The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Friday, December 22, 2023
Willamette Valley Weather
Local Police and County Sheriff’s to Conduct DUII High Visibility Enforcement Through New Year’s Day
Police in Eugene and Springfield are putting more patrol cars out to discourage drunk driving over the holidays.
• The Eugene Police Department has received the Oregon Impact DUII High Visibility Enforcement Overtime grant.
• The Springfield Police Department is also partnering with state agencies to increase enforcement efforts to deter people from drunk driving and prevent related injuries. The department was using a grant from the Department of Transportation help fund the effort.
• A DUII saturation patrol was started 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.
https://www.facebook.com/reel/902916561276968
Two Arrested After Incident at Coburg Road McDonalds
At 10:21 a.m. on December 17, Eugene Police Patrol units were dispatched to McDonalds at 1580 Coburg Road after a call about a disorderly woman with a knife. A woman, known to employees from prior issues, Tara Rochelle Hass Roberts, age 29, of Eugene, came through the drive through in a vehicle driven by another woman, and then came inside with a knife and began arguing with employees about an order.
Hass Roberts attempted to rob food from the business while menacing employees with the knife. She attempted to open the cash register before stabbing it with the knife. She fled in the car and an officer located the vehicle at a nearby apartment complex.
Eugene Police Property Crimes Unit detectives were dispatched and responded. Hass Roberts left the location in the vehicle and units performed a successful stop and detained her and the other woman. Hass Roberts was taken to Lane County Jail on charges of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, and Menacing.
The other woman, Megan Lynn Roberts, age 28, of Eugene, was also arrested and lodged at Lane County Jail on a charge of Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree, as she had previously been trespassed from the store. Case 23-18916
Missing Lane County Man Found Deceased In Creek Bed Near Oakridge
UPDATE LCSO Case #23-6360 — Missing Person from Eugene
Lane County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue personnel located the deceased body of 63-year-old Joseph James Bucher on Saturday (12/16/23) in a creek bed off of USFS Rd. 120. Bucher had not been heard from by family since 11/30/23. While investigation into the cause of his death remains ongoing, investigators at the scene did not discover evidence of foul play.
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank Linn County Sheriff Search and Rescue for their assistance in this case.
—-original release:
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.
23-6642 — Wanted Subject Taken into Custody After Attempting to Elude Deputies
47-year-old Timothy Wayne Emra is in custody Wednesday afternoon after attempting to flee from Lane County Sheriff’s deputies. Emra, wanted out of the Lane County Circuit Court for multiple prior offenses, was spotted by deputies in the River Road area driving a silver Dodge Avenger.
As deputies attempted a traffic stop, Emra began driving recklessly and running stop signs. Deputies discontinued pursuit when Emra turned onto Beltline Hwy. going the wrong direction. Emra then turned his vehicle around and began driving westbound on Beltline Hwy. in the westbound lanes at which time deputies re-engaged in the pursuit.
Emra took the Barger exit and rear-ended a vehicle that had been at the traffic signal. He fled that crash scene and tried to merge back onto Beltline Hwy. westbound at which time an LCSO Sergeant was able to use his patrol vehicle to forcibly stop Emra’s vehicle. Emra was then taken into custody.
Emra will be lodged at the Lane County Jail on the outstanding warrant and new charges of Elude by Vehicle, Hit and Run, Reckless Driving, and Reckless Endangering.
No one was reported to have been seriously injured in this incident.
The Early Childhood Hub Of Lane County Has Parenting Education Grant Funding Available
Local nonprofits interested in developing parenting education as well as parenting support programming can now apply for up to $10,000 in grant funding through the Early Childhood Hub of Lane County, the organization said.
According to the organization, which services as Lane County’s parenting education hub, numerous studies show that the benefits of parenting education include reduced risk of child abuse and neglect by encouraging positive parenting practices. Applications are due by January 12, 2024, and funds will be dispersed on July 1, 2024, officials said.
Funds can be used for all programming that offers parenting education and support programs for parents of children from birth through age 17, the Early Childhood Hub of Lane County organization said. Early Childhood Hub officials said that groups that are intentionally inclusive to a wide variety of families, caregivers, and parents, which include communities of color, families for whom English is not their home language, families with LGBTQIA+ members, and more.
The Early Childhood Hub of Lane County said they serve as the distributor of the funding that’s provided by the Oregon Parenting Education Collaborative, Oregon State University, The Department of Early Learning and Care, Oregon Department of Human Services and Lane County Public Health.
More information about the funding is available here: https://www.earlychildhoodlane.org/partners-funders/#funding
Sacred Heart at RiverBend to continue psychiatric and urgent Care in Eugene
OHA grants PeaceHealth waiver after Sacred Heart University District closure
— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has approved three satellite licenses and associated hospital licensing waivers that allow PeaceHealth to maintain psychiatric care and other services in Eugene, following the closure of the health system’s Sacred Heart Medical Center, University District.
OHA’s Health Care Regulation and Quality Improvement Section (HCRQI) granted PeaceHealth waiver requests last week. The new satellite licenses allow PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend in Springfield to operate off-campus satellite sites at the University District facility and another location. These services were previously covered under the University District license.
The Eugene satellites will include an inpatient and outpatient behavioral health unit; physical, occupational and speech therapy services; and a senior health and wellness center.
“Granting these waiver requests was a critical step toward quickly ensuring continuity of important health care services in Eugene, including behavioral health, as PeaceHealth made a business decision to close services at Sacred Heart, University District hospital,” said OHA Interim Director Dave Baden.
A separate approval allows PeaceHealth to open an acute rehabilitation unit within its RiverBend hospital to replace the University District hospital’s inpatient rehabilitation facility. Separately, PeaceHealth and Lifepoint Rehabilitation have received a proposed approval for a Certificate of Need to build a freestanding inpatient rehabilitation facility by 2026.
Licensure for RiverBend’s behavioral health unit satellite was based on a waiver with strict conditions requiring PeaceHealth to:
- Apply for renewal of the waiver after one year. The waiver expires Dec. 14, 2024.
- Immediately report to HCRQI – within 24 hours of occurrence – any adverse events resulting in death or serious harm to satellite inpatients and patients presenting to the behavioral health unit.
- In its waiver renewal application, include previous year’s data on walk-in and EMS-transported patients, such as demographics; transport type; transfer type, location and reason; results of examinations; treatments; and final diagnosis.
- In its waiver renewal application, include an analysis of the population served by the hospital to determine whether the waiver justification and proposed alternatives continue to adequately address patient care needs.
In August, PeaceHealth announced plans to close its Sacred Heart, University District hospital (SHUD) facility and emergency department, and relocate its rehabilitation unit to Sacred Heart at RiverBend in Springfield. State officials were concerned that this closure would impact the availability of mental health treatment beds, and could lead to full closure of all behavioral health services in Eugene.
Gov. Tina Kotek directed OHA to take actions to preserve behavioral health capacity for the community and secure additional resources to support community care upon news of PeaceHealth’s decision to close Sacred Heart, University District’s services. In addition to preserving behavioral health capacity through these licenses, PeaceHealth has committed to operating an expanded-hours urgent care for no less than nine months, with patient navigator and mental health professional on-site.
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.
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.
Eugene Saturday Market’s Holiday Market
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
Did you know that 211 has a whole section on holiday needs? You can find info on everything from holiday gifts and toys to meals and more. Check out 211info.org/get-help/basic-needs/.
Reports Shows Oregon Has 2nd Highest Rate Of Homeless Families In The Country
Oregon has the second highest rate of homelessness in the nation, trailing only California, according to a new federal count of homeless individuals in 2023.
And Oregon has the highest rate of families with children and unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness of any state. The lack of affordable housing is a significant factor.
The new count found there are 48 unhoused Oregonians for every 10,000 people in the state – or 20,142 unhoused people total. Experts agree the numbers are likely an undercount. The phenomenon is not new, but it is quickly getting worse. The state’s homeless population increased 15% since 2007, with a 23% increase in total population during the pandemic years from 2020 to 2022.
Jimmy Jones, director of housing and homelessness nonprofit, Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action, said he does not believe Oregon has reached the worst of it yet.
“This is almost all economic,” Jones said. “Despite all resources we’ve been investing, this is not the peak. All of those people in 2021 who gave up their homes during the pandemic and moved into their cars and RVs, they haven’t started showing up on the streets yet. It is hard to count those folks during the point-in-time count. That wave has not yet reached us.”
National counts are conducted during a single night in January each year. Across the country, the total number of people experiencing homelessness increased 12% between 2022 and 2023 to 653,104 people. But states in the West reported the highest percentages of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness.
In Oregon, 65% of those who were homeless were living on the street, in their cars or another unsheltered place. The others were in shelters.
The rate of homeless families with children is 9 per 10,000 residents. The next highest state is Idaho at 4 per 10,000 residents.
Since 2020, the total number of unhoused people in families in Oregon increased 27% to 3,900. Of the total, nearly 60% were without safe shelter. While Oregon and Washington each have large populations of families without stable homes, Oregon had a much higher percentage of unsheltered families.
States with the highest rates of families with children experiencing homelessness:
- Oregon: 3,900 total people in unhoused families with 58.7% unsheltered
- Idaho: 818 with 43.8% unsheltered
- Arkansas: 496 with 28.2% unsheltered
- Washington: 7,136 with 26.4% unsheltered
- California: 25,483 with 23.5% unsheltered
Compared to the rest of the country, the Portland and Gresham area and the Eugene and Springfield area both have some of the highest percentage of unsheltered families out of their total unhoused populations. Both report that nearly 75% of their unhoused families are unsheltered.
Oregon did not have as large an increase in family homelessness, as New York, Massachusetts and Colorado did, but that is because Oregon’s numbers have been consistently high over the years. Between 2022 and 2023, the number of unhoused families in Oregon rose 16%.
Since the federal government began requiring data collection, “Oregon has frequently reported the highest rate of unsheltered family homelessness in the nation and almost six in ten families experiencing homelessness did so outdoors in 2023,” the report noted. (SOURCE)
Oregon’s Nonfarm Payroll Employment Drops by 7,300 in November
In November, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment declined by 7,300 jobs, following a revised loss of 4,300 jobs in October. November’s losses were largest in professional and business services (-2,900 jobs); construction (-1,700); leisure and hospitality (-1,500); financial activities (-1,300); and information (-1,000). The only industry growing substantially in November was health care and social assistance, which added 2,400 jobs.
Professional and business services expanded slower than overall employment over the past 12 months, adding 3,000 jobs, or 1.1%, compared with growth of 39,600 jobs, or 2.0%, for total nonfarm payroll employment. While most of the industry grew over this period, employment services trended downward, cutting 3,500 jobs, or 7.7%, since November 2022.
Construction rose rapidly during most of the past two years. November’s drop of 1,700 jobs was preceded by big gains totaling 5,700 jobs during January through October.
Although leisure and hospitality gained 6,800 jobs, or 3.4%, in the past 12 months, the industry showed recent weakness by cutting 2,900 jobs between August and November.
Government added 500 jobs in November and was up 10,200 jobs, or 3.4%, in the past 12 months. It has consistently expanded over the past three years. In November, local government reached a record high of 234,200 jobs, adding 6,900 jobs in the past 12 months.
Health care and social assistance grew the fastest of the major industries over the past 12 months, adding 17,900 jobs, or 6.5%. Gains during that time were led by social assistance and nursing and residential care facilities, which each grew by close to 8.5%.
Oregon’s unemployment rate was 3.6% in both October and November. November was the seventh consecutive month in which Oregon’s unemployment rate was between 3.4% and 3.7%. The U.S. unemployment rate was 3.9% in October and 3.7% in November.
###Next Press Releases The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the November county and metropolitan area unemployment rates on Wednesday, Dec. 27, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for December on Thursday, Jan. 18.
OHA statement on Secretary of State’s Measure 110 Audit Update
(Salem, OR – December 20, 2023) Oregon Health Authority Behavioral Health Director Ebony Clarke issued the following statement in response to the Secretary of State’s Measure 110 audit update, “Funding and Delivery of Measure 110 Substance Use Disorder Services Shows Progress, but Significant Risks Remain.”
State health officials appreciate the Secretary of State’s recognition of the progress that has been made in the implementation of Measure 110. As the audit shows, the services Measure 110 funds play a vital role in expanding access to care in Oregon and putting more people who have substance use disorders on the road to recovery and sustaining healthier lives.
We agree with each of the audit’s recommendations. OHA staff are committed to presenting the legislature with a plan to report Measure 110 outcome metrics, better report on staffing in Measure 110 funded programs (including youth programs and culturally relevant services), improve the consistency of data collection, identify gaps in care and barriers to service in each county, and continue to improve the Measure 110 grantmaking process.
We appreciate the work of all the Oregonians supporting individuals reduce risks, find treatment and stay in recovery every day. We know many people would not have the opportunity to receive the lifesaving and life-changing services without the funding that Measure 110 provides.
A copy of the SOS Audit Report and Oregon Health Authority’s full management response to the audit can be found here.
Court rules Oregon’s landmark climate change regulations invalid in case brought by gas utilities
The Oregon Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday that a procedural error in approving the Climate Protection Program invalidates the regulations
Oregon’s second highest court ruled in favor of natural gas utilities seeking to invalidate the state’s landmark climate program.
The state’s Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday that the three-year-old Climate Protection Program is invalid on a technicality. Judges James Egan and Jacqueline Kamins said that the state’s Environmental Quality Commission did not fully comply with disclosure requirements in 2021 when it voted to create emissions rules that exceed federal rules and affect entities holding industrial air pollution permits under the federal Clean Air Act.
“As a result, we conclude that the CPP rules are invalid,” the judges wrote in a 21-page opinion.
Lauren Wirtis, communications officer for the environmental quality department said officials will continue to work with counsel at the Oregon Department of Justice on how to move move forward.
“We consider this an administrative ruling,” Wirtis said. “It doesn’t deter us from ensuring this plan is fully implemented.” She said among the possible options the agency and the justice department are considering are to appeal the case to the Oregon Supreme Court or potentially go through an administrative process to address the procedural problem.
Until then, it’s unclear what will happen with the Climate Protection Program, enacted under the administration of then-Gov. Kate Brown. It was approved in 2021 by the state’s Environmental Quality Commission following more than a year of meetings over rulemaking and public comment. It requires fossil gas companies operating in the state to gradually reduce their emissions, getting to 50% reduction by 2035 and 90% by 2050. At least 26% of the reductions will have to come from the natural gas utilities.
Natural gas is almost entirely methane gas, among the most potent climate-warming greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere. One-third of global warming is due to human-caused emissions of methane, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Lawyers for the state’s natural gas utilities – NW Natural, Avista Corporation and Cascade Natural Gas Corporation – challenged the Environmental Quality Commission and the Department of Environmental Quality over the 2021 rules.
They said that in the process of imposing state regulations to cap and reduce emissions, the commission failed to submit required disclosures to them and to other entities that hold federal industrial air pollution permits. Those disclosures include a written explanation about why the state is adopting limits that exceed federal rules and an explanation of alternatives to the rules that were considered and why those alternatives were not adopted.
Officials at the environmental quality department said they were disappointed with the court’s ruling but not worried about the future of the program because the judges ruled on an administrative error, not the validity or authority of the state to adopt and enforce the Climate Protection Program.
“The Climate Protection Program is integral to Oregon’s work to reduce greenhouse emissions, address climate change and benefit the most impacted communities,” Wirtis wrote.
David Roy, communications director for NW Natural, said in an email that the company is “pleased” with the court’s decision and that it still intends to “address climate change.”
“We believe in effective climate policy and remain committed to moving toward a low-carbon energy future while safely and reliably serving our customers,” Roy wrote.
Several energy, farm and timber industry groups intervened on behalf of the gas utilities, including the Oregon Farm Bureau, the Oregon Forest and Industries Council and the Alliance of Western Energy Consumers.
Several legal organizations and environmental nonprofits supported the state’s case, including the Portland-based Oregon Environmental Council and the Washington-D.C.-based Natural Resources Defence Council.
In a news release, the groups said the court’s decision was an unfortunate setback, but that the state cannot afford to let it derail the landmark climate regulations.
“We will not stop holding the oil and gas industry accountable for the impact it is having on our lives, our families and our communities,” the groups wrote. “Without swift state action to restore these protections, the court’s decision to invalidate the Climate Protection Program based on a procedural technicality will cause incalculable harm to Oregon families, workers, and local economies, now and in the future.” (SOURCE)
Oregon Registered Domestic Partnerships expand to all couples in 2024
PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Registered Domestic Partnerships will be available to couples of any sex beginning Jan. 1, 2024.
House Bill 2032, passed during Oregon’s 2023 legislative session, removes restrictions on the sex of partners entering into Oregon Registered Domestic Partnerships. Starting Jan. 1, Oregon Registered Domestic Partnerships will be available to all adult couples (age 18+) regardless of sex. By state law, Oregon Registered Domestic Partnerships are granted all the same rights, benefits, and responsibilities as marriage.
The Declaration of Oregon Registered Domestic Partnership form, instructions and frequently asked questions are located at the Oregon Center for Health Statistics website.
Couples who wish to become registered Domestic Partners must sign and notarize the Declaration form and file it with a county clerk’s office, where they may receive a commemorative certificate. Once the form is registered at the Center for Health Statistics, certified copies of the vital record can be ordered in person, via drop box, or by mail, phone or the internet.
Visit www.HealthOregon.org/chs for information on ordering a certified copy, including fees.
Home replacement assistance for 2020 Labor Day disaster survivors coming in 2024
SALEM, Ore. — The Homeowner Assistance and Reconstruction Program (HARP) will be the first assistance available directly to 2020 Labor Day disaster survivors administered by Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). The program is part of ReOregon, which is funded by a $422 million Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
HARP assistance will help low- and moderate-income homeowners who still need to repair, rebuild, or replace their homes. Those who have already completed repairs or rebuilding may be reimbursed in a future phase of HARP, if funds are still available.
“OHCS remains committed to action towards recovering, rebuilding, and revitalizing our communities,” said OHCS Director Andrea Bell. “As trusted voices in their communities, our partners have a pulse on the needs of our many neighbors and friends who are still working to recover. ”
OHCS will begin accepting applications for HARP by the end of March 2024. The agency has partnered with community-based organizationsto support the launch of HARP.
The following organizations will be conducting outreach and providing in-person support to help survivors work through the application process:
- Glide Revitalization, Douglas County
- ACCESS, NOWIA Unete Center for Farmworker Advocacy, and Firebrand Resilience Collective (Remake Talent), Jackson County
- McKenzie Valley Long Term Recovery Group, Lane County
- Community Services Consortium, Lincoln County
- Santiam Service Integration Team (Santiam Hospital), Linn and Marion counties
In addition, Unite Oregon in Jackson County and the Lincoln County Long Term Recovery Group will be assisting with the outreach work.
“Every household who lost their home in the Labor Day disaster has struggled to recover—and, unfortunately, many continue to do so,” said Joe Vollmar, chief operations and housing officer at ACCESS community action agency. “ReOregon is probably the last, best chance that many survivors will have to receive significant assistance. Knowing how hard it has been for Oregonians to work with FEMA and other recovery programs, we appreciate that OHCS is taking the time build a user-friendly system and fund local organizations like ours to help survivors with the application process.”
While OHCS and its partners continue to prepare to launch an application portal, survivors can help make the process as smooth as possible by ensuring they have the right documentation before they apply. HARP applicants will need the following information:
- Proof they owned the damaged or destroyed home, and it was their primary residence.
- Records of damage from the 2020 Labor Day Disasters.
- Proof of current income.
- Record of any insurance or other recovery funds you received.
- Personal identification (ID) for all household members over the age of 18.
OHCS recognizes how challenging this disaster has been and wants to work with survivors to ensure they have the resources they need to apply to the appropriate ReOregon program. The federal rules governing CDBG-DR are extensive and include significant documentation requirements for any beneficiary households.
Survivors can stay up to date on ReOregon programs in various stages of development, by signing up for email updates and visiting the ReOregon website at re.oregon.gov.
New Oregon Transparency Website Launched
New Oregon Transparency Website provides details on state spending and performance.
Salem, OR — Enterprise Information Services has launched a new Oregon Transparency Website, which went live on Dec. 13, 2023. The transparency website features information and resources on public meetings, public records, state salaries, revenue, budgets and more.
In 2009, through the approval of House Bill 2500, Oregon state government enacted the Oregon Transparency Program and website legislation. The program created an open resource where website visitors can access details on how the state is spending tax dollars and information on programs and services that provide investments back into Oregon’s economy.
The Transparency Oregon Advisory Commission (TOAC) was created to advise on website content and information. The Commission consists of state senators, state representatives, Legislative Fiscal Office staff, as well as state agency and public members.
Enterprise Information Services’ Data Governance and Transparency Program focused efforts in 2023 to redesign the website to include updated content, more user-friendly navigation, and a new design to promote greater interactivity and transparency for the public. The process included insight from current users, agencies, committees and site analytics to improve the user’s experience.
Chief Data Officer Kathryn Darnall Helms, the director of Data Governance and Transparency, says the new site is “a significant improvement in how we get valuable information and data out to our constituents, and is but one part of how we are pushing for greater transparency and more open data within Oregon state government.”
Links:
- Oregon Transparency – State of Oregon Public Meetings: https://www.oregon.gov/transparency/Pages/Public-Meetings.aspx
- Oregon Transparency – State of Oregon Public Records Request: https://www.oregon.gov/transparency/Pages/Public-Records-Request.aspx
- Oregon Transparency – State of Oregon Salaries: https://www.oregon.gov/transparency/Pages/State-Salaries.aspx
- Oregon Transparency – State of Oregon Revenue: https://www.oregon.gov/transparency/Pages/Revenue.aspx
- Oregon Transparency – State of Oregon Budget: https://www.oregon.gov/transparency/Pages/budget.aspx
- Oregon House Bill 2500 (2009): https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2009R1/Downloads/MeasureDocument/HB2500/Enrolled
- Oregon Transparency Laws and Legislation: https://www.oregon.gov/transparency/pages/Laws-Legislation.aspx
- Transparency Oregon Advisory Commission: https://www.oregon.gov/transparency/pages/about-transparency.aspx#transparency-commission
- Enterprise Information Services: https://www.oregon.gov/eis/Pages/default.aspx
- Enterprise Information Services Data Governance and Transparency: https://www.oregon.gov/eis/data-governance-and-transparency/Pages/default.aspx
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.
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)
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.
AAA expects 115 million Americans including 1.6 million Oregonians to head away from home for the holidays
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 and the second-highest holiday travel volume since 2000 when AAA began tracking holiday travel, only behind 2019. About 1.63 million Oregonians will pack their sleighs for a holiday trip.
The year-end holiday travel period is defined as 10 days from Saturday, Dec. 23, 2023, through Monday, Jan. 1, 2024.
About 90% of travelers or 104 million will drive to their holiday destinations, up 1.8% compared to 2022. In Oregon, roughly 1.4 million will drive.
Air travel sets a new record this holiday season, with 7.5 million Americans including 156,000 Oregonians taking to the skies. This is up 4.7% over last year. In all, about 6.5% of all holiday travelers will fly to their destinations.
Travel by other modes, including cruises, trains and buses, is also reaching new highs this year with 4 million travelers including 50,000 Oregonians. This is up 10.7% from last year. In all, about 3.5% of all travelers will go by these modes.
“We’ve seen robust demand for travel throughout 2023, and now people are ready to wrap up the year with holiday trips. We expect to see about 2.5 million more travelers for Christmas and New Year’s this year compared to 2022,” says Doreen Loofburrow, senior vice president of travel for AAA Oregon/Idaho. “Your AAA card can provide discounts and rewards, and we recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.”
“This holiday season will be the second-busiest in the last two decades, with air travel setting new records this year. Count on busy roads and crowded airports this holiday season. With some planning before your trip, and patience and flexibility along the way, you can have an enjoyable holiday trip,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho. “Weather is always the wild card this time of year, so make sure you have a plan B, just in case.”
Most will travel by car
AAA projects nearly 104 million Americans (90.0% of travelers) will drive to their holiday destination. This is up 1.8% compared to 2022. Travel by car this year will be the second highest on record, up nearly 2 million from last year but lower than 2019 when 108 million Americans drove out of town for the holidays.
In Oregon, roughly 1.4 million will drive.
Air travel to set new record
Holiday air travel will jump to the highest volume ever for the holidays with 7.5 million air travelers. This is up 4.7% over last year and beats 2019’s previous high mark of 7.3 million passengers.
Approximately 156,000 Oregonians will travel by air. In all, 6.5% of holiday travelers will fly to their destinations.
Air travel to set new record
Holiday air travel will jump to the highest volume ever for the holidays with 7.5 million air travelers. This is up 4.7% over last year and beats 2019’s previous high mark of 7.3 million passengers.
Approximately 156,000 Oregonians will travel by air. In all, 6.5% of holiday travelers will fly to their destinations.
Gas prices similar to last year
Those who hit the road for the holidays will find gas prices that are similar to last year’s holiday season.
The current (as of Dec. 20) national average for regular unleaded is $3.10 and the Oregon average is $3.84. Find current prices at https://gasprices.aaa.com/
AAA members can fill up for less at Shell stations when they join the Fuel Rewards® program at AAA.com/Shell. Save 30¢/gal on your first fill-up at Shell when you join the Fuel Rewards® program by 12/31/23 and make your first transaction within 30 days of joining. After that, save 5¢/gal every day on each individual fill-up of up to 20 gallons from participating Shell stations.
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.
