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, November 22, 2023
Willamette Valley Weather
With Thanksgiving weekend almost here, many people will be traveling around Oregon over the next few days to celebrate the holiday. The coast may see sneaker waves, while the Willamette Valley is expected to stay dry. In the Oregon Cascades, there’s a slight chance for rain and snow.
Here’s a look at the holiday thanksgiving forecast, depending on where you are traveling in the state. The information may be updated if there are any majors changes in the forecast.
In Eugene, a cold front will bring light rain early on Thanksgiving Eve and a return of fog and cold for Thanksgiving Day. Very light rainfall is expected as showers move through late Tuesday and into Wednesday. Some will see a few brief sunbreaks, but fog and low clouds will start developing overnight into Thanksgiving Day.
For Thanksgiving Day, expect mainly sunny and mild conditions for the coast, cold and sunny conditions for the Cascades, but foggy and cold weather is expected for most of the Willamette Valley, Umpqua Basin and possibly into Southern Oregon as well.
Sneaker waves on the coast – Anyone planning to spend the holiday along the Oregon coast should be mindful of possible sneaker waves. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Portland said there is an increasing threat of sneaker waves on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, Nov. 23) through the weekend.
Sneaker waves are waves that suddenly surge further up the beach than expected, according to the NWS. They are powerful enough to sweep people into the ocean, and can roll logs and other debris along the beach.
The warning comes around the same time that the first king tides of the season will be viewable, Nov. 25-27.
Willamette Valley stays dry – Fog is the biggest challenge that people in the Willamette Valley will experience around the holiday. Thanksgiving Day is expected to start foggy, but conditions will clear in the afternoon for sunshine around the Willamette Valley, according to KGW meteorologist Rod Hill.
East winds will develop later in the week, which will keep the fog away around the Portland area through the weekend. However, the rest of the western valley will see fog, Hill said. The Pacific Northwest will stay dry through Sunday and into early next week.
Chance of rain and snow in the Cascades – Parts of the northern Oregon Cascades could see rain and snow on Thanksgiving Day, according to the NWS’ latest forecast. Thursday is expected to be partly cloudy in the morning. The snow level will be at 3,000 feet, with a 20% chance of precipitation. Friday looks to be mostly sunny, with the sunshine sticking around through Sunday.
You can check road and weather conditions at TripCheck
Eugene To Vote On STAR Voting Initiative In May Primary Election
Voters in Eugene, Oregon, will decide on an initiative to adopt a new electoral system, STAR voting, on May 21, 2024. STAR is an acronym for Score-Then-Automatic-Runoff.
If approved, Eugene Oregon would be the first jurisdiction to adopt STAR voting.
In 2018, voters in Lane County, Oregon, which includes Eugene, defeated Measure 20-290, which would have adopted STAR voting for county officers. Measure 20-290 was defeated with 47.60% voting ‘Yes’ and 52.40% voting ‘No’. Sara Wolk, the chief petitioner for next year’s ballot initiative, said while Measure 20-290 was defeated countywide, the measure won a majority of votes within Eugene.
For next year’s initiative, supporters collected 14,430 signatures, of which 10,040 signatures were deemed valid by city officials. At least 9,689 signatures needed to be valid.
Here’s how STAR voting would work: There would be no primaries. Rather, candidates would run on the same ballot. Voters would score each candidate on a scale of zero to five.
The idea is that if a voter doesn’t have any preference for a candidate, they could give that candidate a score of zero. If the voter has a strong preference for a candidate, they could give that candidate a score of five. A voter could give multiple candidates the same scores.
Scores are then tabulated. In an election with three voters, for example, a candidate could receive a five, three, and zero, equaling a score of eight. Another candidate could receive a score of three, three, and three, equaling a score of nine. This tabulation would occur for each candidate. The two candidates with the highest scores are known as finalists and enter an automatic runoff.
During the automatic runoff, a voter’s ballot counts as one vote for the finalist that the voter scored higher. If a voter gave the two finalists a score of three and two, respectively, the vote would go to the candidate whom the voter scored with a three. If the voter gave the two finalists the same score, the voter’s ballot would be counted as a vote of no preference between the two finalists. MORE INFO: https://www.starvoting.org/eugene (SOURCE)
St. Vincent De Paul Waives Affordable Housing Application Fees Through End Of 2023
St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) announced on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, that they will be waiving application fees for their affordable housing properties through the remainder of 2023.
The customary application fee of $44 will be waived for low-income residents who are applying to live in SVdP’s affordable housing properties.
“Eliminating all application fees will help reduce a barrier for many of our neighbors who need affordable housing the most, during this season when it is needed most,” says SVdP Property Management Director Ben Abbe.
Housing through SVdP operates on a waitlist basis, with staff evaluating the lists quarterly on the first business days of March, June, September and December. SVdP recommends those who are searching for affordable housing to explore more information and current waitlist options here: https://www.svdp.us/svdp-waives-housing-application-fees-through-2023/ — https://www.svdp.us/homepage/affordable-housing/housing-waitlists-through-svdp-property-management/#waitlist
SVdP says applying for SVdp waitlists is always free, wait times vary.
[I]n some cases applicants will be on a waitlist for 6-18 months before they are contacted to schedule an appointment to apply for open housing. Only then, when an individual’s name comes up on the SVdP waitlist to apply for housing, are they typically charged an application fee to cover administrative costs.
“We hope that putting a pause on this fee will provide a small bit of relief for some of our neighbors during this time of year that is joyous for most, but creates an added financial strain for many,” Abbe says. “We know that every dollar needs to stretch even further than it normallydoes for families struggling to work their way out of poverty, as they do their best to build a special holiday season for their loved ones.”
SVdP’s next quarterly evaluation will happen and further waitlist openings will be made available, on Dec. 1, 2023.
Waste Wise Lane County: Holiday leftover recipe contest gets cooking
As the holiday season kicks off, Waste Wise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—again encourages county residents to do the holidays differently this year with the launch of its second “Simplify the Holidays” campaign.
Last year marked the first iteration of the campaign, which is produced by the Center for Biological Diversity and has again been adopted by Waste Wise Lane County. “Simplify the Holidays” encourages residents and businesses to reimagine how they view and participate in the holiday season to inspire joy while curbing waste. The campaign includes earth-friendly gift ideas and will run through December 31.
However, this year’s campaign includes a twist: a holiday leftovers recipe contest.
“Maybe it’s Uncle John’s famous Christmas Ham Sliders or Aunt Lucia’s delectable Thanksgiving Turkey Tamales,” said Waste Wise Lane County Outreach Coordinator Daniel Hiestand. “How does your family use holiday leftovers? We want to collect your recipes and share them with our community to inspire folks to reduce food waste and save money.”
Recipes submitted during the campaign will be published on the Waste Wise Lane County food waste prevention website, eatsmartwasteless.tips. Those who share recipes will be automatically entered into a prize drawing, with contest winners announced on January 3.
Prizes include Lion & Owl and BRING gift certificates, free enrollment in Oregon State University Extension Master Food Preserver workshops, and a collection of sustainable products from Main Street Market.
“Waste Wise Lane County is laser-focused on helping empower residents and businesses with food waste reduction tools,” Hiestand said. “Between 30 to 40 percent of all food produced is never eaten, so preventing wasted food is one of the most powerful things we can do to address the climate crisis. Eating what you have is a critical part of that. We hope this contest shows leftovers can be quite delicious with a little creativity while saving money.”
Follow the campaign on Waste Wise Lane County’s social media pages @WasteWiseLaneCounty on Facebook and Instagram. To submit a recipe, use this online form (https://bit.ly/LeftoverForm).
About Waste Wise Lane County – Waste Wise Lane County— a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.
About Simplify the Holidays – Simplify the Holidays is an award-winning program of the Center for Biological Diversity. Simplify the Holidays seeks to empower individuals and families to be more conscious of the impacts of holiday traditions and, in doing so, reconnect with meaningful and lasting celebrations. Learn more at simplifytheholidays.org.
The 71st Annual Springfield Christmas Parade hosted by Oregon Riders Society 501c3 is just around the corner!
The parade kicks off Saturday, December 2nd at 1pm, but multiple roads will be shut down prior to that for participant and attendee safety and traffic control. In an effort to prepare the community for the impending road closures associated with the parade, we’re going to be sharing reminders in the days leading up to the day of the event.
The staging area on Olympic St., from 28th St. to 21st St. will be completely closed off, including exits from Walmart and 23rd St., starting at 7 am for floats to be setup and decorated. No vehicle traffic or drop-offs except vehicles that are registered to drive in the parade will be allowed in this area. Walmart & Wilco parking lots are the correct locations to drop off anyone participating in the parade.
Once the parade starts, streets ahead following the route will be strategically shut down and completely unavailable for normal traffic until the last vehicles are through. The parade will start at 21st & Olympic and end on Pioneer Parkway East. Please plan accordingly to avoid any unnecessary trips through this area at the time.
Renovation Work On Lane Transit District’s Eugene Station Started
Lane Transit District’s central hub is undergoing a major renovation. The $3.8 million project at Eugene Station is set to begin Nov. 20 and last through the fall of 2024.
Some of the project’s key components include a remodel of the Customer Service Center (CSC), station signage updates, the addition of inclusive restrooms, and efficiency upgrades for lighting and HVAC equipment. Several safety and security upgrades will also be made around the property. The “Next Stop Center,” the public meeting room at the corner of West 11th & Olive, will be remodeled to enhance the accessibility, technology, and comfort of events held there.
During construction, CSC will remain open. Restrooms inside the CSC will be closed, but portable ones will be available outside. These restrooms will only be open during service hours and locked overnight.
Once completed, our riders and community members can expect an improved experience that promotes safety, security and inclusiveness. The infrastructure improvements will allow LTD to run even more efficiently for the foreseeable future.
80% of the project budget is funded through grants, and 20% of the project is funded through local match dollars. Information about LTD’s Annual Budget and Community Investment Plan can be found on the Financials webpage. — https://www.ltd.org/latest-news/eugene-station-remodel-improves-efficiency/
Eugene Saturday Market’s Holiday Market Returns
The Eugene Saturday Market’s Holiday Market returned to the Lane Events Center this weekend and will be open every weekend until December 24th.
Visit indoors from 10am until 6pm (10am until 4pm on Dec. 24th) and explore two halls filled with handmade treasures made by local artisans, delicious food, and live performances. As always, admission and parking are free!
MORE INFO: https://www.facebook.com/eugenesaturdaymarket/ — https://www.holidaymarket.org/
Operation Winter Survival Supply Stockpile Drive Need Ongoing
Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with the First Christian Church of Eugene’s Helping Hearts program and White Bird, today announced the launch of Operation Winter Survival Stockpile. The operation is an effort to create a stockpile through donations of clothing and other supplies that will help those in our community experiencing homelessness better brave the elements.
“Every winter those in our community who are without shelter are faced with life-threatening temperatures and weather,” said Maria Cortez, Lane County Human Services Program Coordinator. “These donations will be absolutely crucial to helping these community members stay warm and stay alive.”
“Having access to the severe weather stockpile is an indispensable resource for service providers in our county,” said White Bird Clinic Nest Program Interim Coordinator, Theresa Bordreau. “Having both hot and cold weather supplies, fills a much-needed gap for survival gear that are often in short supply. For any community member looking for ways you can support the most vulnerable in our community, I would encourage you to look at donating to this very important resource. It has been of great value to our clients here at the White Bird Clinic.”
Items can be dropped off on weekdays between 10 A.M. and 2 P.M. or by appointment. Items can also be purchased on Amazon and sent to First Christian Church at 166 Oak St. Eugene, OR, 97402.
The Operation’s Amazon Wish List can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share
Distribution of items will be prioritized to homeless outreach providers such as CAHOOTS that come into direct contact with individuals who are unhoused and unsheltered.
Preferred donation items include:
- Clothing such as rain ponchos, wool socks, thermal underwear, gloves, beanies and footwear
- Items like tents, blankets, hand warmers, tarps, gift cards, and laundry cards
- Tools such as flashlights, batteries, and other survival supplies
For more information on Operation Winter Survival Stockpile, please contact Maria Cortez at ia.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov“>Maria.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov
Line Up of Many Events During The 31st Annual Festival of Trees – hosted at the Graduate in Eugene
The event takes place from November 21 through the 26; closed on Thanksgiving day. — Starting Wednesday, folks will get a chance to check out the Christmas wonderland, from 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Entry is encouraged with a suggested donation of $10 for adults, $5 for children, $5 for seniors and $20 for families.
Funds raised through the Festival of Trees goes towards end-of-life care through Cascade Health services and the Pete Moore Hospice House, a local nonprofit.
For three decades, the Festival of Trees has delighted families and supported Cascade Health’s charitable programs. This event plays a vital role in funding the Pete Moore Hospice House, the sole inpatient hospice house in Lane County, offering compassionate, culturally sensitive, hospital-level care in a comfortable, secure, and home-like environment.
Event goers will also get the chance to bid on their favorite tree in an auction, organizers say they will be continuing with the hybrid auction approach introduced in 2021 due to COVID-19, this year’s items will be on display at the venue with scannable codes for smartphone access. Bidding opens on Monday, November 20, at 8 a.m., and interested participants can sign up at cascade2023.ggo.bid.
This year’s highlights include:
- The signature Tour of Trees showcases 45 gorgeously decorated trees available for purchase in our silent and live auctions.
- The Festival Marketplace, featuring local vendors with handmade and artisan wares, is perfect for holiday gift shopping.
- Craft demonstrations from a variety of artists will improve your skills in creating ornaments, wreaths, cards, decorations, gingerbread and more.
- Special live performances for the whole family include music, dance, magic, storytime and more.
- Kids craft activities offer fun and festive delight for all ages.
- The silent auction features an array of exciting packages and experiences up for bid in-person and online.
You are warmly invited to special Festival events throughout the week:
- Cocktails, Crafts & Conifers (Tuesday, Nov. 21, 5:30-8 p.m.) kicks off Festival with early-bird tree previews, interactive holiday craft demonstrations and delicious drinks and bites.
- Senior Day sponsored by KVAL-TV (Wednesday, Nov. 22, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.) welcomes our community for special entertainment and treats.
- The elegant Starlight Celebration Gala (Saturday Nov. 25, 5:30 p.m.) invites you to put on your festive finest and enjoy a night out with friends.
- Light Up a Life (Sunday, Nov. 26, 4 p.m.), Cascade Health’s candlelight ceremony honoring loved ones lost, brings the week’s events to a meaningful close
For more information: https://www.cascadehealth.org/festival
Bushnell University School of Music and Performing Arts Presents A Bushnell Christmas
EUGENE, Ore. – Bushnell University’s School of Music and Performing Arts is pleased to welcome the community to a free event celebrating the birth of Christ: A Bushnell Christmas. This creative and spiritual musical celebration will feature a selection of holiday classics and contemporary favorites performed by the university choir, jazz ensemble, and choral.
The event will take place on Dec. 2 at 4:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church.
Kelly Ballard, D.Min., Associate Dean of Music and Performing Arts, acknowledges that “our students find great joy in all styles and genres of music and appreciate the opportunity to perform in welcoming spaces for appreciative audiences. We are honored and privileged to present this concert at First Baptist Church.”
The musical selection is woven together with a beautiful narrative of the meaning of Christmas. We hope you will come and experience a joyous, inspirational holiday concert for the entire family in A Bushnell Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of Christ together!
Program subject to change.
LOCATION: First Baptist Church of Eugene
Tickets: Free
Bushnell School of Music and Performing Arts is a nonprofit, 40+ student music school based in Eugene, Oregon led by Associate Dean, Dr. Kelly Ballard. The school provides students with fundamental musical knowledge, performance, and leadership skills, marked by innovation, creativity, and high academic standards. Digital content is offered through its social media channels. More at www.bushnell.edu.
PeaceHealth Announces More Closure Dates In Eugene
PeaceHealth announced today that its inpatient rehabilitation unit at University District in Eugene will relocate to PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend in Springfield on Dec. 15.
PeaceHealth is taking this step after announcing in August the start of a comprehensive process to close the underutilized University District hospital.
After the closure of the emergency department at University District at 7 a.m. on Dec. 1, the inpatient rehabilitation unit will be the only service remaining at the hospital until the unit moves to RiverBend on Dec. 15. Following the unit’s relocation to RiverBend, the hospital tower at University District will close.
The transition will mark the official end of services at the main “hospital tower” at University District, which is Eugene’s only hospital. The healthcare organization announced in August that it would phase out services at the facility, but until recently, had not announced specific closure dates.
All PeaceHealth Medical Group clinics on the west side of Hilyard Street and the outpatient rehabilitation clinic, plus the inpatient behavioral health unit on the corner of Alder Street and 11th Avenue, will remain open and serving patients.
Oregon Rehabilitation Center, PeaceHealth’s inpatient rehabilitation unit, serves adults recovering from such conditions as stroke, neurological disease, or brain or spinal cord injuries. The center will operate temporarily at RiverBend until the state-of-the-art, 50-bed rehabilitation hospital PeaceHealth is developing with Lifepoint opens in 2026.
———- Community leaders, as well as Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, have urged PeaceHealth to reconsider or delay the closure of the hospital. While there are two hospitals just several miles away in Springfield, including PeaceHealth’s RiverBend facility, officials in Eugene say the loss of a close-in emergency room could be potentially dangerous in emergency situations, or in the event of a major earthquake that damages or destroys bridges that cross the Willamette River.
Use this easy tool to email OHA and ask them to save Eugene’s hospital and protect Lane County residents: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/save-eugenes-hospital?source=direct_link&
- Learn more at www.SaveEugenesHospital.com.
1st press conference was livestreamed on the Oregon Nurses Association’s (ONA’s) Facebook page here.
The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) is the state’s largest and most influential nursing organization. We are a professional association and labor union which represents more than 16,000 nurses and allied health workers throughout Oregon. ONA’s mission is to advocate for nursing, quality health care and healthy communities. For more information visit: www.OregonRN.org.
Eugene, Springfield and Lane County to begin leaf pickup
Lane County and the cities of Eugene and Springfield are preparing to kick-off their annual leaf collection efforts. Removing leaves from catch basins, grates and gutters allows storm water to run off and prevents flooding.
In all three jurisdictions, property owners are responsible for leaves that are placed improperly in the street or cause safety or localized flooding hazards. Eugene and Lane County allow residents to pile leaves in the street, while Springfield only allows bagged leaves to be set out for collection.
Leaves are the only items collected. Piles with branches, pine needles, trash, grass and other lawn debris are not accepted and will not be collected.
To get the best information for your property, determine which jurisdiction provides service in your area, and then contact that agency. Here are the details for each jurisdiction:
For more information about Eugene’s leaf collection and delivery services, go to www.eugene-or.gov/leaf or call Eugene Public Works Maintenance at 541-682-4800.
For more information about leaf pickup in Springfield, visit www.springfield-or.gov/leafpickup, call 541-525-2658 or email ogram@springfield-or.gov“>leafpickupprogram@springfield-or.gov.
AAA projects that over 785,000 Oregonians will be traveling for Thanksgiving, making it the third-busiest travel period ever.
The majority of travelers, about 89%, will be driving to their destinations, with the busiest times being Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon and evening.
AAA advises travelers to make sure their vehicles are travel-ready and to be prepared for winter driving conditions.
Air travel is also expected to be busy, with a 6.5% increase compared to last year, and the busiest travel days are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday.
The Eugene Airport and Redmond Airport are both expecting record numbers of passengers and advise travelers to arrive early and check parking availability. Eugene Airport saw a jump of 19,000 flight bookings compared to 16,000 this time last year due to the increase of Thanksgiving travelers this year.
The Portland International Airport is preparing for hundreds of thousands of travelers this weekend. Nearly 240-thousand people are expected to go through the airport Wednesday through Sunday. The Port of Portland expected Sunday to be the busiest travel day of the weekend. Airport officials recommend getting to the airport two-and-a-half hours early for domestic flights.
Free parking at Oregon State Parks the day after Thanksgiving
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department invites Oregonians to head outside the day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 24.
Popularly known as “Green Friday,” the day after Thanksgiving has become a tradition for many families. State parks will once again waive day-use parking fees in the 24 parks that are open and charge for parking on that day.
“We’re proud to continue this tradition and offer everyone the chance to explore parks in the fall,” said Lisa Sumption, director of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
Parking is free year-round at almost all state parks; the waiver applies to the parks that charge $5 daily for parking. Fee parks include popular destinations such as Fort Stevens, Cape Lookout, Silver Falls, Champoeg, L.L. Stub Stewart, Smith Rock and Milo McIver. A complete list of parks that require day-use parking permits is available online at stateparks.oregon.gov (Fall Creek is listed, but closed for the season).
The fee waiver applies from open to close on Nov. 24, except at Shore Acres State Park, where it expires at 4 p.m. for the Holiday Lights event that runs Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Use #OregonStateParks and #OptOutside on social media to share your adventures.
Portland Teachers Temporarily Block Burnside Bridge In Third Week Of Strike
Teachers in Portland temporarily shut down a major bridge Tuesday morning as they marched in a strike started roughly three weeks ago.
The main issues involve pay, more planning time and smaller class sizes.
Members of the Portland Association of Teachers union and their supporters stopped in the middle of the Burnside Bridge for about 15 minutes, KGW reported. By 9 a.m. the bridge was clear and cars were driving across, according to the news outlet.
Photos posted by the union on its Facebook page showed teachers sitting down on the bridge donning blue clothes and holding banners calling for better pay and teaching conditions. The union had called on supporters to meet at its headquarters, roughly half a mile from the bridge, at 7:30 a.m. before beginning the march at 8 a.m.
Portland teachers have been on strike since Nov. 1, shuttering schools serving about 45,000 students in Oregon’s largest district. Students have missed 11 days of class because of the walkout.
Marion County District Attorney Asks Governor Kotek For Revocation Of Commutations Received By 57 Individuals Convicted In Marion County
In an effort to ensure community safety, Governor Tina Kotek formally asked Oregon’s District Attorneys, along with Community Corrections Directors, for their assistance in determining if individuals convicted within their jurisdiction should have their commutations revoked. (Governor’s letter attached)
The governor has the power to grant a lesser sentence than was imposed by a judge to any individual who has committed a crime. Governor Brown used this power in historic numbers to reduce hundreds of sentences resulting in the otherwise premature release of those individuals from prison. As the current Governor of Oregon, Tina Kotek has the authority and discretion to revoke a commutation that was previously granted by Governor Brown.
In response to the Governor’s request, Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson examined138 individual defendants who had been prosecuted by the Marion County District Attorney’s office, sentenced by a Marion County Judge, and then subsequently had their sentences commuted by Governor Brown. The analysis focused on any criminal involvement subsequent to receiving a commutation. As a result,District Attorney Clarkson has formally asked Governor Kotek to authorize the revocation of commutations received by 57 convicted individuals from Marion County. (District Attorney Letter, Attached)
In an effort to ensure that the requests for revocation were fair and just, District Attorney Clarkson’s staff exerted considerable time, effort, and resources to assess each commutation recipient on a case-by-case basis. (Spreadsheet Attached) In summary, District Attorney Clarkson’s analysis found, as follows:
11 of the 138 persons with Marion County commutations have victimized others by committing various person felonies and/or misdemeanors.
An additional 28 are currently wanted for crimes and violations or have already been convicted of a non-person crime since their grant of commutation and release from prison.
Two are currently serving prison sentences for felonies committed after their release but do not appear to have had their clemency revoked.
One is currently awaiting trial for Murder in the Second Degree with a firearm committed within only one year of Governor Brown’s release.
District Attorney Clarkson thanks Governor Kotek for her shared desire in keeping Oregon a safe place to live. For Clarkson, “Public safety should be a priority for every leader in our state. We must remain committed to a process of justice that keeps that goal at the forefront. Our review of these commutations is evidence that prior decisions lost sight of that. With this request to our Governor, we ask that previous missteps be remedied.”
In her letter to Oregon’s District Attorneys and Community Corrections Directors, Governor Kotek stated, “If I believe someone is violating their conditions of release or supervision and revocation is warranted, I will not hesitate to use my authority and discretion as Governor to revoke their commutation.” The Marion County District Attorney’s Office has submitted its formal revocation requests along with detailed supporting documentation to the Governor’s Office. Governor Kotek’s office has responded that they will review these requests.
Attached Media Files:2023-11/1416/168150/Clemency_Datasheet_Rls_11.17.23.xlsx , 2023-11/1416/168150/Governor_Commutation_Lt_Stakeholders1_August_2023.pdf , 2023-11/1416/168150/Revocation_Request_Letter-Governor_Nov_2023__(1).pdf
Harney County judge rules that Oregon gun control law Measure 114 is unconstitutional; State says it will appeal
BURNS – Harney County Circuit Court Judge Robert Raschio has ruled that Measure 114 is unconstitutional under Oregon’s constitution.
Judge Raschio issued a permanent injunction on Tuesday, November 21, which blocks Oregon from enforcing the gun control law, ruling it infringes on the constitutionally protected right to bear arms.
Measure 114 was approved by voters in November 2022 and would require a police-issued, five-year permit and a federal criminal background check on all gun purchases, as well as required gun safety training. The measure bans the sale of magazines holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition, but leaves an exception for people who already own larger magazines.
The measure has been tied up for nearly a year in federal and state court since voters narrowly passed the measure.
In December of 2023, Judge Raschio temporarily blocked the measure from taking effect after gun owners filed a lawsuit arguing it violated Oregon’s Constitution. It has also been challenged in federal court. In July, a judge ruled the measure did not violate the U.S. Constitution.
On Tuesday, Judge Raschio ruled that two major provisions of Measure 114 violate Article 1, Section 27 of the state’s constitution: “The people shall have the right to bear arms for the defence [sic] of themselves, and the State, but the Military shall be kept in strict subordination to the civil power.”
In the ruling, Raschio said that Measure 114 “does not increase public safety,” despite arguments from state lawyers that the new regulations were intended to reduce mass shootings, homicides and suicides. He stated that the 30-day window to process a gun permit application would allegedly prevent Oregonians from properly defending themselves from an imminent threat.
The ruling continues, “mass shooting events are tragic and often involve the most vulnerable
sections of the population. However, the court finds that the number of people killed and injured is statically insignificant compared to the number of lawful gun owners.”
Judge Raschio continues to say Measure 114’s permit-to-purchase scheme unduly burdens Oregonians’ right to self-defense from an imminent threat of harm.
Judge Raschio determined the permit-to-purchase scheme is unconstitutional based on the measure’s 30-day-minimum delay to buy a firearm, the measure’s use of language from concealed handgun statutes, and because the Federal Bureau of Investigation refuses to conduct criminal background checks.
Raschio also determined the ban on large-capacity magazines is also unconstitutional under the state constitution because firearm components, such as magazines, are legally protected and magazines are a necessary part of guns, according to the ruling.
“The court finds no proof offered demonstrated Large Capacity Magazine bans would reduce the number of causalities in the future. Any such conclusion would be mere speculation by the court which it will not engage,” Raschio said.
The plaintiffs — Joseph Arnold, Cliff Asmussen, Gun Owners of America, Inc., and Gun Owners Foundation — argued Measure 114 violates the state constitution because the 30-day permit process prohibits Oregonians’ right to access a gun. Plaintiffs further argued the magazine limit prohibits self-defense.
The lawsuit was filed against Governor Tina Kotek, Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum, and Oregon State Police Superintendent Casey Codding.
Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum issued this statement after Raschio’s ruling: “The Harney County judge’s ruling is wrong. Worse, it needlessly puts Oregonians’ lives at risk. The state will file an appeal and we believe we will prevail.” – (SOURCE)
Office of Economic Analysis Releases Updated December 2023 Economic and Revenue Forecast
Salem, OR — Today, the Office of Economic Analysis (OEA) released corrected numbers for the December 2023 economic and revenue forecast.
OEA released the December 2023 Economic and Revenue Forecast on Wednesday, November 15, which indicated an increase in Insurance Taxes relative to the previous September 2023 forecast. The previously published forecast overstated General Fund revenues by $117.7 million.
Following additional research, the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) informed OEA that recent tax audit activity would reduce their Insurance Tax collections by $68 million, not increase them as DCBS previously indicated. This change results in a net reduction of $136 million relative to the published numbers.
When OEA updated the Insurance Tax numbers to reflect this change, the office found that the outlook was also being incorrectly adjusted for previous legislation. As those impacts are now being realized in actual tax collections, a separate adjustment is no longer needed in the outlook. By not removing the adjustment, OEA understated Insurance Taxes by $18.3 million.
Combined, the previously published forecast overstated General Fund revenues by $117.7 million. The corrected numbers are as follows:
- Total Net General Fund revenues in the current 2023-25 biennium are $25.6 billion, an increase of $217.7 million in the corrected December forecast compared to the September forecast.
- The estimated ending balance now stands at $1.09 billion, a corrected $655 million above the Close of Session forecast.
Updated materials have been posted on OLIS here and on OEA’s website here.
Oregon State Treasury’s $1 Billion Bond Sale Recognized As Bond Buyer’s Regional “Deal of the Year”
Salem, OR—The Bond Buyer announced Oregon State Treasury’s March 2023 General Obligation (GO) bond sale as its “Deal of the Year” for the Far West region. One of five regional award winners, Treasury’s sale generated nearly $1 billion in funding for statewide capital projects and provided Oregonians with a unique opportunity to invest in their state.
Treasury and other award winners will be recognized at a ceremony to be held in early December, where The Bond Buyer will also announce its national “Deal of the Year” recipient. Treasury is one of 10 finalists.
“We’re honored to receive this award from The Bond Buyer. The recognition is a testament to the innovative work and planning done by our Debt Management team at Treasury and our many partners,” said Oregon State Treasurer Tobias Read. “This bond sale succeeded by offering an exciting, equitable opportunity to invest in Oregon and we were thrilled by the response we saw from local investors and the broader investment community.”
Facilitated through Treasury’s Buy Oregon Bonds Program last spring, the bond offering provided Oregonians an opportunity to invest in Oregon through the bond sale’s $1,000 denomination offering (lower than the normal $5,000 denominations). The goal of the reduced offering was to attract a wider range of local investors and provide Oregonians more accessible opportunities for investing in the state. The $109 million in bond purchases by Oregon retail investors was the largest in recent history for bond sales.
Treasury’s Debt Management team wrapped up the GO bond sale on March 15, 2023, after securing favorable financing despite a market environment in flux. As a result, the State of Oregon is estimated to get a $40 million boost to the general fund thanks to savings in interest costs over time.
The Bond Buyer launched the Deal of the Year awards to recognize outstanding achievements in municipal finance. Announced annually, The Bond Buyer names 10 winners: five regional awards and five in additional categories. All regional and category winners are finalists for the national “Deal of the Year” award.
The Bond Buyer is a daily national trade newspaper based in New York City and focused on covering the municipal bond industry. To learn more about The Bond Buyer’s 2023 “Deal of the Year” awards, please see their announcement here: https://www.bondbuyer.com/news/bond-buyer-announce…
For more information about the Buy Oregon Bonds Program visit: www.BuyOregonBonds.com
About Oregon State Treasury
The Oregon State Treasury improves the financial well-being of all Oregonians. We provide low-cost banking, debt management, and investment programs for governments and empower Oregonians to invest in themselves and their loved ones through the Oregon College Savings Plan, Oregon ABLE Savings Plan, and OregonSaves. Treasury also facilitates the state’s Unclaimed Property Program. (SOURCE)
Douglas County Homicide Investigation Underway – Suspect on the Loose
RIDDLE, Ore. – A Grants Pass man is dead and another is wounded after a shooting on Monday night in Riddle.
On Monday, November 20, 2023, shortly after 11:30 p.m., 9-1-1 dispatchers received information about a shooting which had taken place in the area of Main Street / E. Third Avenue in Riddle.
Deputies arrived on scene to learn that one victim, 20-year-old Devonte Lovell Clark of Grant Pass had died at the scene.
A second Grants Pass man, 29-year-old Killian Mavity, sustained a gunshot wound to the arm. Mavity was transported to an undisclosed hospital for treatment of his injuries.
Detectives are currently seeking information as to the whereabouts of 19-year-old Gauge Douglas James Main of Riddle. Main left the scene of the shooting after stealing a silver 2017 Honda Civic 4-door sedan bearing Oregon license plate 276PAT. Main should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who observes the vehicle or Main is asked to call 9-1-1. A booking photo of Main is being released per Oregon House Bill 3273.
The Douglas County Major Crimes Team is investigating the incident, which is being led by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. The Major Crimes Team consists of investigators from the Sheriff’s Office, Roseburg Police Department and Oregon State Police working in consultation with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office. Reference Case #23-4651
Secretary Griffin-Valade Concludes Review of OLCC Audit
Salem, OR—Oregon Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade concluded a review of the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission audit today. The audit was originally released in April of this year, prior to former Secretary of State Shemia Fagan’s resignation over a consulting contract with a cannabis company.
The Secretary will instruct auditors to maintain the report as issued and attach a memo outlining her review process. In addition, the Secretary has directed the Oregon Audits Division to make several changes to its processes in response to recommendations from an independent review of the audit.
“There’s no doubt public confidence was shaken by the former Secretary’s actions,” said Secretary Griffin-Valade. “However, the public interest in this case is best served by independent auditors providing evidence-supported recommendations to state government. Neither my review nor any other has uncovered a reason to think this report is anything short of that standard. For that reason, I encourage the auditee and other state leaders to treat this report with the same high regard they do any other report from the Oregon Audits Division.”
The Secretary’s memo, which outlines the findings of a month-long review process, aims to restore public trust in the report by clarifying the sound evidence on which the report stands and demonstrating that the former Secretary’s actions did not impact the contents of the report.
An independent review of the audit by Sjoberg Evashenk Consulting on behalf of the Oregon Department of Justice concluded that auditors could have done more to address public perception of the audit as the former Secretary’s actions came to light. Secretary Griffin-Valade agrees with this finding, and based on recommendations in Sjoberg’s report, has directed the Audits Division to initiate the following process improvements to protect against future threats to independence.
1. The Division will revise its audit process to remove the Executive Office and Secretary from the two scoping meetings attended by former Secretaries. This change will clarify the Secretary’s limited role in the audit process and strengthen the Division’s independence.
2. Even though auditors followed governmental auditing standards with regard to independence protocols, the Division will go further to strengthen its independence policy to ensure that threats and conflicts of interest are carefully reviewed and documented at multiple points during each audit engagement.
3. The Division will overhaul its audit plan process to document a standardized, risk-assessment based approach in determining which audit subjects are chosen.
4. The Division will contract with a third-party, independent consultant to develop further improvements to the audit plan risk assessment process.
Secretary Griffin-Valade has 16 years of experience as a government auditor, including serving on the Association of Local Government Auditors’ peer review committee. (SOURCE)
Federal Charges Filed After “Fentanyl Press” Found in Gladstone Apartment
PORTLAND, Ore.—An 18-year-old drug trafficker with ties to a recent fatal overdose is facing federal charges after he was caught transporting several packages of powdered fentanyl and a 20-ton shop press used to manufacture fentanyl bricks was found in his apartment.
Cristhian Martinez, 18, of Gladstone, Oregon, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, in September 2023, members of the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF) were called to investigate a fatal overdose in Clackamas County. While processing the scene, investigators discovered numerous counterfeit M30 Oxycodone pills believed to be manufactured with fentanyl. Martinez was soon identified as the person who sold fentanyl to the deceased victim’s dealer.
On November 16, 2023, investigators located Martinez traveling north from California into Oregon, followed his vehicle and conducted a traffic stop in Gladstone. During a K-9 sweep of Martinez’s vehicle, investigators found multiple concealed packages containing more than 1,000 grams of compressed fentanyl.
Later the same day, investigators executed a federal search warrant on Martinez’s Gladstone apartment where they located a fentanyl manufacturing and distribution operation. They seized additional quantities of fentanyl, a 20-ton shop press used to produce bricks of fentanyl powder, ten handguns, an AR-15 style assault rifle, ammunition, and other materials consistent with drug trafficking.
Martinez made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.
This case was investigated by the FBI, CCITF, and Westside Interagency Narcotics team (WIN). It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
CCITF, led by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations operating in and around Clackamas County, and reduce illegal drugs and related crimes throughout the community. The task force is comprised of members of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Canby Police Department, Oregon State Police, FBI, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
WIN is a Washington County-based interagency drug interdiction task force that includes members from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Beaverton and Hillsboro Police Departments, Oregon National Guard Counter Drug Program, FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and HSI.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Homeowner Shoots and Kills Suspect During Shady Cove Home Invasion Burglary
JCSO 23-6644 — SHADY COVE, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives are investigating a homicide that occurred last night in Shady Cove around 2:02 a.m. ECSO Dispatch received a call that a homeowner had shot a suspect during a home-invasion burglary in the area of Cleveland Street in Shady Cove. JCSO deputies responded, and Mercy Flights medics attempted life-saving measures. The suspect was pronounced deceased at 2:34 a.m.
JCSO detectives are investigating claims of self-defense during the home-invasion burglary. An occupant of the home held a valid protection order against the suspect. There have been no arrests, and all parties are cooperating with the investigation.
Upon completion of the investigation, detectives will forward the case to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office for review. Due to the sensitive nature and ongoing investigation, names will not be released at this time. Further information will be released at a later time in coordination with the DA’s Office.
Portland Area Man Charged with Coercing and Enticing a Minor Online
PORTLAND, Ore.—A transient man residing in Tigard, Oregon is facing federal charges for using social media to coerce and entice an 11-year-old child into engaging in criminal sexual activity.
Jakob Joshua Stickney, 25, has been charged by criminal complaint with coercing and enticing a minor.
According to court documents, in October 2023, the FBI and Portland Police Bureau (PPB) began investigating Stickney after receiving information that he had been engaging in sexually explicit communications with a 11-year-old child on Discord, an instant messaging social media application. On multiple occasions, Stickney, who used by the names “UNHOLY,” “unholy_xx2,” or “Unholy_22x” online, attempted to arrange an in-person meetup with the child. On at least one occasion, Stickney went in person to the child’s house where he was observed and confronted by the child’s mother, who reported the contact to law enforcement.
Stickney was located November 17, 2023, in Tigard and arrested without incident. He made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.
This case was investigated by the FBI and PPB. It is being prosecuted by Eliza Carmen Rodriguez, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Anyone who has information about possible crimes committed by Stickney, or the physical or online exploitation of any children, are encouraged to call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Red Cross responds to growing disaster-driven humanitarian needs — American Red Cross Cascades Region
Donate on Giving Tuesday or give blood during the holidays to help for future crises
In 2023, extreme disasters took a devastating toll on people in the U.S. who turned to the American Red Cross for help coping with a record number of billion-dollar disasters.
So far this year, an all-time high of 25 billion-dollar disasters ravaged communities across the country and in the Cascades Region, wildfires resulted in nearly 400 overnight shelter stays in 2023. Back-to-back disasters led to a series of blood drive cancellations, which further strained the national Red Cross blood supply that was already dwindling from summer travel and back-to-school activities.
“Growing extreme disasters are causing more humanitarian needs for families in the Pacific Northwest and across the country,” explained Priscilla Fuentes, CEO, Red Cross Cascades. “This holiday season, please remember those who need support in the face of emergencies — and join us to provide care and comfort by making a financial donation or by giving blood or platelets.”
Help on Giving Tuesday and during the holidays by visiting redcross.org to make a financial donation or an appointment to give blood or platelets. Individuals can also register for volunteer opportunities in their area.
INCREASING SUPPORT AMID EXTREME DISASTERS With the growing frequency and intensity of climate-driven disasters, the Red Cross is racing to adapt its services and grow its disaster response capacity across the country. As part of this national work in 2023, the Red Cross distributed $108 million in financial assistance directly to people after disasters of all sizes, including for wildfire recovery in the Cascades Region.
Across the country, the Red Cross is delivering this vital financial assistance on top of its immediate relief efforts — including safe shelter, nutritious meals and emotional support — which have been provided on a near-constant basis for this year’s relentless extreme disasters. In fact, this year’s onslaught of large disasters drove an increase in emergency lodging provided by the Red Cross with partners — with overnight stays up more than 50% compared to the annual average for the previous five years.
In the Cascades Region we opened four times as many evacuation shelters in June than previous years because of a wildfire season that burned more than 250,000 acres across Oregon and SW Washington. Altogether, nearly 200 of our local volunteers responded to disasters in 2023, including more than 770 in the Cascades Region.
RESPONDING TO ADDITIONAL EMERGING NEEDS Beyond extreme disasters, people stepped up through the Red Cross to address other emerging needs for communities, including:
BLOOD DONATIONS: As the nation’s largest blood supplier, the Red Cross is grateful for the millions of donors who rolled up a sleeve throughout the year and helped us meet the needs of patients in the Cascades Region in 2023. To further improve people’s health outcomes, the Red Cross has been working with community partners to introduce blood donation to a new and more diverse generation of blood donors — which is critical to ensuring that a reliable blood supply is available to the 1 in 7 hospital patients who need a lifesaving blood transfusion. The holidays can be a challenging time to collect enough blood for those in need. To book a time to give, visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS. As a thank-you, all who come to give blood, platelets or plasma Dec. 1-17 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Terms apply. See rcblood.org/Amazon.
LIFESAVING TRAINING: This year, the Cascades Region has trained more than 57,000 people in lifesaving-skills while, nationally, the Red Cross expanded its training to empower people to act during current-day crises — which is vital considering that nearly half of U.S. adults report being unprepared to respond to a medical emergency. This included launching the new “Until Help Arrives” online training course last spring for opioid overdoses, severe bleeding, cardiac arrest and choking emergencies, and partnering with professional sports leagues through the Smart Heart Sports Coalition to help prevent tragedies among student athletes by offering CPR training and increasing access to AEDs.
MILITARY FAMILIES: Red Cross workers helped service members on U.S. military installations and deployment sites worldwide — including in Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. As part of our support this year, Red Cross volunteers delivered emergency communications messages connecting more than 87,000 service members with their loved ones during times of family need, while also engaging members in morale and wellness activities during deployments.
Visit www.redcross.org/CascadesGiving for more information about how the Red Cross Cascades Region helped people in 2023.
About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and is the primary blood supplier to 65 hospitals throughout Washington and Oregon; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
Lead-contaminated WanaBana applesauce impacting children, families in Oregon
PORTLAND, Ore. – State and local health officials have identified multiple children in Oregon with elevated blood lead levels after they ate certain pouches of applesauce called WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée.
The elevated blood lead reports follow a safety and recall alert from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late October warning parents and caregivers against buying or feeding the product to young children.
As of Nov. 15, local public health investigators have found a total of six cases of elevated blood lead levels in children who ate WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée. The children live in Lake, Lincoln, Multnomah and Washington counties. Some of the families learned about the FDA alert through local news and online media reports that prompted parents and caregivers to report possible exposure to health care providers.
WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée is distributed nationwide through retailers including Dollar Tree, Amazon and other online stores. Additionally, since the FDA alert Oct. 28, two other brands of applesauce products sold at Schnucks and Weis Markets have become subject to the recall, though they are not available in Oregon.
A collaborative investigation by state and local partners, FDA’s Coordinated Outbreak Response & Evaluation (CORE) Network, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is ongoing.
While WanaBana has agreed to voluntarily recall all WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée pouches regardless of their expiration dates, some people may have bought the product before the recall announcement. Families should check their homes and throw away any pouches they find.
“While lead is toxic for all people regardless of age, small children are especially at risk because they’re still growing and developing,” said Ryan Barker, Oregon Health Authority’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program coordinator. “Continued exposure over time can permanently damage their central nervous system, which may result in long-term health problems, such as learning disorders, impaired speech and brain damage.”
Signs of lead poisoning are not always easy to see and can be mistaken for other illnesses. Without a blood test, lead poisoning may go undiagnosed, especially since affected children often don’t look or act sick.
Possible signs of lead exposure and symptoms in children include:
- Tiredness or loss of energy.
- Hyperactivity.
- Reduced attention span.
- Irritability or crankiness.
- Poor appetite.
- Weight loss.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Constipation.
- Aches or pains in stomach.
Parents and caregivers concerned about a child’s exposure to WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée should contact their health care provider to request a blood test.
More information on blood testing and lead can be found on the following pages:
- CDC’s Testing Children for Lead Poisoning
- Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units Medical Management of Childhood Lead Exposure
- Oregon Health Authority’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
FDA Issues Recall Alert for Dog and Cat Foods Sold in Oregon Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
The Food and Drug Administration is alerting pet owners to a recall of certain pet foods that could be contaminated with Salmonella. TFP Nutrition and the FDA said all dry dog food and all dry cat food manufactured in one of TFP’s Texas facilities is contaminated and should be disposed of.
Brands affected by the recall include Exclusive Signature Dog and Cat Food and Feline Medley Formula Cat Food. The recalled food was sold at several pet and animal supply stores in Oregon.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said babies and young children can get sick from contaminated pet food if they have access to pet food bowls on the floor, put pet food in their mouths, or if caregivers don’t wash their hands after feeding pets.
Pet owners are urged to throw away recalled pet food and clean any surfaces that might have come in contact with the pet food.
Suppliers who may have sold the recalled pet food include:
- Wilco stores all over Oregon
- H and E Feed in Eugene
- Junction City Farm and Garden
- Old Mill Farm Store in Cottage Grove
- Country Farms and Ranch Supplies in Creswell
- The Farm Store and J and S Supply in Veneta
- Sweet Home Feed and Supply
- Out West Farm and Ranch in Philomath
- Scio Farm Store
- Central Feed and Supply in Sutherlin
- Douglas County Farmers Co-op in Roseburg
- Tractor Supply Co. in Junction City and Creswell
More information on the recall, including a comprehensive list of the pet foods affected by the recall, can be found at TFP’s website and the FDA’s website.
Unusual Respiratory Illness Effecting Oregon Dogs
Veterinary laboratories in several states are investigating an unusual respiratory illness in dogs and encouraging people to take basic precautions to keep their pets healthy as veterinarians try to pin down what’s making the animals sick.
Oregon, Colorado and New Hampshire are among the states that have seen cases of the illness, which has caused lasting respiratory disease and pneumonia and does not respond to antibiotics.
Symptoms of respiratory illness in dogs include coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge and lethargy. Some cases of the pneunomia progress quickly, making dogs very sick within 24 to 36 hours.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture has documented more than 200 cases of the disease since mid-August. It has encouraged pet owners to contact their vet if their dog is sick and told state veterinarians to report cases as soon as possible. The agency is working with state researchers and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory to find out what is causing the illnesses.
Dogs have died, said Kurt Williams, director of the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University. But without a clear way to define the disease or test for it, he said it’s hard to put a number on how many died from a severe form of the infection.
Williams had a simple message for dog owners: “Don’t panic.” He also said dog owners should make sure that their pets are up to date on vaccines, including those that protect against various respiratory illnesses.
Labs across the country have been sharing their findings as they try to pinpoint the culprit.
David Needle, senior veterinary pathologist at the University of New Hampshire’s New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, has been investigating the mysterious disease for almost a year.
His lab and colleagues at the university’s Hubbard Center for Genome Research have looked at samples from dogs in Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Massachusetts and more will be coming from Oregon, Colorado and possibly other states.
He said his team has not seen a large increase in dogs dying from the illness but still encouraged pet owners to “decrease contact with other dogs.” (SOURCE)
Oregon Food Bank Teams Up With Shari’s to Raise Donations and Educate About Hunger
Shari’s Restaurant is partnering with the Oregon Food Bank for an education campaign. They are working together to launch a series of public service announcements to educate the community about hunger and raise donations for the food bank.
– Shari’s Restaurants (“Shari’s”), one of the largest full-service community restaurant chains in the Pacific Northwest, today announced that it has partnered with Oregon Food Bank on an education campaign to raise awareness for the fight against hunger. Through the partnership, Shari’s and Oregon Food Bank will develop a series of public service announcements designed to tell the full story of hunger and the breadth of anti-hunger work and to mobilize local communities across the state to take action against food insecurity and its root causes.
Oregon Food Bank, which is a member of Feeding America®, seeks to provide access to nutritious food for all while building community power and working across systems and networks to eliminate hunger. From Oregon Food Bank’s 21 regional food banks, the organization distributes free food equitably across the Network in Oregon and SW Washington and advocates for policies and programs to address the root causes of hunger.
“Shari’s is a community-oriented, family-style restaurant at its core, and we recognize the importance of lending a helping hand to our neighbors in need,” said Sam Borgese, principal of Gather Holdings and owner of Shari’s. “We are proud to renew our partnership with Oregon Food Bank and to play a part in raising necessary awareness and funds in the critical fight against food insecurity.”
“We are so grateful to Shari‘s for joining Oregon Food Bank to spread the true story of hunger,” shared Oregon Food Bank President Susannah Morgan. “Distributing enough food today will not end hunger tomorrow. Together, we’re working to fundamentally shift common understanding of food insecurity, its root causes and the actions needed to end hunger for good.”
Shari’s first partnered with Oregon Food Bank alongside Sysco food distribution on a similar education campaign during the 2019 holiday season. The campaign raised approximately $13,500 to support Oregon Food Bank’s end-of-year efforts against hunger.
Douglas County Celebrates the 50th Annual Christmas Craft Fair
(Douglas County, Ore.) The kick off for the 2023 Christmas holiday season is fast approaching and in Douglas County that means it’s time for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Courthouse on November 26, followed by the Annual Christmas Craft Fairat the Douglas County Fairgrounds December 1-3. This year the Douglas County Commissioners are excited to join with the Douglas County Fairgrounds staff in promoting the long-standing Christmas craft tradition a half-century in the making. That’s right, this year marks the 50th Anniversary of the Christmas Craft Fair at the Douglas County Fairgrounds.
The Christmas Craft Fair at the Douglas County Fairgrounds started with humble beginnings in 1973 in the old Community Conference Hall at the Fairgrounds with about 50 local vendors. Since then, it has grown into the largest event of its kind in Douglas County and is considered the largest and most popular Christmas Fair in Southern Oregon. Each year 12-13,000 guests make their way to the Douglas County Fairgrounds Complex to peruse over 300 booths spanning three buildings and purchase their favorite hand-crafted items from a selection of over 250 vendors. A plethora of hand-crafted items are available including Christmas ornaments, holiday decorations & signs, clothing, home décor, baked goods, dips, jerky, spices, lotions, soaps, wood crafts, metal sculptures, paintings, toys, crocheted hats & mittens, quilts, ceramics, and numerous other unique products. The fair is proud of its history in promoting local artisans by only allowing hand-crafted items, and not permitting commercially produced items.
In fact, the event is so popular that for several years booth spaces have been sold out. This year there were 151 people on the vendor waiting list hoping to garner a much-coveted booth space. Returning vendors have first pick of booth space for the next year, and many return year after year…often in the exact same location. Most of the vendors are local and have set up booths and sold their crafts for not just years, but decades. Vendors like Todaline Barrick (50-year vendor), Myra Boyd (49-year vendor) and Victoria Hokanson (47-year vendor) have spent a lifetime perfecting and creating unique items to sell at the Christmas Craft Fair each year.
For Myra Boyd, this is a much-anticipated event each year. She has spent nearly five decades creating hand sewn or crocheted rag dolls, stuffed animals, jointed teddy bears, potholders, aprons, and doll clothes. While she missed the very first year of the fair, a friend offered to let her share a booth the second year and she has returned every year since. This is just a hobby for Myra, through the years she worked full-time and raised four kids all while finding time to sew and crochet enough items to fill her booth. She has seen a lot of craft trends and vendors come and go, but she said she cherishes her return customers that head directly to her booth each year to say hello and buy her hand-made items. She also treasures the camaraderie with fellow long-time vendors who have become life-long friends.
“The Christmas Craft Fair is just one of many amazing events hosted by the Douglas County Fairgrounds. The Fairgrounds Complex is a tremendous economic asset for Douglas County offering several hosted events each year that bring in tens of thousands of visitors from all over like the Spring, Fall and Christmas Craft Fairs, the Poker Craze, Brew-Ha-Ha, and the Douglas County Fair. They also offer various event rental options and have and continue to host the Sportsman & Outdoor Shows, Kart & Dirt Track Racing, Horse, Dog & Lamb Shows, Circus & Dance Shows, Gun & Knife Shows, Father Daughter Dance, High School Proms, Swap Meets, Flower Shows, Rodeos, Fire Camps, Red Cross Shelter, Drive-Thru Shot Clinics, Motorcycle Riding Classes, Conventions, Community Fundraisers, Weddings, Funerals, Reunions, Company Parties, Seminars, Luncheons, Meetings, and so much more. Many people may not realize this, but the Fairgrounds is a year-round hub of activity and brings much needed tourist and hospitality revenue to our local hotels, restaurants, and stores,” stated Board Chair and Liaison Commissioner Tom Kress.
The Christmas Craft Fair at the Douglas County Fairgrounds will run from Friday, December 1, 2023, through Sunday, December 3, 2023. Hours are Friday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm; Saturday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm and Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Santa will make appearances in the Exhibit Building on Friday: 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm; Saturday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm & 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Sunday: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm. Admission is $5.00 for adults and kids under 12 are free. The Craft Fair is also helping to stock local food pantries and provide pajamas for local foster care kids by accepting donations at the door. Entrants donating canned food will receive a $1.00 discount at the door. There will be vendor donated door prizes drawn every hour, and a special drawing for a big door prize package to celebrate our 50th year. For more information check out the attached flyer or visit their website at www.douglasfairgrounds.com.
We hope you will join us at the 50th Annual Christmas Craft Fair, doors open Friday, December 1, 2023, at 10:00 am.
Silver Falls State Park hosts Winter Festival Dec. 9 and 10
Enjoy guided nature hikes, seasonal crafts and educational activities at the Silver Falls State Park Winter Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 9 and 10.
Visitors will have a chance to learn about the park in winter including the changing landscapes and habitats for resident and migratory birds and animals.
Activities include guided walks and talks; building bird nest boxes; making bird feeders and paper bird crafts; creating wreaths and decorating gingerbread and sugar cookies.
Schedule of Activities:
- Make a wreath at the Evergreen Picnic Shelter (South Falls day-use area)
- Build a bird nest box at the Creekside Shelter (South Falls day-use are)
- Make a bird feeder or paper bird craft in the Stone Kitchen Shelter (South Falls day-use area)
- Attend a short educational talk or guided walk at the South Falls Theater (South Falls day-use area unless otherwise noted)
- 11 a.m.: Winter Hibernators Walk (45-minute walk at Smith Creek Village)
- 12 p.m.: Mushroom ID hike (1-hour hike)
- 1 p.m.: Winter Tree ID hike (1-hour hike)
- 2 p.m.: Learn to Love a Lichen (20-minute talk)
- 3 p.m.: Winter birds of Silver Falls (20-minute talk)
- Visit a discovery table near South Falls to learn about the waterfalls in winter or learn about the winter solstice (South Falls day-use area)
- Decorate a cookie, make a paper bird craft or learn about winter animal tracks (Smith Creek Village, 1.5 miles from the South Falls day-use area)
- Earn a commemorative Silver Falls ornament from taking part in at least five of the above activities
All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $5 per day; annual permits, normally $30, are on sale for $25 in the month of December and are available at the park. For more information, visit the event page on our calendar at stateparks.oregon.gov or call 503-874-0201.
PART 2 – Newsweek Podcast Focusing on The Disappearance of Fauna Frey From Lane County
Here One Minute, Gone the Next —-– PART 2 – Josephine County Sheriff Dave Daniel joins investigative journalist Alex Rogue to speak with Here One Minute, Gone the Next about the disappearance of Fauna Frey, the growing friction between citizen investigators and law enforcement, and the lack of resources in missing persons cases. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-disappearance-of-fauna-frey-pt2-feat-sheriff/id1707094441?i=1000630100040
PART 1 – John Frey joins Newsweek to discuss exclusive details about the case of his missing daughter that until now have been unavailable to the general public.
If you have any information on the whereabouts of Fauna Frey, call the anonymous tip line at 541-539-5638 or email FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com. — Help Find Fauna Frey #FindFaunaFrey FACEBOOK GROUP
Missing Yachats Man’s Vehicle Found in North Lane County
On 08/25/2023, Dustin Steyding was reported missing to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office after he left work on 07/22/2023 and hadn’t been located since. Dustin was living and working in the Yachats area.
Dustin was reported to be in good physical condition, having previously worked as a hot shot firefighter in New Mexico. Dustin is very experienced in the woods and commonly goes out for hikes to stay in shape. Without means to locate Dustin, Deputies entered Dustin as a missing person in a national database.
On 09/04/2023, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a call from Dustin’s family after they located his vehicle on Keller Creek Rd, just outside of Lincoln County in Lane County. Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies contacted the vehicle and determined it had been at the location for some time. Deputies were unable to determine Dustin’s direction of travel from the vehicle.
The vehicle having been located in Lane County, Lincoln County Deputies contacted the Lane County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team and arranged for their response the next day to started searching the area. After two days of searching, no clues to Dustin’s have been found.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Dustin Steyding should contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777 and reference case number 23S-07321.
