The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
Willamette Valley Weather
Another round of freezing rain, then warming Wednesday morning across northwest Oregon.
High temperatures are anticipated to return to the upper 40s or low 50s Wednesday, with rain in the Willamette Valley and snow in Cascades, for the rest of the week.
“We’ll definitely have some possibility of power outages, tree damage and slippery roads,” said Jacob Hall with the National Weather Service in Portland. “The good news is that we’re not forecasting strong winds.”
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?
Weather and Spin Outs Brings I-5 South of Eugene to Stand Still
Hundreds of people spent more than 15 hours stuck on Interstate 5 south of Eugene, but many more are still stuck on the highway. Spin-outs and loss of traction caused multiple accidents, and brought traffic on I-5 Northbound near Cottage Grove to a stand-still.
According to David House, ODOT Public Affairs for Northwest Oregon, the spin-outs and loss of tire traction on the northbound travel lanes of I-5 happened Monday night between Cottage Grove and Eugene.
“[Traffic delays are] happening any time there is a slide-out that blocks even just one lane, and in some cases there is only one lane because the ice is so thick and heavily traveled, so it doesn’t take much to stop traffic,” House said. “Traffic has still not caught up with that. In normal driving conditions it could take a couple hours for that kind of traffic to catch up. This is not normal. This is unseasonably cold weather.”
In the hours of stand-still traffic, dozens of drivers had fallen asleep at the wheel, not noticing when lanes had cleared up in front of the, prolonging the backup.
“Last night, as we got I-5 moving again, ODOT and state police had to go down I-5 south of Eugene and knock on windows and wake people up who had fallen asleep, in some cases, just stopped in the travel lane because there was no way to pull off onto the shoulder,” House said.
Almost 24 hours later, traffic continued to show extreme delays in the area and hazardous driving conditions because officials have been unable to get on I-5 to salt the roads.
“Having vehicles stranded, I mean, that’s not just an inconvenience, you know for ODOT crews and for drivers,” House said. “It can be dangerous too.”
According to House, there is no estimate for when traffic on I-5 will be back to normal due to how thick the ice is and how consistently freezing temperatures remain. ODOT is continuing to strongly urge drivers to stay home if possible.
Oregon 99 between Cottage Grove and Creswell remains closed in the Saginaw area due to downed trees.
Although a backup on the northbound side of Interstate 5 south of Eugene has been clearing, the accumulated ice is continuing to make that 15-20 mile stretch very slow. Crews are again sanding that stretch of Interstate 5 as well as other highways, but they are seeing vehicles traveling too fast for conditions when traffic is light. Oregon State Police are increasing patrols south of Eugene to enforce speed and chain laws.
ODOT is continuing to ask motorists to delay their travels until later this week if possible. For the latest information on road conditions, go to: www.tripcheck.com.
An update from the Oregon Department of Transportation said those who must travel should carry tire chains, fuel, water, and other supplies for a longer trip than usual – as well as possible closure of roads if conditions become unsafe.
Many People Suffering From the Icy Conditions and Hard to Find Help Around the Valley
Widespread power outages and road closures
ROAD CONDITIONS: TripCheck
Severe weather has caused a Spectrum service outage around the state. Get service updates, outage information and other helpful resources at Spectrum.net/stormcenter.
Oregon Power Outage MAP: https://poweroutage.us/area/state/oregon
Over 87,000 Oregon Residents Without Power
Over 87,000 residents of Oregon are waking up without power this morning (as of 5:00 AM PT). Unfortunately, the build-up of freezing rain and ice has led to this. Lane County, which includes Eugene, is taking the lead with over 60% of the county without power (see above). More than 11,000 Springfield residents without power since Sunday.
Ice storm warnings are in effect from Longview, WA through Salem, OR. This does include Portland, OR, as well. Traveling on I-5 and surrounding areas will be extremely dangerous. We recommend staying home this morning, if at all possible.
Governor Kotek declares state of emergency in Lane County as the area continues to affected by winter weather.
This follows a unanimous request from the Lane County Board of Commissioners. The declaration will help support response and recovery to the county.
Lane County has suffered extensive damage as a result of the winter storm conditions that we’re seeing across Oregon,” Governor Kotek said. “This emergency declaration will support the county in accessing critical federal resources to aid in reconstruction and recovery efforts. My office is monitoring the ongoing weather conditions and will continue to support local communities in their response and recovery efforts.
The Lane County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously Wednesday evening to declare an emergency due to the ice storm.
You can read the Board Order at https://bit.ly/3Hk1mkr
A county emergency declaration means:
The cost to respond to the incident locally has exceeded $2 million across agencies, including local governments and utilities.
Lane County can ask for reimbursement from the state or federal government if disasters are declared at those levels.
Cities and other eligible local agencies can seek reimbursement if it becomes available.
Certain procurement rules are waived so that Lane County can more quickly purchase supplies or contract with companies to help recover from the disaster.
The declaration does not:
Create any travel restrictions or curfews for residents.
Create any additional financial resources for residents.
Automatically deploy the National Guard or other agencies.
Lane County and other local agencies continue to work together to re-open roads, restore power, provide warming locations, and more in response to the storm. Residents are asked to continue to shelter in place if possible until road conditions improve.
Lane Electric says that transmission lines supplying power to several of their substations have sustained damage leaving a larger number of members without power. They state that customers should be ready for power outages to last through Friday.
City of Eugene’s Public Works Department Working On Addressing Scores of Tree Hazards and Closed Roads
City of Eugene’s Public Works Department stated in a media release Tuesday afternoon that City Public Works crews are still making progress on priority road treatment while also addressing scores of tree hazards.
Because many roads have a thick layer of hard ice that can’t be fully mitigated with plowing, de-icing and sanding, residents are reminded to avoid driving. Additionally, some steep or hilly streets are not navigable by City vehicles.
The forecast calls for another bout of freezing rain Tuesday before temperatures warm overnight.
Crews expect additional damage to trees as the weight of ice accumulates.
Public Works staff are in the field addressing hazard trees. Anyone who sees a tree or tree limb down on a road or in a median should call 541-682-4800.
“Please include details on how big the hazard is, where it is and how many lanes of traffic it is blocking,” the City said.
Urban Forestry teams are working closely with EWEB, as some downed powerlines are tangled with trees and vice versa. If you see a downed powerline, do not touch it. Call EWEB at 1-844-484-2300 to report its location.
Relatedly, all City parks remain closed until further notice for safety reasons. People who traditionally use bike paths to travel around the city are prohibited from entering park properties. The paths are not being maintained and are too icy to use safely.
The Snow/Ice Emergency protocol is still in place. This means all vehicles may not be parked on designated snow emergency routes so crews can sand and clear roads. The second round of leaf pickup has been suspended until equipment is released from storm response duty.
To learn more about how the City of Eugene responds to storms, visit Storm Response.
Update: Lane County Government service changes for January 17
Lane County Government is again modifying the availability of some services tomorrow, January 17, due to the ongoing issues related to the ice storm.
The list of services that are being adjusted due to the weather can be found at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/closures. As conditions change, the webpage will be updated.
Many services are not affected; however, people are encouraged to do as much as they can over the phone or online before coming into any open location. If a service is not listed, no changes have been made but calling ahead is still recommended.
Lane County is keeping their Facebook page updated: https://www.facebook.com/LaneCountyGovernment
LCSO Case #24-0237 – House Fire
UPDATE – 01/16/24 — Investigators have located the deceased remains of one person within the residence. The victim’s identity is being withheld at this time and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. —
LCSO Case #24-0237 – House Fire——- This morning just after 2:30 am, Lane County Sheriff’s Deputies and South Lane Fire & Rescue personnel responded to a report of a fully involved house fire in the 37000 block of Meyer Road outside of Cottage Grove. One resident is currently unaccounted for. The cause of the fire is under investigation with assistance from the State Fire Marshal and an investigator with the Oregon State Police. Anyone with information regarding this fire is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150, option 1.
What a few days it has been: Bus Service, Garbage Collection and Even Delivery of Sunday Register-Guard Canceled Due to Severe Winter Storm – Flights Canceled at Eugene Airport and No Mail
Everyone should be prepared for the possibility of long-term power outages and more extreme weather. Many businesses closed and important you check with your neighbors.
Individuals in need of resources during this winter storm should call 2-1-1 to get information on resources available in your community.
EWEB – At this time, the Eugene Water and Electric Board has received reports of 61 outages. 3,652 EWEB customers are currently without power. More information is available on their website.
Outages can be reported to EWEB by calling 1-844-484-2300.
SUB – On January 14, Springfield Utility Board said they still have about 6,000 customers without power, primarily in the east and southeast areas of Springfield. SUB said that customers should be prepared for the possibility of extended-duration outages.
Updated information can be found on their Facebook page. Outages can be reported to Springfield Electric Board by calling 541-726-2395.
EPUD – Emerald People’s Utility District said they are experiencing large and widespread outages throughout their district.
Updated information can be found on their Facebook page. Outages can be reported to EPUD by calling (541) 746-1583.
Pacific Power – At this time, Pacific Power said there are 240 outages in Oregon affecting 16658 customers.
Pacific Power said crews are working to restore power, but customers should be prepared for the possibility of extended duration outages.
Outages can be reported to Pacific Power by calling 1-877-508-5088. More information is available on their website.
Lane Electric Cooperative – On January 13, Lane Electric Cooperative said they were experiencing outages impacting members in Creswell, Eugene, Oakridge, Blue River, McKenzie Bridge, and Vida. Trees falling on powerlines due to the snow and ice conditions are causing the outages.
On January 14, Lane Electric Cooperative said that members should be prepared for power outages to last through Friday. More information is available on their website.
Outages can be reported to Lane Electric Cooperative by calling 541-484-1151.
Douglas Electric Cooperative -On January 14, Douglass Electric Cooperative said that there were outages in the Territorial, Smith River, and Steelhead Drive areas. More information is available on their website.
Outages can be reported to Douglass Electric Cooperative by calling 1-888-420-8826.
Lane County Health & Human Services Updates County-Wide Warming Spaces List
With temperatures forecasted to be in the low 20s at night and near freezing during the day over the weekend and into Monday, Lane County Health & Human Services reminds community members to be aware of where warming spaces are located across Lane County. These places are open to anyone who needs to warm up, with some overnight options available. It’s important to note that since Monday is a holiday, the public buildings listed as warming areas will be closed. This information could be the difference between life and death, so please visit, www.lanecountyor.gov/warming to learn more.
Eugene
Amazon Community Center
9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday
2700 Hilyard St. Eugene, OR 97405
Peterson Barn
9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday
870 Berntzen Rd. Eugene, OR 97402
Hilyard Community Center
9 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday
2580 Hilyard St. Eugene, OR 97405
Sheldon Community Center
8 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday
2445 Willakenzie Rd. Eugene, OR 97401
Campbell Community Center
8:30 am to 7 pm Mondays
8:30 am to 4:30 pm Tuesday through Friday
155 High St. Eugene, OR 97401
Downtown Eugene Library
10 am to 8 pm Monday through Thursday
10 am to 6 pm Friday through Sunday
100 W. 10th Ave. Eugene, OR 97401
Bethel Branch Library
10 am to 6 pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
12 pm to 8 pm Tuesday
Closed on Sunday
1990 Echo Hollow Road Eugene, OR 97402
Sheldon Branch Library
10 am to 6 pm Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
12 pm to 8 pm Tuesday
Closed on Sunday
1566 Coburg Road Eugene, OR 97401
St. Vincent de Paul Service Station
Open 7 days a week, 8:30 am to 5 pm
456 Hwy 99 Eugene, OR 97402
St. Vincent de Paul’s 1st Place Family Center
Open 7 days a week, 9 am to 5 pm
4060 W. Amazon Dr. Eugene, OR 97405
Looking Glass New Roads Center (Youth and Young Adults up through age 24)
Open 7 days a week, 8:30 am to 8:30 pm
941 W. 7th Ave. Eugene, OR 97401
Egan Warming Centers (Eugene/Springfield)
Locations subject to change but posted on the website https://www.svdp.us/services/shelter-assistance/egan-warming-centers/
Activates at 29 and below
Eugene Mission
Additional space available during Inclement Weather Protocol. Activates at 30 and below. Ideal entry time between 4 and 5 pm, but people will not be turned away if there is space that night.
1542 W 1st Ave. Eugene, OR 97402
Springfield
Springfield City Hall at 225 5th Street
Mondays: 8 am to 7 pm (closed January 15 in observance of MLK Day)
Tuesdays: 8 am to 7 pm
Wednesdays: 8 am to 6 pm
Thursdays: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 5 pm
Saturdays: 10 am to 3 pm
Any changes will be posted on the City’s website at springfield-or.gov
Willamalane Park and Recreation District open hours by facility:
– Bob Keefer Center at 250 S 32nd Street
Monday through Friday: 7 am to 9 pm
Saturday: 8 am to 5 pm
Sunday: 12 pm to 5 pm
– Splash! at Lively Park at 6100 Thurston Road
January Hours
Monday: 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm; waterpark swim will be open from 1 pm to 5 pm on January 15
Wednesday: 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Friday: 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Saturday & Sunday: 1 pm to 5 pm
– Willamalane Adult Activity Center at 215 W. C Street
Monday through Friday: 8 am to 4 pm (closed on January 15 in observance of MLK Day)
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
– Willamalane Park Swim Center at 1276 G Street
Monday through Friday: 6 am to 9 pm (closed on January 15 in observance of MLK Day)
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Any changes will be posted to Willamalane’s website at willamalane.org/alerts.
Catholic Community Services OASIS (Drop-In Day Center)
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8 am to 4 pm
Wednesday: 8 am to 6 pm
1175 G Street, Springfield
Clients must enroll in OASIS first, 541-345-3628 ext. 390 or OASIS@ccslc.org (Pets not allowed)
Closed Holidays and Weekends
Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove Community Center
Open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm
Closed Saturday & Sunday
700 E Gibbs Ave. Cottage Grove, OR 97424
Florence
Florence Warming Center
Transportation available between 5 pm and 6 pm
Location varies and announced during each activation
Information on activations can be found at Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/FECWS/
Pick up sites at Siuslaw Library, Safeway, Linda’s Laundry Mat: Look for white flags
Activates at 39 degrees when windy and rainy, or 33 degrees
Motels available on activation nights for families with minors and individuals with mobility issues
541-997-4444 (SOS after hours)
541-997-6600 (Shelter)
Siuslaw Public Library
10 am to 6 pm Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday
10 am to 8 pm Tuesday and Wednesday
1 pm to 5 pm Saturday
1460 9th St. Florence, OR 97439
Oakridge
Oakridge Warming Shelter/ Greenwaters Park Community Center
6 am to 7 am (overnight)
48362 OR-58, Oakridge, OR 97463
Activates at 32 degrees and lower
Veneta
Veneta Warming Shelter/Fern Ridge Community Services
25133 East Broadway Ave. Veneta, OR 97487
Activates at 29 degrees and below
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is extended closures throughout much of the lower Willamette Valley. According to ODOT the closures are due to downed trees and powerlines.
Closures include:
- OR 126 milepost 14 to 41
- Mapleton to west of Noti; OR 36 milepost 11 to 36, east of Swisshome to Triangle Lake
- OR 229 milepost 0 to 31, south of Lincoln City to Toledo
- U.S. 20 milepost 32 to 72 Sweet Home to 2 miles east of Shea Viewpoint.
ODOT says the closures are extremeley challenging and are rapidly changing, warning drivers that closures could last several hours to several days.
Severe weather is likely to hit again Tuesday and temperatures are not forecasted to get above freezing forcing highway closures throughout northwest Oregon, including the Coast, Portland, and the Willamette Valley, as well as higher elevations.
ODOT asks drivers to stay home and reschedule travel plans if possible.
For the latest traffic updates head to TripCheck.com.
Man arrested for Sex Abuse after incidents with homeless persons
On January 12, the Eugene Police Department arrested Reginald Luke Black Elk III, age 29, for six counts of Sex Abuse in the First Degree, two counts of Attempted Sex Abuse in the First Degree and 19 counts of Public Indecency.
This arrest follows a lengthy investigation regarding allegations that Black Elk committed sexual crimes targeting unhoused individuals in our community. Black Elk wore a unique superhero costume while committing these crimes. His red and black costume included a cape and eye mask.
The Eugene Police Department is asking anyone who may have encountered someone matching this description and engaged in suspicious behavior to please reach out to Eugene Police Officer Jordan or Detective Cooper via email at ajordan@eugene-or.gov or tcooper@eugene-or.gov to provide information. Case 23-12870
Cottage Grove Woman Arrested For Racist Threats
The FBI has arrested a 56-year-old Cottage Grove woman accused of making threats online to harm Jews and Black people in posts displaying a Nazi flag and multiple guns.
Elizabeth Ballesteros West, who was found with a cache of guns and has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, was arrested Friday and is being held in the Lane County Jail, according to federal agents and court records. She has not yet made her first appearance in federal court in Eugene.
Agents first were alerted in late September to aFacebook post that West put on a transgender women’s support group page, saying she was “at the end of my rope,” was being bullied by “trans phobic” co-workers and was left with no alternative, above a photo of two guns, according to a federal affidavit.
West’s post said she will “have to go out in a blaze of glory” and will “have to do what I have to do and pray for the gods to forgive me,” according to the affidavit.
Further investigation revealed violent rhetoric West subsequently posted on X, formerly Twitter, in December, sharing her hatred of Jews, Black people and immigrants, with photos of a Nazi flag and other guns, the affidavit said.
The posts reference white supremacist tropes and how she was proud of how Nazis “herded” Jewish people into gas chambers during the Holocaust.
FBI agents have met with West at least three times since October. She’s been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, dissociative disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, according to the affidavit.
On Tuesday, the FBI obtained warrants and searched West’s home and car.
They found a pistol in her car and seized 11 handguns, 16 rifles, tens of thousands of rounds of ammunition, firearm accessories and a journal she called her “Black shadow journal,” plus dozens of drawings and notes.
On page one of her journal, she wrote, “Blood, death, self torture self hatred wicked thoughts of mass murder at the gloved hands of the veil mistress,” the affidavit said. The journal covered a period from 2008 through 2016, according to the FBI.
Two FBI agents met Thursday with West’s mental health providers after West had signed a release form allowing the federal agents to consult with them. The mental health workers told the agents that if West didn’t receive mental health treatment and had access to guns, they believed she would be a danger to herself and others, the affidavit said.
She told federal agents she would not voluntarily relinquish her guns to the local sheriff’s office, saying she needed them for protection in her rural area, according to the affidavit. (SOURCE)
Conference in Eugene offers learning and networking opportunities to improve workplace safety and health
Salem – A two-day event in Eugene will offer employers and workers a variety of opportunities to gain knowledge, engage in professional networking, and refresh their skills about everything from hazard identification and safety committees to young worker safety and mental health in the workplace.
Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (Oregon OSHA) – a division of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services – joins the Cascade Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals in encouraging employers and workers to attend the 20th biennial Cascade Occupational Safety and Health Conference, to be held March 4-5 at the Graduate Hotel, 66 E. Sixth Ave.
The conference, which includes lunch, awards, and exhibits, offers many workplace safety and health topics. They include:
- Hazard Identification
- Root Cause Analysis
- I’m on the Safety Committee, Now What?
- Exoskeletons in the Workplace: How Are They Working Out?
- Mental Health in the Workplace
- Safety Voices: Promoting Young/New Worker Engagement in Safety and Health
- Climate Crisis and its Effects on Worker Health and Safety
- Preventing Serious Injuries and Fatalities in the Workplace
- Communicating Effectively to Engage the Growing Hispanic Workforce
- Confined Space: Elements of an Effective Program
Registration for the two-day event is $275. Monday-only attendance is $145. Tuesday-only attendance is $145. Register now: safetyseries.cventevents.com/cascade24. For more information about Oregon OSHA safety and health conferences, go online, send an email to egon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov“>oregon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov, or call 503-947-7411
### Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, go to osha.oregon.gov.
The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.oregon.gov/dcbs/.
CAHOOTS Crisis Assistance Temporarily Suspending Medical Care
CAHOOTS has reported that on January 1, 2024 they are temporarily suspending medical care, including vitals monitoring and wound care. They anticipate this suspension to last several weeks.
CAHOOTS will still respond to crises related to mental health, behavioral health, substance use, family disputes, resource gaps and more, they tell us.
CAHOOTS states they are actively working to resolve the issue, and will provide more information as things proceed.
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
Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) will be offering the ReOregon Homeowner Assistance and Reconstruction Program (HARP) to help people whose homes were affected by the 2020 Labor Day Disasters. Learn more and sign up for updates at re.oregon.gov.
Governor Kotek Orders More Resources To Help With Winter Storm Aftermath
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek on Tuesday evening ordered more resources to help in the aftermath of two back-to-back winter storms that have had devastating effects on the western side of the state this week.
Kotek announced that she has directed the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Public Health Division, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), and the Oregon Department of Human Services Office of Resiliency and Emergency Management (ODHS-OREM) to employ additional resources.
“Over the last few days, state employees and countless local responders have worked around the clock and volunteered their time to support their fellow Oregonians in need as frigid temperatures and winter storm conditions left thousands without power and at risk for medical emergencies,” Governor Kotek said. “I want to thank everyone across the state who continue to help those in need. In times of crisis, I’m always inspired by how Oregonians step up to take care of one another.”
A winter storm over the weekend accompanied by subfreezing temperatures and high winds resulted in hundreds of trees falling across the Portland metro with over 160,000 people left in the dark without power or heat.
“As severe winter weather conditions and the potential for long-term power outages continue, my office and state agencies will continue to support local jurisdictions and provide updates and resources to keep individuals and families safe. If you don’t feel safe at home or need to know where your nearest warming center is, please call 211. They will help get you the information you need to reach a safe place to stay warm,” wrote Kotek.
Governor Kotek has also directed the Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division to deploy SERV-OR volunteers to provide medical care in warming shelters across the state. SERV-OR is OHA’s statewide roster of licensed physicians, nurses, pharmacists, emergency medical technicians, and others who have registered to volunteer in response to public health emergencies. SERV-OR volunteers help to take pressure off the health care delivery system. It is estimated nearly 200 medical professionals have expressed interest in volunteering at warming shelters around the state during the winter storm.
Kotek’s office said, over the past weekend, ODHS-OREM coordinated a hotline that connected state employees with nearby warming shelters in need of support. So far, more than 170 state employees have volunteered to serve Oregonians in shelters across the state, and 112 have been assigned to open shelters across 19 counties.
Anyone who wants to volunteer at a local warming shelter can use this link to sign up. Additionally, ODHS-OREM activated 211info to begin 24/7 operations to support warming center efforts statewide. (SOURCE)
Ice and Snow and Freezing Temperatures — ODOT traffic alert. Road conditions remain challenging statewide
The Pacific Northwest is expected to see freezing temperatures and maybe even lowland snow this week as part of the polar vortex blasts southward from the Arctic. ODOT is alerting travelers during the extended holiday weekend for Martin Luther King Say that road conditions remain challenging statewide as freezing temperatures span across much of the northern part of Oregon.
Here is the full announcement from ODOT:
In the Portland Metro area, ice and strong winds are toppling trees and bringing down powerlines. Widespread power outages mean that many electronic road signs and traffic lights may be out. Treat traffic signals that aren’t working like a four-way stop. Never drive over downed power lines.
The Willamette Valley and central Coast areas are experiencing icy roads and freezing temperatures. Expect long highway closures as crews work to remove hundreds of downed trees, and repair powerlines and network cables.
Temperatures across these areas are not forecast to be above freezing for the next few days. There is a strong possibility we could see more freezing rain on Tuesday.
Warming temperatures in southwest Oregon could lead to flooding. Watch for high water and debris on the roadway, especially on valley and coastal routes. Delays and closures are likely on mountain highways as crews work to remove snow and downed trees.
The safest place to be during winter road conditions is at home. Our crews want to give a heartfelt thank you to every person who decided not to travel this weekend. Staying off the roads gives our crews and emergency responders the space to get where they need to go.
Road and weather conditions can change quickly and make travel difficult or impossible. For the latest state highway information and to see current closures, visit Tripcheck.com. For the latest weather, visit the National Weather Service website.
If you must travel, be prepared – Safety is our priority – for travelers and our road crews. If you decide to travel, plan extra time for your journey and carry emergency supplies. Delays and closures are happening statewide. Expect to encounter chain restrictions.
Give snowplows and emergency crews extra space to do their work, and never pass a snowplow on the right. Our crews are working hard to clear roads, but their job becomes more difficult when disabled cars and trucks block traffic.
For more winter weather driving tips, see our winter travel news packet.
To see images from this winter event from across Oregon, see our January 2024 Flickr album.
Watches, Warnings or Advisories for Oregon https://alerts.weather.gov/cap/or.php?x=1
Oregon Secretary Of State Releases Primary Candidate Names Though Subject To Change
Oregon’s secretary of state released an initial list of candidates who will appear on the Democratic and Republican presidential primaries — including former President Donald Trump, whose ballot status is before the U.S. Supreme Court.
Tuesday’s announcement comes a day after Trump swept the Iowa caucuses, the first such vote this year. Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade said it’s standard policy to release candidate names at this point in the election process. Oregon’s primary is May 21.
“The 2024 primary election is just four months away,” Griffin-Valade said. Registration
Oregonians who’ve moved, changed their names or want to check their registration status can go to Oregonvotes.gov. The state’s motor voter law automatically registers residents through the Department of Motor Vehicles. But they have to designate affiliation with a party to vote in the primaries. Voters have to register by April 30 either electronically, through a postmark or in person. The primary is May 21.
She said the preliminary Democratic candidates are President Joe Biden, U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota and self-help author and spiritual leader Marianne Williamson.
The Republican candidates are Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.
Following Monday’s vote in Iowa, Ohio businessman Vivek Ramaswamy dropped out of the race, as did former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie also dropped out last week. New Hampshire will hold its primary next Tuesday
Groups trying to oust Trump from ballots across the country asked the Oregon secretary of state last year to take him off the Oregon primary ballot under the 14th Amendment. It bars anyone from holding office who “engaged in insurrection” after previously swearing to uphold the U.S. Constitution. Griffin-Valade said in November she lacked the authority to do that, based on advice from the Oregon Department of Justice. In December, a group of Oregon voters asked the Oregon Supreme Court to remove Trump, but the court has deferred to the U.S. Supreme Court, which will hear arguments on Feb. 8 in an appeal of a decision by the Colorado Supreme Court to remove Trump from the ballot.
Griffin-Valade indicated in her release that the candidates on the ballot could change. She said she will issue a final list after Oregon’s filing deadline has passed on March 12.
“Names will be removed from the list if a candidate suspends their campaign or otherwise publicly announces that they are no longer running for president in the 2024 election,” Griffin-Valade said.
She has the sole authority to decide who’s on the ballot based on whether candidates are legitimate and covered by the media.
“To decide if candidates meet the statutory criteria, the secretary is relying on national polls and including all candidates who have the support of a minimum of 1% of party voters,” Griffin-Valade said.
Candidates can also access the ballot through a nominating petition, which requires the support of 6,000 valid signatures from active members of a candidate’s party. They have to be submitted by Feb. 27. (SOURCE)
Registration
Oregonians who’ve moved, changed their names or want to check their registration status can go to Oregonvotes.gov. The state’s motor voter law automatically registers residents through the Department of Motor Vehicles. But they have to designate affiliation with a party to vote in the primaries. Voters have to register by April 30 either electronically, through a postmark or in person. The primary is May 21.
State, IRS to start processing tax returns January 29th
The Oregon Department of Revenue will begin processing e-filed 2023 state income tax returns on January 29, 2024, the same day the IRS will begin processing federal returns. Paper filed returns will be processed starting in mid-February.
E-filed returns will be processed in the order they are received. However, as in years past, the department won’t be issuing personal income tax refunds until after February 15. A refund hold is part of the department’s tax fraud prevention efforts and allows for confirmation that the amounts claimed on tax returns match what employers report on Forms W-2 and 1099.
E-filing is the fastest way for a taxpayer to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.
The department reminds taxpayers that taking a few easy steps in the next few weeks can make preparing their 2023 tax return easier in 2024.
Oregon Free File opens today
Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own returns in 2024 can file electronically at no cost using one of Oregon’s free file options. Free guided tax preparation is available from several companies for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Free fillable forms are available for all income levels. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free.
Free and low-cost tax help
Free tax preparation services are available for low- to moderate-income taxpayers through AARP and CASH Oregon. United Way also offers free tax help through their MyFreeTaxes program. Visit the Department of Revenue website to take advantage of the software and free offers and get more information about free tax preparation services.
Use Revenue Online to verify payments
Taxpayers can verify their estimated payments through their Revenue Online account.
Through Revenue Online, individuals can also view letters sent to them by the department, initiate appeals, make payments, and submit questions. Visit Revenue Online on the Revenue website to learn more.
To check the status of your refund after February 15, or make payments, visit Revenue’s website . You can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), we accept all relay calls. (SOURCE)
Supreme Court Will Hear Grants Pass Homeless Camping Case
The U.S. Supreme Court will hear a case that originated in Grants Pass and could set a precedent for how cities around the nation are able to respond to homeless camps.
The case, Grants Pass v. Johnson, centers on a lawsuit by a group of homeless people against city restrictions on outdoor sleeping. The outcome of the Supreme Court’s decision in the case wouldn’t have a major impact in Oregon, according to Ed Johnson, lead counsel at Oregon Law Center, which is representing plaintiffs in the case. That’s because Oregon passed a state law in 2021 that blocks cities from punishing people sleeping outside on public property.
Under the state law, cities are allowed to enact “objectively reasonable” restrictions on the time, place and manner of outside camps. For instance, the city of Beaverton adopted a new law allowing camping on public rights-of-way between 9 p.m. and 7:30 a.m., and Bend passed a new law banning camping in residential areas and requiring people to move locations at least 600 feet every 24 hours.
The Oregon law, championed by now-Gov. Tina Kotek during her time as speaker, was a response to an earlier decision in the Grants Pass case and the 2019 Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision in Martin v. Boise, which prohibited governments in the nine Western states under the court’s purview from punishing homeless people for sleeping outside when cities didn’t have adequate shelter space available.
The Grants Pass case began as a challenge to a local law that prohibited homeless people from using blankets, pillows or cardboard boxes to protect themselves from the elements while sleeping outside. A three-judge panel on the Ninth Circuit concluded that punishing people who lack shelter amounts to cruel and unusual punishment and violates the Eighth Amendment.
“At its most basic level, the case is about whether cities can punish people for existing outside when they have nowhere else to go,” Johnson said.
The case coincides with rising homelessness throughout the country, particularly on the West Coast. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development last month announced that more than 650,000 people nationwide were homeless in January 2023, a 12% increase since the year prior. More than a third of the nation’s homeless population was in Washington, California and Oregon, which had more than 20,000 homeless residents at the time of the count.
Western states have far higher rates of unsheltered homelessness than other areas, with more than two-thirds of California’s homeless population and nearly two-thirds of Oregon’s lacking shelter. The 2023 data predates last year’s investments in shelters and rehousing, which added more than 1,000 new shelter beds. (SOURCE)
Timber Industry Tied To Proposal Shifting Wildfire Protection Costs From Landowners To Public
Timber companies appear to have played an influential role in a new legislative proposal to find sustainable funding for fighting wildfires. If passed, it could save the industry millions of dollars in fees they now pay to the state for fire protection and shift more of the cost to all Oregon property owners.
Sen. Elizabeth Steiner, D-Portland, will present the proposal on Wednesday morning to the Senate Natural Resources and Wildfire Committee for consideration during the session. It would impose a $10 fee on all property holders in Oregon to pay for fighting wildfires, raising an estimated $20 million a year, about 15% of the projected total cost for wildfire protection in 2024. The proposal would reduce the per-acre fees that private and public forest and range landowners now pay to the Oregon Department of Forestry for protection.
Fighting wildfires has grown significantly more expensive in the last few years, and the state’s general fund has absorbed much of the excess cost, along with landowners who’ve seen their fees to the forestry department rise. State leaders such as Steiner, who is now running for treasurer, are trying to find new sources of wildfire money to relieve pressure on private landowners – primarily east Oregon ranchers without billions in timber holdings – and the general fund, which pays for other major state investments in mental health, addiction and housing. A proposal by another lawmaker, Sen. Jeff Golden, D-Ashland, would tax timber harvests.
Critics of Steiner’s proposal say it shifts the costs of protecting billions of dollars in private timber assets away from the companies that own much of the land at risk to average Oregonians. They’re also concerned about the membership of a secretive workgroup Steiner convened to help develop the proposal and a lack of transparency around who was allowed to participate in discussions and planning.
Three of the 11 members of the workgroup – whose names Steiner’s office provided after multiple requests from the Capital Chronicle – are employed by industrial timber companies, including one of the world’s largest, Weyerhaeuser. A fourth participant works for the state’s largest timber industry association: the Oregon Forest Industries Council.
A document outlining the proposal from Steiner’s office indicated it was written by a Weyerhaeuser lobbyist: Her name was shown as the author in the file’s metadata, which includes basic information about the history of a document. That lobbyist, Betsy Earls, told the Capital Chronicle she only edited it. She said she copied a document written by Gov. Tina Kotek’s wildfire advisor, Doug Grafe, and edited parts to make it understandable to an audience without a forestry background. Steiner also said Grafe was the key author.
State Sen. Jeff Golden, D-Ashland, will also be proposing wildfire funding legislation to take some financial pressure off of east Oregon ranchers and the state’s general fund. But instead of turning to the public to make up the difference, Golden wants industrial timber companies to pick up a larger share of the costs.
He’ll propose that lawmakers approve a ballot measure to go to Oregon voters. If passed, it would impose a tax on the value of timber harvested on private land, much like the former timber severance tax that was removed in the early 1990s. The tax would be higher depending on the acreage that each company holds, so a small timber operation wouldn’t pay the same rate as a company like Weyerhaeuser.
Golden previously told the Capital Chronicle that imposing a timber value tax could bring the forestry department and local fire districts tens of millions of dollars annually for wildfire prevention, response and responding to threats from climate change.
“There is a segment of the timber industry that’s more than able to shoulder more of the load, and when we think about the protection that they get from ODF, they should be picking up more of the baggage here,” Golden said. READ MORE: https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/01/10/timber-industry-tied-to-proposal-shifting-wildfire-protection-costs-from-landowners-to-public/
The largest dam removal in U.S. history entered a critical phase this week, with the lowering of dammed reservoirs on the Klamath River.
On Thursday, the gate on a 16-foot-wide bypass tunnel at the base of Iron Gate dam, the lowest of those slated to be removed, was opened from a crack to 36 inches.
Amy Cordalis stood in the dawn chill to witness the first big surge as the gate was widened. She’s an attorney and Yurok Tribe member who has played a critical role in advocating for dam removal. As water poured through the tunnel, she could hear boulders rolling and tumbling. The water turned to dark chocolate milk as decades of pent-up sediment surged through.
“This is historic and life-changing,” Cordalis said. “And it means that the Yurok people have a future. It means the river has a future; the salmon have a future.”
One hundred seventy-three feet high, with a 740-foot crest, Iron Gate is an earth embankment dam with a skinny, many-fingered reservoir behind it. The lowering — or drawdown — of Iron Gate and two other reservoirs on the Klamath River will make way for the removal of three remaining hydroelectric dams that are part of the Lower Klamath Project in Northern California and southern Oregon.
For decades, these barriers have blocked salmon, steelhead and Pacific lamprey from accessing habitat above them and contributed to poor water quality below. The Klamath River was once the third-largest salmon producer on the West Coast, but in the time since the dams were constructed, the Klamath’s coho and Chinook runs have dwindled to a fraction of their historic abundance.
When tribal activists first started calling for the removal of four Klamath River dams in the late 1990s, people thought they were “crazy,” said Leaf Hillman, an elder of the Karuk Tribe who helped launch the campaign. “We’ve never really considered any other alternative to removing dams. And so it was a fight that we were committed to, and that we knew that we had to win. And it’s been an intergenerational struggle.”
A massive die-off of Chinook salmon in 2002 catalyzed increased activism around getting the dams removed. An estimated 34,000 to 78,000 fish died. The loss of these fish didn’t just mean the loss of a fun summer fishing activity, said Brook Thompson, a Yurok Tribe member who was 7 years old at the time and is now in her late 20s. “Those salmon to me are the connections I have with my relatives,” she explained. “In a day, that was all gone.”
For the next week, water will flow through the bypass tunnel at an average rate of 2,200 cubic feet per second, draining down Iron Gate reservoir between two and four feet per day. Later this month, J.C. Boyle, the uppermost of the three dams, will be breached, followed by Copco 1. By June, the Klamath River should be flowing more or less within its historic channel, and the work of dismantling the structures can begin.
Advocates are quick to point out that dam removal alone will not save the Klamath River’s salmon runs. However, removing the barriers will open up 76 miles of coho habitat and over 400 miles of Chinook habitat, says Shari Witmore, a fish biologist at NOAA Fisheries.
If modeling is correct, as many as 80% more Chinook salmon could return to the basin within about 30 years after the dams are removed. Ocean harvest could increase by as much as 46%. But this will depend in part on restoring important tributaries, including the cold spring-fed rivers in the upper Klamath Basin, which have been compromised with diking and draining of wetlands.
“Once we restore that, we put this basin back together,” Witmore says. “That creates a lot of resilience over time with climate change, and it buffers against multi-year droughts.”
Cordalis, the Yurok Tribe member, agrees that more work lies ahead. But she’s also looking forward to fulfilling a simple personal goal. “Fishing,” she said. “I want to go fishing.” To see more, visit https://www.npr.org
Asante settled Medicare fraud allegations at Medford hospital
The health system now at the center of a local police investigation recently resolved a lengthy federal probe into a whistleblower lawsuit claiming fraudulent billing
The Medford hospital now at the center of a local police investigation recently resolved a lengthy federal probe into a whistleblower lawsuit claiming fraudulent billing
Weeks before local police launched an investigation into reports of alleged drug diversion and potentially related patient deaths at Asante Rogue Medical Center, hospital management quietly settled litigation stemming from a federal Medicare fraud probe.
The probe, which has not been previously reported, was seemingly unrelated to the new investigation. It was based on a whistleblower lawsuit filed by one of the hospital’s own doctors that accused management at the Medford hospital of ignoring billing fraud. Instead, the suit claimed, management targeted the doctor who reported it.
According to the suit, the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the allegations contained in the lawsuit that was secretly filed under seal in 2021. Court records showed that after investigating, the federal government joined the whistleblower’s suit to recoup funds.
U.S. District Judge Michael McShane in October approved a settlement to which Asante and the doctor accused of overbilling, Dr. Charles Carmeci, collectively agreed. The judge’s order approving the settlement partially unsealed documents in the case.
No criminal charges have resulted from the claims and the federal investigation. In 2022, the hospital received 57% of its revenue from government programs including Medicare and Medicaid, or $642 million in all, according to the most recent financial report submitted to state regulators. (READ MORE)
Investigations Into Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center Patient Deaths Continue But No New News
The investigation could take several weeks or months. MPD will release information as it becomes available.
Hospital Nurse at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford Accused of Replacing Fentanyl with Tap Water Leading to at least 10 Patient Deaths and “Dozens of Patients” Had Been Harmed
The Federal Bureau of Investigation says it is involved with an investigation at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford. The FBI said it’s aware of allegations there under investigation by local police.
This after some sources say as many as ten people have died. Multiple hospital sources, who declined to be identified, confirmed dozens of patients injured by medication diversion — the act of replacing a medication with
another substance. It is believed the fentanyl scheduled to be administered to the patients was then removed from the premises illegally.
Sources allege that a hospital nurse was removing fentanyl from IV bags and replacing it with tap water. The FBI said today it is supporting local police with their work.
Multiple sources also say that water supplies in the Intensive Care Unit and Coronary Care Unit — which are in an older part of the hospital — are unsafe for use on patients, even for face washing. The hospital made numerous public statements during 2023 pertaining to infections and water quality issues.
OHA state agency is part of an investigation now at a Medford hospital, where local and federal law enforcement agencies are investigating allegations of nursing behavior that could have been deadly.
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) says today it’s “aware of reports of incidents at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford involving a nurse alleged to have tampered with pharmaceutical fentanyl used to treat severe pain and introduced tap water in patients’ intravenous lines. OHA also is investigating reports that the incidents led to health care-associated infections that severely injured, and may have caused the deaths of, several patients.”
As of press time, no one was arrested or charged, and Medford Police provided no more details. They only confirmed there’s an open investigation at the medical center.
Red Cross: Emergency blood shortage may delay medical procedures — American Red Cross – Cascades Region
Donors urged to give now as nation faces lowest number of blood donors in decades —- Donors have the chance to help save lives, win trip to Super Bowl LVIII
The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in 20 years. The Red Cross blood supply has fallen to critically low levels across the country, and blood and platelet donors are urged to make a donation appointment to help alleviate the shortage and help ensure lifesaving medical procedures are not put on hold.
Over the last 20 years, the number of people donating blood to the Red Cross has fallen by about 40%. When fewer people donate blood, even small disruptions to blood donations – such as the nearly 7,000-unit shortfall in blood donations the Red Cross experienced between Christmas and New Year’s Day alone – can have a huge impact on the availability of blood products and dramatic consequences for those in need of emergency blood transfusion. Blood products are currently going to hospitals faster than blood donations are coming in, and in recent weeks, the Red Cross has had to limit distributions of type O blood products – among the most transfused blood types – to hospitals.
“Small changes in blood donor turnout can have a huge impact on the availability of blood products and dramatic consequences for those in need of an emergency blood transfusion,” said Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive physician director for the Red Cross. “More challenges may lie ahead as the potential for severe winter weather and seasonal illness may compound the dire blood supply situation. Donors of all types – especially those with type O blood and those giving platelets – are urged to give now.”
Don’t wait – to make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
The Red Cross and the National Football League (NFL) are partnering this January, during National Blood Donor Month, to urge individuals to give blood or platelets and help tackle the emergency blood shortage. Those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma in January will automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Super Bowl.
Who donations help
Sandy Thornton, of Dallas, Oregon, knows firsthand how important a readily available blood and platelet supply is. Sandy battled a rare form of cancer called Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Myleo Fibrosis. She received numerous blood and platelet transfusions until eventually needing a stem cell transplant.
“There are people who cannot get a stem cell transplant, which means they face a lifetime of platelet or blood transfusions. That’s their life. Blood is a lifesaver no matter how you look at it. It’s not just about when disasters happen, it’s when people get sick,” shares Sandy.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and is the primary blood supplier to 65 hospitals throughout Washington and Oregon; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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.
