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
Monday, December 18, 2023
Willamette Valley Weather
Governor Kotek Says She’s Monitoring PeaceHealth Closure
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek said she’s closely watching the closure of Eugene’s only hospital, PeaceHealth University District.
Hospital leaders have said the Eugene location lost about $2 million a month and was underutilized.
University District’s emergency department closed Dec. 1 and its inpatient rehabilitation wing closed Friday.
Kotek is one of several political leaders who’ve spoken out against the decision to shutter the facility. She said she’s also addressing similar concerns in Baker County, which recently lost its maternity ward.
“This is part of a larger national trend,” Kotek said. “The Oregon Health Authority is going to be keeping an eye on making sure that Eugene Springfield has the hospital services that they need. And no one is off the hook here. Yes there are workforce issues, yes there are financing issues and you are a hospital that is providing a public good, and you need to make sure you are providing a certain level of care.”
Kotek said her administration has already approved expedited licenses to maintain behavioral health services downtown. She said her team is also in conversation with hospital leaders to ensure the region has access to care.
The governor spoke during a visit to Eugene Thursday, which was the final stop on her statewide listening tour.
Eugene Public Library Cards To Be Delivered To All 4J Students
The initiative covers all K-12 students enrolled at 4J neighborhood and alternative schools
Starting soon, each of Eugene School District 4J’s nearly 15,000 students will receive a library card, free of charge and ready to use.
This initiative represents an expansion of the ongoing partnership between Eugene Public Library and 4J. The school district will distribute the library cards in each school beginning this month and January.
These new student cards will provide immediate access to Eugene Public Library’s online resources and the ability to borrow five physical items at a time. Online resources include e-books, audiobooks, research information, live homework help by professional tutors, streaming movies including documentaries and instructional videos, music and more. Physical items include books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, art and technology tools, games, puppets and more.
“A public library card is one of the most powerful tools for educational success,” Eugene Public Library Acting Director Angela Ocaña said. “School libraries do an amazing job of serving students onsite. Now, 4J students will also be given automatic access to their larger public library as well. We’re overjoyed to get library cards into the hands of even more kids and teens in our community so they can benefit from endless opportunities for learning and fun.”
All K-12 students enrolled at 4J neighborhood and alternative schools are eligible for the cards. Charter schools are not included. Parents were provided with an advance opportunity to opt out of the program. The school district will provide $10,000 annually to support the student card project.
Student cards can be upgraded to a standard library card at no charge with a call or visit to the library. Each school year, student cards will be automatically renewed for continuing 4J students and new cards will be issued to those joining the district. District students who already have a standard library card may choose to keep and use both cards or they can cancel one of their cards.
This new program is the first time preprocessed library cards have been conveniently distributed directly to students in Eugene schools. Eugene Public Library already offers free cards to all students enrolled in Eugene School District 4J and Bethel School District, as well as to all children ages 0-5 who live within those school districts. However, completing registration for a standard card requires a visit to the library, and for cardholders under 16 years old, a parent must visit as well.
For more information about school distribution of student cards, contact the student’s school office. For more information about library card accounts and services, contact Eugene Public Library at eugene-or.gov/library or 541-682-5450. MORE INFO: https://www.eugene-or.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=6341
Eugene Police to Conduct DUII High Visibility Enforcement Through New Year’s Day
• The Eugene Police Department has received the Oregon Impact DUII High Visibility Enforcement Overtime grant.
• A DUII saturation patrol will start on December 16 and continue through New Year’s Day to target impaired drivers.
• The grant allows for additional police staffing to ensure officers are available to conduct DUII investigations, which typically take about four hours.
• The Eugene Police Department advises the public to plan ahead by choosing designated drivers, using taxis or ride services, and ensuring guests have sober drivers after parties.
• The public is encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911.
We have received recent reports of a scam in our community.
The scammers commonly identify themselves as employees of the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, either verbally, by text, or by email. The scammers will then make claims that there are warrants, missed jury duty, or unsettled legal business that involve the victim or someone the victim knows and ask for personal or financial information.
In some instances the scammers appear to call from official phone numbers and/or provide fraudulent callback numbers with voicemail inboxes.
***Please be aware that the Lane County Sheriff’s Office will never ask for money, awards, or compensation of any type over the telephone, by text or email.*** If you are contacted by someone claiming to be a Lane County Sheriff’s Office employee and you think you are being scammed, please contact our dispatch center at 541-682-4150 opt. 1.
Lane County looking for rural residents who need help reducing wildfire risk around their homes
Rural residents who need help with fuels reduction to help make their homes less at risk from wildfire may be able to receive up to $4,000 in work from Lane County – and, unlike other grant programs, it does not require property owners to cover any of the cost.
The focus of the grant is providing 50 feet of defensible space around homes through vegetation clearing.
“This new grant funding is going to make a big difference for at least 100 properties in our community,” said Lane County Land Management Technician Cammryne Anderson. “Other programs that we run require property owners to cover the costs up front and then reimburse for part of the total cost depending on the project. With this funding, we will be able to provide $4,000 in work by a County-coordinated contractor. Our residents won’t need to provide funding up front or attempt to hire their own contractor.”
Residents must live in unincorporated Lane County. Residents who are elderly, low-income, disabled or otherwise vulnerable and who live in high-risk areas will be given priority.
Lane County is collecting interest forms through February 29, 2024. The interest forms were designed to be simple and quick for people to fill out. Selected property owners will be contacted by Lane County to schedule a site visit before any work begins in spring and summer of 2024.
The funding comes from a grant awarded to Lane County by the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
Interested residents can submit their interest form online at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/CWRR or contact program staff at R@LaneCountyOR.gov“>CWRR@LaneCountyOR.gov or 541-682-6702.
Lane County secures grant funds to support housing rehabilitation in Oakridge and Westfir areas
Lane County has received $500,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to invest in the Regional Housing Rehabilitation Program. The funding is expected to become available in spring of 2024.
The Regional Housing Rehabilitation Program, which was created in 2001, is administered by St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County. It provides secured loans to low- and moderate-income homeowners to fix health, safety or structural deficiencies, as well as accessibility modifications, to help homeowners remain in their homes. Loan payments are deferred and only due upon sale or transfer of the property.
“An important part of preventing homelessness in our communities is helping people stay in their homes safely,” said Lane County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky. “This program will make it possible for vulnerable residents, including the elderly and alter-abled, to maintain their home ownership, especially in our small cities and rural areas. We are incredibly fortunate to have St. Vincent de Paul here locally to help put this funding to good use.”
The CDBG grant will be able to help up to 19 homeowners in the Oakridge or Westfir area, including manufactured homes.
Eligible applicants must:
- be located within the Oakridge and Westfir areas.
- occupy and own the home to be rehabilitated.
- have household income at or below 80 percent of the federal median income.
Residents can determine their eligibility and learn more by visiting the St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County website.
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.
Eugene Police Department Collecting Hoodies For High Schoolers
Embrace the season of giving by donating hoodies to high school-aged kids! As temperatures drop, let’s wrap our community in warmth and kindness. Clean out those closets and drop off your gently used or new hoodies at our designated collection points.
For those who prefer a convenient option, consider donating gift cards that will be used to purchase hoodies. Send your gift cards to the Eugene Police Department: Community Engagement Supervisor, Cherie Nelson300 Country Club Rd. Eugene, OR 97401Your contribution will ensure teenagers stay snug and stylish this winter. Let’s come together to make a difference—one hoodie at a time!
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.
Eugene Saturday Market’s Holiday Market
The Eugene Saturday Market’s Holiday Market returned to the Lane Events Center 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.
“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
City of Eugene Winter Holiday Schedules and Closures
City of Eugene services and facilities have different schedules for the upcoming winter holiday. MORE INFO: https://www.eugene-or.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=6344
Three Die as Plane Crashes Into Power Lines Starting Brush Fire and Power Outage in Independence
Officials released more details Sunday about the deadly plane crash just outside Independence State Airport the day prior and identified the occupants of the plane.
The pilot and two passengers died when the single engine plane traveling from McMinnville to Independence crashed amidst heavy fog late Saturday afternoon according to the Independence Police Department and Polk County Fire District No. 1.
The occupants are identified as Mohammad Hussain Musawi and Mohammad Bashir Safdari, both 35 from Independence, and 29-year-old Ali Jan Ferdawsi of Salem. Musawi was the pilot, while Safdari and Ferdawsi were passengers.
The owner of the plane was not on board when it crashed around 4:55 p.m. near Hoffman Road and James Street just outside of the airport. It brought down power lines, sparked a small brush fire and knocked out power to nearly 400 homes overnight.
“I was upstairs and suddenly we heard a series of booms, loud kind of boom, boom, boom, bang and then all the power fluctuated, a little dim and then everything went out all at once,” said resident Aaron Forbes. “You could almost immediately see the fire as soon as we walked outside because the field caught on fire as soon as the plane crashed.”
High-voltage power lines had to be deenergized by the power company before the fire could be fully extinguished and emergency personnel could reach the site to investigate.
“The electricity was still popping, and you could see it every five or ten minutes. You could hear the transformers, the electrical line just lighting up the sky with blue plasma. It was pretty dangerous,” Forbes added.
Pacific Power reports that power has been restored as of Sunday afternoon.
“Our thoughts are with the families of those involved in the crash.” officials said. Police are investigating alongside the Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board. (SOURCE)
Former Oregon Youth Authority Employee Charged with Sexual Misconduct
On December 1, 2023, a Marion County Grand Jury returned a Secret Indictment charging 34-year-old Emily Echtenkamp with five counts of Custodial Sexual Misconduct in the First Degree, one count of Official Misconduct in the First Degree, and one count of Initiating a False Report. The indictment results from an Oregon State Police investigation into alleged sexual misconduct by Echtenkamp with an incarcerated individual while she was employed at MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility. The incarcerated individual was not a minor during the period alleged in the indictment.[1] As of May 2022, Echtenkamp was no longer employed by the Oregon Youth Authority.
Based on the Grand Jury Indictment, the Marion County Circuit Court issued an arrest warrant for Echtenkamp. Echtenkamp turned herself into the Marion County Jail on the warrant on December 14, 2023, and was lodged at the Marion County Jail pending arraignment on the Indictment. On December 15, 2023, Echtenkamp was arraigned on the Indictment and the Marion County District Attorney’s Office requested $60,000 bail. Marion County Circuit Court Pro Tem Judge Matthew Tracey set bail at $20,000.
This issue is an open criminal prosecution and as such, the Marion County District Attorney’s Office will not release additional information at this time. Please contact DDA Brendan Murphy and DDA Kylie Kuhns at (503) 588-5222 with any questions.
Federal Judge Rejected Request From Oregon Republican State Senators Who Boycotted The Legislature To Be Allowed On The Ballot After Their Terms End
U.S. District Court Judge Ann Aiken issued the decision Wednesday rejecting a request from Oregon Republican state senators who boycotted the Legislature to be allowed on the ballot after their terms end.
State Sens. Dennis Linthicum, Brian Boquist and Cedric Hayden were among the plaintiffs who filed the federal lawsuit to challenge their disqualification from running for reelection under Measure 113. The voter-approved constitutional amendment, which passed by a wide margin last year, bars legislators from seeking reelection after 10 or more unexcused absences.
Each of the three senators racked up more than 10 absences during a record six-week walkout that paralyzed the 2023 legislative session. The boycott stemmed from bills on abortion, transgender health care and guns.
The lawmakers sought, among other things, a preliminary injunction to prevent the secretary of state’s office from enforcing their disqualification from the ballot. The office in September disqualified Linthicum and Boquist from the 2024 ballot, court filings show. Hayden’s term ends in January 2027.
The senators argued that walkouts are a form of political protest protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
“The Senators were punished solely for exercising their First Amendment rights,” their attorneys said in court filings.
Aiken disagreed with their claims in her opinion.
“However, these walkouts were not simply protests — they were an exercise of the Senator Plaintiffs’ official power and were meant to deprive the legislature of the power to conduct business,” she wrote.
“Their subsequent disqualification is the effect of Measure 113 working as intended by the voters of Oregon,” she added.
The Oregon Senate and House of Representatives must have two-thirds of their members present in order to have a quorum and conduct business. In recent years, Republicans have protested against Democratic policies by walking out of the Legislature and denying a quorum in a bid to stall bills.
The federal suit named Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade and Democratic Senate President Rob Wagner as defendants. The senators claimed, among other things, that Wagner violated their First Amendment right to freedom of expression and their Fourteenth Amendment right to due process by marking their absences as unexcused.
Attorneys from Oregon’s justice department representing Griffin-Valade and Wagner argued the First Amendment does not protect legislators’ refusal to attend legislative floor sessions.
“Under Oregon law, a senator’s absence has an important legal effect: without the attendance of the two-thirds of senators needed to achieve a quorum, the Senate cannot legislate,” they wrote in court filings.
The federal court decision was issued one day before the Oregon Supreme Court heard a separate challenge to the measure. In oral arguments before the state’s high court in Salem Thursday, a lawyer for a different group of Republican state senators argued that confusion over the wording of the constitutional amendment means that legislators whose terms end in January can run in 2024.
Griffin-Valade, the secretary of state, is also a defendant in that lawsuit. Earlier this year, she said the boycotting senators were disqualified from seeking reelection in 2024. She directed her office’s elections division to implement an administrative rule to clarify the stance. She said the rule reflected the intent of voters when they approved the measure last year.
All parties in the suit are seeking clarity on the issue before the March 2024 filing deadline for candidates who want to run in next year’s election.
Fatal Crash — Highway 97 — Deschutes County
On Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, at approximately 7:14 p.m., Oregon State Police troopers responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97 near milepost 128 south of Redmond.
The preliminary investigation indicated that a white Ford Econoline van was northbound on Highway 97 and drove onto the shoulder of the highway for an unknown reason. The driver lost control of the vehicle and drove across both northbound lanes, the center median, and into the southbound “A” lane. The van collided with a silver 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee that was traveling southbound.
The driver of the van, Ghandi Lakshmi Satya Sai Yerramsetti (23) of Redmond, and the passenger of the Jeep, Christy Lee Bigelow (29) of Bend, both sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Jeep, Nicholas Loren Husted (32) of Bend was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
During the crash investigation, Highway 97 was closed and traffic detoured. A suspected impaired driver struck an Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) vehicle that was diverting traffic at 61st Street. The suspect, Nicholas Jason Cardone (33) of Bend, was arrested for DUII by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. The operator of the ODOT vehicle was evaluated at a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
An additional non-injury crash occurred in the southbound lane near the crash scene and Lylliane Walczyk (20) was arrested for DUII.
Oregon State Police was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Bend Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Man Arrested After Recording In Coquille High School Girls Bathroom
Police arrested a man Friday night after they said he was caught recording underage girls in a bathroom at Coquille High School.
According to the Coquille Police Department, officers responded to the school around 9:30 p.m. on December 15 for a report of a fight. They learned a man had been found in the women’s bathroom using a phone to record girls using the bathroom and changing clothes after an athletic tournament involving schools from around the south coast region.
When some of the girls noticed they were being recorded, one told her father who went to the bathroom and “forcibly detained” the man, police said. Other parents then called 911 to report the incident. Officers noticed signs of injury, but he refused to talk about them.
CPD arrested 59-year-old Patrick Laird of Coquille and initially charged him with second-degree encouraging child sex abuse and first-degree invasion of personal privacy. He was taken to the Coos County Jail where he was still in custody as of Sunday morning.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing and additional charges are possible, the department said. They are working with the Coquille School District on the investigation.
Anyone with any information about the incident, or who believe they were possibly recorded, is asked to contact Coquille Police Officer Aaron Mayo via email at amayo@cityofcoquille.org or the department by phone at 541-396-2114.
Officer Involved Shooting – Josephine County
JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. 15 Dec. 2023 – On Friday, Dec. 15, 2023, law enforcement officers from Oregon State Police, Grants Pass Police Department, and Josephine County Sheriff’s Office were searching for a suspect in a homicide investigation.
At approximately 12:10 p.m. the suspect was located in a vehicle near Grants Pass and fled from law enforcement officers who pursued the suspect. The pursuit ended at Highway 199 and Allen Creek Road.
During the course of the incident, law enforcement officers from all three agencies discharged their duty weapons. The suspect, identified as Kelly Lynn Mason (48), was pronounced deceased on scene.
At least one law enforcement officer on scene received non-life-threatening injuries during the incident.
All involved officers have been placed on traumatic event leave as is standard protocol in Senate Bill 111 deadly force incidents.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation of the incident. This team is comprised of investigators from numerous agencies and is overseen by the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office.
Per the standard protocols, all future media releases related to this incident will come from the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office.
Quaker Granola Bars and Granola Cereals Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination
Nearly 80 varieties of Quaker Oats Company‘s granola bar and granola cereal products are being recalled due to a potential salmonella contamination.
News of the recall was announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday. The products were sold throughout all 50 states in the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam and Saipan, in stores like Target, Costco, Walmart, Kroger and more.
Among the products are various flavors and variety/value packs of Quaker Chewy Bars (including the “Less Sugar” option), Quaker Big Chewy Bars, Quaker Chewy Bars Minis, Quaker Chewy Dipps and Quaker Chewy Mini Dipps.
Quaker Puffed Granola, Quaker Simply Granola Oats and Quaker Protein Granola Oats products are also affected, in their respective offerings.
Another Death Has Been Linked To Cantaloupe Contaminated With Salmonella
Another death has been linked to cantaloupe contaminated with salmonella, bringing the total to four in the United States. Another 72 illnesses also have been reported, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
So far, the CDC said, 302 people have become sick in 42 states. Of those, 72 have been added as of Dec. 15. Almost half of those people had to be hospitalized and four have died – three in Minnesota and one in Oregon.
Consumers have been urged to not eat any pre-cut cantaloupe unless they know where the whole fruit came from.
“The true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses. This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for salmonella. In addition, recent illnesses may not yet be reported as it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak,” the CDC said.
The outbreak has been linked to cantaloupe from Mexico that may have a sticker with “Malichita” or “Rudy” and the number 4050.
Recalls of whole cantaloupe and pre-cut cantaloupe have been growing.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said its “traceback investigation” has identified Sofia Produce, LLC doing business as TruFresh of Nogales, Arizona; Crown Jewels Produce of Fresno, California; and Pacific Trellis Fruit doing business as Dulcinea of Fresno, California, as suppliers of the potentially contaminated “Malichita” or “Rudy” brand cantaloupes.
The three companies issued recalls.
Adults age 65 and older, children younger than 5 and people with weakened immune systems are more at risk from a salmonella infection.
Severe symptoms include diarrhea for more than three days that is not improving, a fever higher than 102 degrees, bloody diarrhea, vomiting that includes not being able to keep liquids down and dehydration.
Mexico’s Health Department on Dec. 15 ordered the temporary closure of a melon-packing plant implicated in salmonella infections that killed five people in Canada and four in the United States.
Housing Advocates Push For More Rental Assistance as Evictions Rise
Eviction filings in Oregon continue to exceed pre-pandemic levels and could increase if lawmakers do not set aside additional funds for emergency rental assistance, according to local housing experts.
Why it matters: The state’s housing affordability crisis, coupled with rising inflation and idling housing production, has led many tenants to fall behind on rent, putting them at risk of losing their homes, Sybil Hebb, director of legislative advocacy at the Oregon Law Center, tells Axios.
- “Homelessness rates are driven by housing prices and affordability,” she says. “None of that is going to get solved overnight, but we know it’s twice as expensive to get people rehoused once they’ve lost housing.”
Driving the news: The Oregon Law Center and several other nonprofit service providers — including Fair Shot and Stable Homes for Oregon Families — are planning to ask lawmakers for an additional $45 million for eviction protection in the next legislative session, which begins in February.
- The groups originally asked for $100 million during the last session, but only $55 million out of Gov. Tina Kotek’s $2.5 billion budget for Oregon Housing and Community Services was allocated for rental assistance and eviction protections for the next two years.
Advocates say those funds have all but dried up within the last few months.
- “We have put those resources to good use, but it is rapidly going out the door,” Hebb says. “We know we are not going to make it with the currently allocated resources.”
- Lauren Everett, a spokesperson for Portland Tenants United, says she hasn’t “heard of there being any rent assistance still available.”
By the numbers: Prior to the pandemic, in 2019 and early 2020, Oregon landlords filed an average of 1,500 eviction lawsuits a month, according to state data collected by Evicted in Oregon, an eviction tracking project from Portland State University.
- From October 2022 to October 2023, an average of 2,000 eviction lawsuits were filed each month — 82% of those cases were for nonpayment, Emily Rena-Dozier, an attorney at the Oregon Law Center, tells Axios.
State of play: In March, a new law requiring landlords to wait 10 days (instead of the previous 72-hour requirement) before filing non-payment eviction cases has resulted in more dismissals in part because tenants now have more time to find rental and legal assistance, Rena-Dozier said.
- “The dismissal rates that we’re seeing, where basically half of the non payment cases get dismissed and the tenants hold on to their housing, is only possible because of rent assistance,” she said.
Of note: In May, Multnomah County voters overwhelmingly rejected a local capital gains tax that would’ve supported tenants facing eviction with legal aid. (SOURCE)
Measure 110 unveils new phone access line providing more immediate connection to services and support
SALEM, Ore. — People seeking Measure 110 services and supports can now access a newly invigorated helpline to connect individuals more efficiently with treatment, housing, and overdose prevention providers within the statewide behavioral health resource networks (BHRNs).
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) announced that Health Resources in Action (HRiA), a non-profit organization based in Boston, was selected as the new contractor for the helpline, replacing Lines for Life.
The firm has extensive experience working with federal and state government agencies such as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the federal Department of Health and Human Services. HRiA operates helplines in three other states: Massachusetts, Illinois, and Vermont.
The 18-month contract totals more than $2.8 million. The firm is planning to undertake extensive statewide outreach and add new functionalities to the hotline such as texting.
This helpline will continue to be a statewide public resource for substance use screening and service referrals as well as a resource for those seeking to waive Class E citations.
Under its proposal, HRiA will operate the phone and text helpline, develop a comprehensive website to support the helpline, offer follow-up calls to support service access, and promote the hotline.
The new helpline number is 1-833-975-0505.The previous helpline phone numbers, 503-575-3769 and 541-575-3769, will continue to operate and will feed into the new 833 number.
Since 2021, 577 people called the helpline. Nearly half of them had citations.
“We’re excited to partner with HRiA to refresh the Measure 110 helpline,” said OHA Behavioral Health Director Ebony Clarke. “We know the helpline has been vastly underutilized and we’re optimistic that HRiA’s trauma-informed and compassionate approach to supporting individuals in need of help will make it easier for Oregonians to access Measure 110’s life-saving services and supports.”
Measure 110 network providers reported continued increases in the number of clients served statewide in all seven network service areas, according to the latest quarterly program reports filed with OHA.
Overdose prevention and peer support services accounted for the largest client gains in the quarterly reporting and over all three quarters. Substance use treatment providers reported 41 percent more clients in quarterly gains and 104 percent over the first three quarters in operation.
Background: In November 2020, Oregon voters passed Measure 110, the Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act of 2020, which became effective Dec. 4, 2020, to better serve people actively using substances or diagnosed with a substance use disorder. In July 2021, the legislature passed SB 755, which amended the act and made it more feasible to implement.
People who provide drug treatment and recovery services and advocates for criminal justice reform wrote Measure 110 in response to the high rate of drug addiction and overdoses in Oregon, and the disproportionate impact of those outcomes on Oregon’s communities of color.
Their goal was to establish a more equitable health-based and effective approach to substance use disorder.
People in Oregon can now manage state benefits with the Oregon ONE Mobile app
People can now securely manage their medical, food, cash and child care benefits through the State of Oregon from the convenience of their mobile devices using the new Oregon ONE Mobile app. People first will need to apply for benefits online, in person at a local office or over the phone.
The app is available for free in the Apple and Android app stores. It is an official State of Oregon app created by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). The app’s development was partially funded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
“At ODHS we are committed to meeting people in Oregon where they are with as many ways as possible to manage their benefits, check application status and share needed documentation, like when they get a request for information during a renewal,” said Nathan Singer (he/him), director of the ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership. “People can now manage their benefits in-person, by mail, by fax, by telephone, online and on their mobile phone using the Oregon ONE Mobile app, which is available in English and Spanish.”
Interview with OEP Director Singer available on YouTube
Oregon ONE Mobile app video on YouTube
New Oregon ONE Mobile app video link
- Create a ONE Online account.
- Access their existing ONE Online account.
- Report changes to household information including address, contact information and income.
- Upload requested documents using a smartphone camera.
- Get updates on application status and check if it is approved, denied, or pending, and what actions might need to be taken.
- See and download notices that were mailed.
- Find the next renewal date for their benefits.
- Get important, time-sensitive alerts and notifications about benefits on mobile devices.
- View benefit issuance history for food and cash payments.
People who serve as Authorized Representatives for people with benefits are also able to use the app.
How to manage your medical, food, cash and child care benefits:
- By phone at: 1-800-699-9075. All relay calls accepted.
- Online at: benefits.oregon.gov
- Through the free Oregon ONE Mobile app available on Apple and Android app stores
- In person at an office near you: Find an office.
- 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 food resources in your community: needfood.oregon.gov.
- 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 Oregon Department of Human Services – The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve well-being and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.
About the Oregon Eligibility Partnership – The Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is part of the Oregon Department of Human Services. OEP supports state staff who determine eligibility for people applying for and receiving medical, food, cash and child care benefits. It also manages the ONE Eligibility System used to process applications and deliver benefits to eligible individuals and families in Oregon. One in three people in Oregon receive benefits through the ONE Eligibility System. OEP administers the ONE Eligibility system in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC).###
OHA launches winter campaign to encourage conversations about alcohol
Rethink the Drink urges communities to talk about alcohol, offers tips for supporting others during holiday season
At a time when many people in Oregon are celebrating the holiday season with friends, coworkers, and loved ones, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is launching Rethink the Drink’s new winter advertising campaign to change the conversation about alcohol.
The campaign emphasizes the need for people to come together and support one another to be healthy and care for communities. That includes creating healthy environments that support people in their efforts to drink less alcohol. The campaign reveals how common alcohol has become in community settings and asks people to consider ways they can best support their friends and loved ones – and their entire community – to be healthy.
Rethink the Drink, informed by significant community and partner engagement, aims to decrease alcohol consumption and related harms in Oregon. Elements of this winter campaign include a website; statewide TV, radio, digital and print advertisements; and Facebook and Instagram pages. Oregon is the only state in the country to initiate a public health campaign of this scale to reach adults 21 and older.
Note: If you or someone you care about is suffering from alcohol dependence or an alcohol use disorder, free confidential resources and support are available online or by calling or 1-800-923-435.
Demand for food aid spikes in past year as many Oregonians struggle with hunger
After the pandemic ended, the demand for food continued to increase in Oregon, with the need for millions more pounds of produce, pasta and other staples at meal sites and food pantries.
Before the pandemic, about 860,000 people annually visited the food bank’s partners in Oregon and southwest Washington, said Morgan Dewey, a spokesperson for the nonprofit food bank. This year, the food bank is on track to serve more than 1 million people, Dewey said.
“We’re just continuing to try to keep up with how much food folks are needing on the ground,” Dewey said.
Get help — The Oregon Food Bank, state agencies and other organizations, including pantries and churches, provide food for hungry Oregonians. For help:
- Go to needfood.oregon.gov
- Find a food pantry at foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
- For seniors and those with disabilities, call 855-673-2372 or go to www.adrcoforegon.org
- Dial 211, or text your Zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
- For local resources, go to www.caporegon.org/find-services/
The needs have increased as extra pandemic-related food benefits from the government have stopped. During the pandemic, most families received 70% more in their monthly allotment of federal food aid, called the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, or SNAP. The extra aid ended in March, with the average household allotment falling from $450 a month to about $300. The state also paid out the last of the pandemic-related extra food benefits for low-income families with young children in October.
The food bank has five warehouses throughout the state that deliver to 21 regional food banks and more than 1,400 other points, including meal sites, delivery programs and pantries. Those sites are critical for rural and frontier areas in Oregon with food insecurity that are not near a large regional pantry, Dewey said.
The operation puts out fresh produce and dairy products, with an eye toward offering nutritional food that aligns with the cultural and ethnic backgrounds of Oregonians. For the long-term, it’s important to look for ways to address the economic circumstances driving hunger, Dewey said. Those can include unaffordable housing and a lack of access to health care.
“We can serve everyone who is standing in line for a meal or standing in line to get a grocery bag full of food,” Dewey said. “We can serve all those people today, but hunger still won’t go away tomorrow.” (SOURCE)
OHCS announces Homeowner Assistance Fund application portal to close on December 20
SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is closing the Oregon Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) program to most new applicants to avoid overcommitting funds. The application portal will close at noon PST Dec. 20. Homeowners who are in active foreclosure may still be able to apply through a housing counselor.
“We’re encouraging homeowners who are at imminent risk of housing displacement, socially disadvantaged individuals as defined by U.S. Treasury, or anyone who meets one of the additional eligibility criteria listed on the HAF website to apply for HAF assistance before noon Dec. 20,” said Ryan Vanden Brink, assistant director of Homeowner Assistance Programs. “Although we are accepting new applications, there may not be enough funds for everyone who applies as the program winds down.”
Existing applicants can continue to log on to the HAF portal to check the status of their application or scheduled payments.
OHCS planned its HAF program to operate as a safety net for the most at-risk homeowners who have no viable workout option, so those homeowners will receive priority processing. If funds still remain after the portal closes and applications are processed, HAF intake partners will be able to submit new applications on behalf of homeowners in a judicial foreclosure action or in nonjudicial foreclosure with a scheduled sale date. These applicants may need to complete intake paperwork and foreclosure prevention counseling before working with a counselor. Funding may not be available for all these new applications.
In addition to Oregon’s foreclosure moratorium and increased mortgage forbearance and default workout options, HAF has helped Oregon maintain a historically low foreclosure rate during and since the COVID-19 pandemic, keeping many in their homes. According to August 2023 Corelogic data, there were 1,016 residential foreclosures in Oregon, which reflects a 0.16% foreclosure rate, compared to a 20-year average 1.03% foreclosure rate.
As of Dec. 4, OHCS has approved 1,745 applications, totaling about $46.9 million of the $72 million available to homeowners when the program launched. Over $35 million in approved funds have already been paid with an average award of about $27,000. OHCS is reviewing or monitoring another 859 applications that, if approved, are projected to total $23.2 million in assistance. The agency projects $1.9 million remains. OHCS is currently working with homeowners, housing counselors, and mortgage servicers to postpone and prevent hundreds of foreclosures for applicants. Visit the HAF Dashboard for more detailed information.
Free help is available – Homeowners who have fallen behind or are at risk of missing a payment on their mortgage can continue to get free help from certified housing counselors around the state to learn about options to keep their homes, such as modifications or adding deferred payments to the end of a mortgage. Housing counselors are knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated professionals who can help homeowners communicate with their mortgage servicers.
Search the full list of free certified housing counselors by county. Homeowners should be aware that some housing counseling agencies take longer due to high volume and remote working policies.
In addition to connecting with a certified housing counselor, Oregon homeowners should directly contact their mortgage servicers and lenders to see what types of mortgage assistance and foreclosure prevention programs are available. Homeowners who communicate with their lenders and servicers have some additional protections and usually have more time to figure out their options.
Avoiding fraud – The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services recommends being extremely cautious with offers to help from unauthorized companies or people. Homeowners are urged not to provide financial or personal information unless they verify the company or person’s licensing status. It does not cost anything to apply for the HAF program or meet with an Oregon housing counselor.
There are several common warning signs homeowners should watch out for that may indicate a scam. If a homeowner suspects they’re being contacted by a scammer, they can report it to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Oregon Department of Justice, or the U.S. Treasury’s Office of the Inspector General.
To verify a lender’s license, visit the Division of Financial Regulation’s license page and compare it with the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) license number. This number must be included on all advertising materials and should be easy to find. To verify a housing counseling agency’s status with the state, make sure they are listed on the OHCS website.
Winter Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon Coast Dec. 27-31
OREGON COAST, Oregon—Oregon State Parks will once again host Winter Whale Watch Week at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast Wednesday, Dec. 27 to Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023.
Every year thousands of gray whales migrate south through Oregon’s waters at the end of December, and state parks invites visitors to the coast to see their journey.
Trained volunteers will be stationed at 15 sites to help visitors spot whales, share information and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. Volunteer opportunities are still available along the north and south coast if you register by Dec. 11 at https://orwhalewatch.org/volunteer/
The Whale Watch Week sites are some of the best places to spot whales on the Oregon Coast.
“We are excitedly waiting for the migration of the gray whales to come down from Alaska,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride. “We really enjoy sharing the experience with visitors,” he said, “It’s been a tradition at Oregon State Parks for more than 40 years.”
A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online on the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching
An estimated 14,500 gray whales swam past Oregon’s shores last winter, according to the most recent population estimates from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The journey is part of their annual migration south to the calving lagoons near Baja, Mexico, and the end of December is the peak time to see their migration south.
The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about whales.
All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and keeping an eye on the surf at all times. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.
For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.
Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch23.
Umpqua Bank Launches Warm Hearts Winter Drive, Mobilizes Associates across Oregon to Support Neighbors in Need
Local residents can help support nearly 30 Aide Organizations across Oregon this holiday season
― Umpqua Bank announced the launch of its Warm Hearts Winter Drive, an associate-driven campaign to support individuals and families who struggle with access to housing and other basic resources. As part of the drive, associates and local branches in Oregon will help mobilize their respective communities to raise money and collect winter clothing for 28 shelters and aide organizations serving Oregonians experiencing homelessness.
Umpqua’s Warm Hearts Winter drive continues a community-impact commitment of the former Columbia Bank, which merged with Umpqua earlier this year. The campaign was started in 2015 as a way for bank associates to partner with customers and members of their community to raise funds and other resources for local shelters and nonprofits providing support for families without a home. More than $2 million in contributions has been raised since its inception. This year’s drive expands to support more than 100 organizations in communities across the combined bank’s footprint in Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada and Utah.
“As a newly combined bank, Umpqua is committed to mobilizing our greater resources and the collective power and passion of our associates to make a difference in our local communities,” said Umpqua Bank Chief Marketing Officer David Moore Devine. “Access to adequate shelter and clothing continues to be a major challenge for many of our neighbors, and our Warm Hearts campaign empowers associates, along with members of our communities, to support local families in need. Simply donating a few dollars, a new coat or other quality clothing items can help ensure that more of our neighbors are cared for in the months ahead.”
How to Support the Warm Hearts Winter Drive — The Warm Hearts Winter Drive accepts cash donations in addition to new winter clothes. Contributions can be made at www.WarmHeartsWinterDrive.com. Financial contributions and new clothing items can also be donated at local Umpqua Bank branches.
Associates and local branches across Umpqua’s footprint are actively engaged in securing financial contributions and warm clothing from customers and community members. One hundred percent of the clothing and funds collected will be donated directly to local shelters and aide organizations.
All designated contributions stay in the community where they were raised and directly support local organizations.
Participating Organizations in Oregon:
| Bethlehem Inn | Bend |
| The Shepherd’s House | Bend |
| Oregon Coast Community Action | Coos Bay |
| Community Outreach, Inc. | Corvallis |
| Eugene Mission | Eugene |
| St. Vincent De Paul Lane County | Eugene |
| My Father’s House: A Community Shelter | Gresham |
| Martha’s House of Hermiston | Hermiston |
| Community Action Hillsboro Family Shelter | Hillsboro |
| Gorge Ecumenical Ministries | Hood River |
| Klamath & Lake Community Action Services | Klamath Falls |
| Community Connection of Northeast Oregon, Inc. | La Grande |
| Union County Shelter from the Storm | La Grande |
| Family Promise of Lincoln County | Lincoln City |
| Society of St. Vincent De Paul, Rogue Valley | Medford |
| Northwest Housing Alternatives | Milwaukie |
| LOVE, Inc. | Newberg/Yamhill County Gospel Mission | Newberg |
| Grace Wins Haven | Newport |
| Samaritan House, Inc. | Newport |
| Community in Action | Ontario |
| Neighbor to Neighbor Pendelton (N2N) | Pendleton |
| Portland Rescue Mission | Portland |
| United Community Action Network Douglas & Josephine Counties | Roseburg |
| Catholic Community Services of the Mid-Willamette Valley | Salem |
| Union Gospel Mission of Salem | Salem |
| Helping Hands Reentry Outreach Center | Seaside |
| St. Vincent De Paul: Warming Place | The Dalles |
| Tillamook County Community Action Resource Enterprises, Inc. | Tillamook |
For more information on the list of benefiting organizations in each county, or to make a cash or new clothing donation, please visit WarmHeartsWinterDrive.com. Those interested in supporting the Warm Hearts campaign may also email community@umpquabank.com for more information.
About Umpqua Bank
Umpqua Bank is a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System Inc., (Nasdaq: COLB) and a premier regional bank in the western U.S., with offices in Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Colorado. With over $50 billion of assets, Umpqua combines the resources, sophistication and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver personalized service at scale. The bank consistently ranks as one of America’s Best Banks (ranked by Forbes) and supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking; Small Business Administration lending; institutional and corporate banking; equipment leasing; and wealth management. The bank’s corporate headquarters are located in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Learn more at umpquabank.com.
AAA Reports Lower Holiday Gas Prices
Gas prices continue their downward movement in all 50 states as the holidays approach. Most gas stations in Oregon are now selling regular gas for less than $4 a gallon, and nationwide, about 60% of all fuel locations have gas below $3 a gallon. Lower crude oil costs and the typical lower demand for gas this time of year are the driving factors behind lower pump prices. For the week, the national average for regular drops nine cents to $3.14 a gallon. The Oregon average falls eight cents to $3.91.
“Drivers are enjoying lower pump prices in time for holiday shopping and travel. Gas prices should continue to decline this month, as holiday travelers hit the road for Christmas and New Year’s,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.
The national average is at its lowest price since December 2022. The Oregon average is at its lowest price since last March.
The national average for regular has been steadily falling since reaching its year-to-date high of $3.88 on September 18. The Oregon average has been moving lower since reaching its year-to-date high of $4.77 on August 30.
AAA projects 2023 to be the second-busiest for holiday travel since 2000 when AAA began tracking holiday travel, only behind 2019. AAA projects 115.2 million Americans (33.8% of the population) will travel 50 miles or more for the Christmas and New Year holidays. This is up 2.2% from 2022. About 1.63 million Oregonians will pack their sleighs for a holiday trip. Find all the details and tips for travelers in the AAA holiday travel news release.
Get $5 off annual Oregon State Park parking permit in December
Give the gift of the outdoors and save this season with the Oregon State Parks 12-month parking permit sale during the month of December.
The permit hangtag once again features whimsical designs from Portland artist El Tran. Holiday shoppers can buy the annual parking permits for only $25, which is a $5 savings starting Dec. 1 and running through Dec. 31. The permit is good for 12 months starting in the month of purchase.
Purchasing permits is easy. Buy them online at the Oregon State Parks store (use the drop down menu to pick your favorite design). Parking permits are also sold at some state park friends’ group stores and select local businesses throughout the state. For a complete list of vendors, visit stateparks.oregon.gov.
Parking costs $5 a day at 25 Oregon state parks unless you have a 12- or 24-month parking permit or a same-day camping receipt. The 24-month pass is $50 and is also available at store.oregonstateparks.org. The permits are transferable from vehicle to vehicle.
Guided First Day Hikes set for January 1st in Oregon State Parks
Guided First Day Hikes led by rangers and volunteers are set for 31 Oregon State Parks on New Year’s Day—Monday, Jan. 1. Hikes are free and the $5 day-use parking fee is waived that day for all state parks that require a parking permit and are open.
America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.
“I’m excited that we can offer 34 guided hikes in 31 state parks this year,” said Lisa Sumption, director of OPRD. “When more parks offer hikes, Oregonians have more options to hike near their homes or explore a new park and trail. Plus, this year we’re including more trail accessibility information in our online hike descriptions and are offering reasonable accommodations so visitors of all abilities can join us.”
Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration.
Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.
Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikesor tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.
About America’s State Parks
America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With more than 9,817 park areas covering over 20 million acres of land, and visitation of nearly 9 million people annually, state parks are an integral part of protecting natural and cultural resources while providing guests amazing access to the outdoors. Learn more at stateparks.org.
Visitors can book same-day online reservations statewide starting in 2024
SALEM, Ore— Visitors hoping to camp last minute will soon have the chance to view and book same-day campsite openings online statewide starting Jan. 1, 2024.
Previously, most sites required booking 24 hours or more in advance of arrival when reserving online. Same-day online reservations started as a pilot project at two coastal parks and expanded last summer to all 17 coastal state park campgrounds.
“Same-day reservations at the coast gave those traveling the peace of mind that there was a place ready for them when they arrived,” said Coastal Region Director Dennis Comfort.
When the program expands statewide, it will include a total of 40 park campgrounds across Oregon. Some parks switch tent and RV campsites to first-come-first served during the winter and those sites will start offering same-day online reservations in the spring. Visitors can check park webpages for seasonal information on specific parks at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/
Eleven campgrounds will remain first-come-first served year-round: Jackson F. Kimball, Goose Lake, Bates, Cascara, Catherine Creek, Hilgard Junction, Jasper Point (except for the cabin), Minam, Red Bridge, Smith Rock and Ukiah-Dale.
The goal of same-day online reservations is to offer campers the flexibility to travel last minute when sites are available while giving them the security of knowing they have a site when they arrive. Same-day online reservations also have the potential to give park staff more time to offer interpretive opportunities, improve park facilities and increase time interacting with visitors.
“The transition to same-day reservations at Nehalem Bay State Park was nearly seamless and has been generally well received by guests,” said Park Manager Ben Cox.
Starting Jan. 1, 2024:
- Tent and RV campers can make a same-day online reservation up until 11:59 p.m. on the day they arrive by visiting https://oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com. Yurt and cabin reservations must be made before 6 p.m. the day of arrival due to the staffing required to assist with keys or codes.
- All visitors can make reservations by calling (800) 452-5687 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Visitors can also make same-day online reservations at parks statewide using mobile devices where they have cell reception or where Oregon State Parks’ free, limited Wi-Fi is available. Wi-Fi is provided at most parks for reservations only and is not guaranteed to be available 24/7. Signs at the park have login information. Since internet connectivity varies by park, it’s best to reserve campsites before arrival.
- Visitors can still pay with cash or checks at the park by finding a ranger or following posted instructions, which could include using self-registration envelopes only if instructed to do so. Ranger availability is limited depending on time and location.
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will waive the $8 reservation fee for all same-day reservations.
If you have any questions about the new option, please contact the information center at k.info@oregon.gov“>park.info@oregon.gov. For more information about the option, please visit our online FAQs.
LCSO Case #23-6360 — Missing Person from Eugene
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office and Eugene Police Department are looking for 63-year-old Joseph James Bucher. Bucher’s vehicle was located by an Oregon State Police Trooper on 12/04/23 in a wooded area near USFS Rd. 5824 off of Hwy. 58 between Westfir and Lowell. He had not been heard from by family since 11/30/23.
Bucher is described as a white male adult standing approximately 5’11” and weighing about 250lbs. He has gray hair and blue eyes. He is also believed to currently have a beard.
Anyone with information about Bucher’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150 opt. 1. or Eugene Police Department at 541-682-5111.
Missing child alert — Jerrica Landin is still missing and is believed to be in danger
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Jerrica Landin, age 17, a child in foster care who went missing from Portland, Oregon on Aug. 21. She is believed to be in danger.
ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Jerrica and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see her.
Jerrica may be in Portland or Eugene in Oregon. She may also be in Washington in Vancouver, Seattle or the Tri Cities.
Name: Jerrica Landin
Pronouns: She/her
Date of birth: Oct. 24, 2006
Height: 5-foot-6
Weight: 130 pounds
Hair: Reddish brown
Eye color: Brown
Other identifying information: Jerrica has a tattoo of a heart on her neck below her right ear. She often dyes her hair red, pink and purple.
Portland Police Bureau Case #23-803125
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #1489518
Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.
Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.
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.
