlegel, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “This week marks one year since his murder and we believe there were witnesses there that night who could help bring his family the closure they deserve. We hope the $15,000 reward will encourage anyone with information to reach out to the FBI.”
In addition to the reward, the FBI will also be utilizing Lamar digital billboards throughout the Portland metro area to encourage anyone with information to contact the FBI.
If you have any information concerning this case, please contact the FBI Portland Field Office at (503) 224-4181, your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or you can submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/adrian-perdomo
Gas prices have hit their highest levels since last October.
Triple-A reports rising crude oil prices are causing gas prices to rise. Crude oil is up nine percent over the
last month into the upper 70s and low 80s per barrel. The national average gained four cents to three-86. Oregon’s average is up three cents at four-69.
Medford has the highest prices at four-80 a gallon and Pendleton has the least expensive gas at four-51. Diesel in Oregon jumped 15 cents to four-76. The national average for diesel increased 12 cents to four-33.
The restoration project for the Butte Creek Mill is entering its last push.
As part of the final fundraising efforts, Jim Belushi, brother of the famous John Belushi and star of the TV show “according to Jim”,, is putting on Comedy on the Rogue at Belushi Farms.
Tickets went on sale today at http://comedyontherogue.com. The night will include Jim Belushi’s Board of Comedy and music from Belushi’s band.
Volunteer Jay O’Neil said they need about $300,000 to finish the restoration project. Most of the work that needs done still is repairing the basement that was damaged by water during the fire.
Tickets will be on sale until late September, or until they sell out. Belushi owns property in the Rogue Valley and has settled there.
If you’ve ever wanted to help the state now is your chance.
Governor Tina Kotek is urging Oregonians to apply for over 130 open positions on 12 new boards and commissions that were created by the Legislature.
They include hospital discharge challenges, juvenile justice, cybersecurity, universal health and more. Kotek says true progress requires each and every one to be engaged. Applicants should apply on the state’s website. https://oregon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/SOR_External_Career_Site
Help your wildland firefighters. Most human-caused fires are avoidable. Help your wildland firefighters by actively practicing wildfire prevention. The fewer human-caused fires they have to respond to, the less our resources are strained and the more we can protect our firefighters from fatigue and burnout.
