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, March 20, 2024
Willamette Valley Weather
Lane County Sheriff’s Search Warrant at Illegal Marijuana Grow Leads To Fentanyl and Firearms
LCSO Case #24-0420 – On Friday, March 15th, Lane County Sheriff’s deputies executed two search warrants related to a large-scale illegal marijuana grow operation. The illegal grow was located in the 37000 block of Highway 58, Pleasant Hill, and the owner lived in the 5100 block of Saratoga Lane, Eugene. More than 1,900 growing marijuana plants were located and destroyed, along with several hundred pounds of processed marijuana. Deputies seized more than 200 suspected fentanyl pills, psilocybin mushrooms, $40,000 dollars in currency, a truck, and large generator on a trailer that was related to the production of marijuana. Deputies also seized 42 firearms, 4 suppressors, and over 100,000 rounds of ammunition.
Two males were arrested, one at each location. They were identified as Liam Gibboney, 44, and Keoki Kaleikini, 46, both of Eugene. They were cited and released for Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana – Felony and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana. Numerous county code and watermaster violations were discovered, many of which directly impacted surrounding properties. Lane County Land Management will follow up on the violations.
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on this case by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations. This investigation would not have been possible without the ongoing grant funding from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission’s Illegal Marijuana Market Grant (IMMEG). This grant was created in 2018 by the Oregon Legislature to assist local law enforcement agencies and district attorneys’ offices in their efforts to address the illegal marijuana market in Oregon.
Sweet Home Firefighter Respond to a second brush fire
Sweet Home Fire and the Oregon Department of Forestry respond to a brush fire.
For the firefighters in Sweet Home, both at the Sweet Home Fire District and at the Oregon Department of Forestry, it’s been a busy couple of days. Despite being mid-March and the heavy rains for the last few months, they have responded to the second brush fire in the area. The latest fire happened on March 19, 2024 around 3:00 in the afternoon. This fire was dispatched as a large natural cover fire. Responding units learned that there was brush and trees on fire. Upon arrival crews found a resident applying water to the fire with a garden hose. The fire did burn some large fir trees, but mostly consumed brush and blackberry bushes. ODF estimated the size of the fire at .20 acers and was in close proximity to a home. The fire was quickly contained by firefighters. In total there were 13 firefighters on scene. No injuries were reported.
Local firefighters want to remind everyone that grass, brush and trees can dry out quickly. Please use cation while using any open flames or burning outside. Having two brush fires in mid-March is not normal for our area. Please assume all brush is dryer than you expect it to be and could burn.
Sweet Home Fire District offers home assessments to help homeowners improve defensible space from wildfires. Please contact Christian Whitfield, the District’s Community Wildfire Prevent Specialist for further information at (541) 367-5882.
One Transported Following Early Morning Crash in Eugene
Eugene, OR. Eugene Springfield Fire resounded to a single vehicle near NW Expressway and Chambers in Eugene at 2:00 AM Tuesday morning. One person self extricated from the vehicle prior to arrival and was transported with non-life threatening injuries.
Lane County Sheriff’s Deputies track down and arrest package thief with community’s help
On March 16th, a resident in the Cinnamon Avenue area of unincorporated Eugene noticed a male get out of a parked vehicle with no license plates, don a mask, and begin stealing packages from porches. The thief stole from not only the calling resident’s porch, but from neighboring porches as well. As deputies responded to the area, the vehicle drove away. Deputies quickly located the vehicle in the parking lot of Fred Meyers on Division Avenue. The vehicle was empty, so they relayed the suspect description to loss prevention staff. They observed the suspect, who was shoplifting, inside the store. About this time, deputies learned the suspect vehicle was also likely stolen out of Eugene.
As the suspect exited the store and walked to the pickup, he was met by deputies, K9 Bruno, and Eugene Police officers. Deputies located stolen mail and packages on the suspect and inside the vehicle, which was confirmed as stolen. The suspect was identified as Christopher Lagrua, 37, of Eugene. He was lodged at the Lane County Jail on charges of Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Theft in the 2nd Degree, Theft in the 3rd Degree, and Theft of Mail.
Deputies returned the stolen vehicle and re-delivered mail throughout the River Road area to a half-dozen rightful owners, many of whom would have had no idea their mail had been stolen. Thanks to the observant resident who called this theft in and provided a great description to our deputies! 03/16/24 – LCSO Case #24-1340
Eugene Police Community Service Office Offering Scam Prevention Classes
Stay sharp and scam free! EPD CSO is offering scam prevention classes – Get ready to outsmart those scammers!
Eugene Police Community Service Officer Colin Woolston has taken one too many scam reports. He says one was enough and has spent some time preparing a scam prevention training for EPD to offer for free to help safeguard residents from the pervasive and ever-changing world of scams.
With scams evolving and proliferating in the digital age, these educational sessions aim to empower Eugene residents and groups with the latest in intel on scams, and with essential knowledge and strategies to identify, avoid, and report scams effectively. CSO Woolston’s dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of Eugene’s residents underscores the commitment of local law enforcement to serve and protect the community.
The classes promise to equip attendees with the tools necessary to navigate the complex landscape of scams and frauds, fostering a stronger, more resilient Eugene community. To schedule a presentation by CSO Woolston, please email him at CWoolston@eugene-or.gov or call 541.682.5352.
Become a temporary election worker and help democracy thrive
The Lane County Elections Office is hiring temporary election workers to assist with the May 21, 2024 Primary Election.
“Temporary election workers are critical to the success of elections,” said County Clerk Dena Dawson. “We want to build a more diverse pool of people that is representative of our community. Retirees are always welcome, but so are students, stay-at-home parents, gig workers, and anyone who just wants to learn more about elections or earn a few bucks.”
Available positions include customer service, data entry, ballot processing, and ballot collection. Some positions require a few weeks of availability and others only require a few days, or even just one night. Lane County does not use volunteers to conduct elections; all temporary election worker positions are paid.
Temporary election workers are hired before each election cycle. Another round of hiring will begin in August for the November 5 Presidential Election.
Detailed job descriptions, instructions, and more details for applying can be found at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/elections under the “Election Temporary Jobs” section.
Lane County Elections holding student contest to create “I Voted” coloring page
Local students, kindergarten through college, are invited to create an “I Voted” coloring page for the Lane County Elections Office.
Four winning entries will be used to create a coloring page that will accompany ballots for the November 5, 2024 Presidential Election.
“I’m excited about this creative way for Lane County voters to celebrate voting,” said Lane County Clerk Dena Dawson. “I can’t wait to see what students come up with and I hope we blow up social media in November with the colorful versions voters create.”
There are four categories for student submissions:
- Category 1: Kindergarten–5th Grade
- Category 2: 6th Grade–8th Grade
- Category 3: 9th Grade–12th Grade
- Category 4: College or vocational school students
Submissions are due by April 1, 2024 and may be provided by email, mail or in-person. All entries must be submitted on the official entry form and must be signed by a parent or guardian if the entrant is under 18 years old.
Submissions must be original artwork and on a plain white background with black outlines so voters can color the artwork in November and share on social media using #LaneCountyVotes.
The entry form and more detail about how to submit artwork can be found at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/elections under the “I Voted Coloring Contest” section.
With Most Medical Renewals Complete, Oregon Among Top States Keeping People Covered
More than one million people are keeping their Oregon Health Plan benefits due to Oregon’s efforts to expand coverage options
SALEM, Ore. — With more than 88 percent of the state’s 1.5 million renewals complete, more than 4 out of 5 Oregonians are keeping their Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or other Medicaid benefits.
During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), the federal government allowed states to keep people on Medicaid benefits. This ended when the pandemic emergency ended, and since April 2023, Oregon has been making sure everyone on OHP is still eligible.
At this point in the PHE unwinding process, most of the initially planned 10 waves of renewals are complete.
- Under 4,800 members, about 0.3 percent, still need to respond to renewals from those initial waves.
- About 2.9 percent of members have responded to their renewal but are awaiting state action on the response.
- The remaining renewals, about 8.6 percent of the total, will occur over the summer.
Oregon’s 82.6 percent renewal rate continues to one of the three highest in a national comparison of state renewal rates by KFF, a nonpartisan health policy organization. KFF analysis also shows Oregon also has saved more people from unnecessary renewal paperwork than any other state via the automated renewal process. Oregon’s high renewal rates are also due to proactive efforts by the state to keep people covered, including a structured renewal schedule, extended response timelines, and addingthe upcoming OHP Bridge program for adults with higher incomes.
Members who have not received a renewal yet should:
- Keep their address and contact information up to date.
- Check their mail or ONE Online account for their renewal letter.
- Do what the renewal letter asks as soon as possible.
Anyone concerned they missed their letter should get help with their renewal via one of the ways to find help listed below. Members who did not respond to renewals can still re-open their case three months after it closes if they are still eligible, and can reapply at any time.
Although most people are keeping coverage, approximately 224,000 people will lose or have reduced OHP benefits and need to consider other coverage options.
- People who do not have coverage through an employer or Medicare may be able to enroll through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace and get financial help. Most people who enroll through HealthCare.gov qualify for this help.
- The Marketplace is sending information to people who are no longer eligible for OHP benefits, advising of other potential coverage options.
- People who have recently lost OHP benefits can enroll anytime until July 31, 2024, or within 60 days of their benefits ending.
- For more information and ways to get help signing up for Marketplace, Medicare, or employer coverage, see “What to do if OHP is ending” below.
Extended unwinding schedule
On February 13, 2024, the federal government approved a revised plan for Oregon’s remaining 125,000 renewals.
Many of these renewals were affected by a federal request for more than 30 states to review automated renewal processes, or restorations of some Oregon Supplemental Income Program Medical (OSIPM) benefits. A May 2024 update to Oregon’s automated renewal process will enable Oregon to use the new process for the remaining renewals.
Renewal letters will be sent to members in four waves between June and September. Members will still receive 90 days to respond, and 60 days’ advance notice before any termination or reduction in benefits. This means the final responses would be due in December 2024, and the final closures will happen in February 2025.
Data about these renewals now appear again in the Medical Redeterminations Dashboard.
March OHP renewal data
As of March 15, 2024, 1,283,356 people have completed the renewal process. This represents 88.2 percent of all OHP and Medicaid members.
- 1,059,425 people (82.6 percent) were renewed and kept their benefits.
- 208,629 people (16.3 percent) were found ineligible.
- 15,032 people (1.2 percent) had a reduction in their benefits. Most of these members lost full OHP but were able to continue Medicare Savings Programs that help pay their Medicare costs.
Find help renewing your benefits
- Learn more about how to renew your Oregon Health Plan medical coverage.
- Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075. All relay calls are accepted, and help is available in multiple languages. Wait times are lowest between 7 and 8 a.m.
- Visit or call a local Oregon Department of Human Services office. People can find their local office at https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/Pages/office-finder.aspx.
- Visit a community partner for free, in-person help. To find one near you visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp(English) or orhim.info/ayuda(Spanish).
The large number of OHP renewals, along with renewals of long-term services and supports, may cause greater wait times, delays, and possible interruptions to people’s OHP benefits. The fastest way members can provide an update is by going to benefits.oregon.gov and logging into their ONE Online account.
What to do if your OHP is ending:
- First, review the case summary in your letter to make sure the information used to make the decision was correct. If that information has changed, notify the state. You can call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075 (toll-free, all relay calls accepted) or find other options to connect at benefits.oregon.gov. If the information on file for you is correct and you disagree with the decision, you can request a hearing. Learn more about hearings.
- Explore options through an employer. If you, your spouse, or a parent are working, you may be eligible for health coverage through that employer. Talk to your manager or Human Resources department to see if you qualify. You will have a special enrollment period to enroll mid-year due to loss of OHP benefits.
- If you have or are eligible for Medicare: For help understanding and choosing the right Medicare options, go to OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to find an insurance agent or a counselor at the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program (SHIBA). You can also call SHIBA at 800-722-4134.
If you need to sign up for Medicare for the first time, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213 to enroll by phone or find a local office. You can also enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.
- Nearly 80 percent of Oregonians qualify for financial help through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop to answer a few quick questions, find out how much you can save and find out how much coverage may cost you. You can also call the Marketplace Transition Help Center at 833-699-6850 (toll-free, all relay calls accepted).
- Need free local help finding other coverage? Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to find professional help near you.
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) are committed to transparency and will continue to send monthly information about medical coverage among Oregonians as the agencies continue to track the programs. Check our ONE Eligibility Operations Dashboards for more frequent updates on medical renewal data and wait times for callers to the ONE Customer Service Center.
DCSO and SAR Continue Efforts to Locate Glide Teacher Rachel Merchant-Ly
𝐈𝐃𝐋𝐄𝐘𝐋𝐃 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊, 𝐎𝐫𝐞. – Search and Rescue efforts continue in the search for Rachel Merchant-Ly, a Glide Elementary kindergarten teacher whose vehicle was found crashed in the North Umpqua River.
Merchant-Ly was reported missing on Thursday, February 29th when she didn’t arrive at school. A Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy located signs of a motor vehicle crash near milepost 41 on Highway 138E.
On Friday, March 1, 2024, Merchant-Ly’s vehicle was recovered from the North Umpqua River, but she was not found inside.
Since that time, nearly 300 hours volunteer hours of searching has taken place. Douglas County Search and Rescue has been using various methods of searching to include drone, ground and K9. The Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol has conducted water searches as well. Volunteers have searched along the riverbank from the crash site to Idleyld Park Trading Post; approximately 21 miles.
“We all want to find Mrs. Merchant-Ly and return her to her family,” Sheriff John Hanlin said. “Our deputies are in constant communication with her family and providing them with updates as to our efforts. We will continue searching and using all means necessary to accomplish our mission,” Hanlin added.
In addition to the efforts of DCSO and Search and Rescue volunteers, several community members have been actively looking for Merchant-Ly.
“We are aware of rafting guides and groups of rafters who have been launching all in an attempt to assist in finding her. We have also been contacting community members who are walking along the North Umpqua Trail and the highway,” Hanlin said. “As always this community steps forward to care for each other.”
As the weather turns more springlike, the Sheriff’s Office encourages those recreating around the area to be aware Merchant-Ly is still missing and to report anything which may assist in concluding this missing person case.
Biden administration awards Intel $8.5B to expand US chip manufacturing
Oregon’s premier chip manufacturer, Intel, has been awarded up to $8.5 billion by the Biden administration to expand its investments in chipmaking plants in the U.S.
Over the next five years, Intel estimates to create over 10,000 manufacturing jobs and nearly 20,000 construction jobs in Oregon, Arizona, New Mexico and Ohio.
The funding is part of the CHIPS and Science Act, $280 billion package signed into law in 2022, which is aimed at building up the U.S. semiconductor industry.
The agreement, a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT), includes approximately $50 million in dedicated funding to develop Intel’s semiconductor and construction workforce. Along with requirements for Intel to provide affordable, accessible childcare for its workers across its facilities.
In Oregon, the CHIPS funding would go to expanding and modernizing Intel’s innovation hub in Hillsboro. In 2022, Intel spent more than $4 billion with more than 500 suppliers across Oregon, according the news release. The added investment would support several thousand manufacturing and construction jobs. (SOURCE)
One-time adjustment of student loans could lead to forgiveness
Salem – The U.S. Department of Education has begun what it describes as a one-time payment count adjustment for certain federal student loans toward the income-driven repayment and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) programs. This could lead to borrowers potentially having their loans forgiven if they consolidate commercially owned Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) or Perkins Loans into a federal Direct Loan by April 30, 2024.
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) issued a bulletin on this topic in February. The adjustment will apply to Direct Loans and government-owned FFEL borrowers who are working toward forgiveness via their payment plan, or PSLF. Covered loans that have been in repayment for at least 20 years (for undergraduate loans), or 25 years (for graduate loans) will be forgiven, and all covered loans will have their payment counts updated toward those goals. Although commercially owned FFELs and Perkins Loans are not themselves covered by the one-time adjustment, borrowers who consolidate such loans into federal Direct Loans by April 30, 2024, will receive the full benefits of the adjustment.
“We want to ensure that the current servicers are aware of the one-time account adjustment and pertinent deadlines,” said Lane Thompson, Oregon’s student loan ombuds. “Most borrowers will not need to take action in order to benefit from the one-time adjustment. However, some loan types are not owned by the Department of Education and need to be consolidated (FFEL, Perkins) in order to become eligible.”
Borrowers will need to visit the student loan consolidation webpage on studentaid.gov to consolidate into Direct Loans by April 30, 2024.
Anyone with questions or concerns can contact Thompson at .bankingproducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.bankingproducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov or 971-374-3619.
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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and www.dcbs.oregon.gov.
Record $74.2 million going to Oregon public schools from the Common School Fund in 2024
Fund that’s supported education since statehood sends highest-ever amount to schools
SALEM, Ore. – Oregon’s K-12 public schools will receive a record $74.2 million from the Common School Fund in 2024, state officials announced today.
Every one of Oregon’s 197 public school districts receives money from the Common School Fund every year. How much each district receives depends on the number of students served.
The average 2024 distribution is approximately $376,000. Astoria School District will receive about $230,000. Bend La-Pine Schools will receive $2.3 million. Klamath Falls City Schools will receive nearly $344,000. See how much every Oregon school district will receive from the Common School Fund in 2024.
Portland Public Schools, serving the most students in the state, will receive $6.4 million this year.
“The Common School Fund consistently contributes critical funding for Oregon classrooms,” said Michael Hisler, teacher at Roosevelt High School in North Portland. “Every district gets those dollars, which can be used to support specific needs of my students as well as students across the state.”
The Common School Fund has supported Oregon schools since statehood, when the federal government granted our new state nearly 3.4 million acres “for the use of schools.” The State Land Board was established to oversee these school lands, which generate revenue for the Fund.
Now valued at $2.3 billion, the Common School Fund is invested by the State Treasurer and the Oregon Investment Council. The Fund earned an average 5.4 percent rate of return over the three-year period ending in December 2023.
“We’re incredibly pleased with the Common School Fund’s performance in recent years under Treasury’s management. These sustained returns will allow us to send a record-setting amount to Oregon public schools,” said State Treasurer Tobias Read. “We look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on students across the state, from increased resources in the classroom to facility improvements.”
Annually, 3.5 percent of the Fund is distributed to schools. The 2024 distribution of $74.2 million, the highest-ever distribution, is $2 million more than the 2023 distribution of $72.2 million and $10 million more than the 2022 distribution of $64.2 million.
Today, approximately 681,000 acres of school lands in all 36 Oregon counties are managed by the Department of State Lands on behalf of the State Land Board. Ranchers and farmers, local governments, Tribes, businesses, and more work with DSL to lease and buy lands, plan for future community needs, and keep lands healthy.
“Since 1859, Oregon students have counted on school lands and the Common School Fund as a reliable revenue source,” said DSL Director Vicki L. Walker. “DSL’s hardworking land management team is incredibly innovative and effective in protecting that legacy.”
DSL is currently seeking public input on the plan that will guide management of school lands for the next 10 years. The comment period is open through April 3, 2024.
About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade and State Treasurer Tobias Read. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting waterways and wetlands for their many benefits.
Hop Aboard the Easter Bunny Express!
Join us for a 45-minute train ride featuring the Easter bunny! Historic passenger cars pulled by a diesel locomotive offer comfortable seating and spectacular views of the city, river and wildlife.
Kids of all ages will enjoy an Easter scavenger hunt and other fun activities. And the Easter bunny will be onboard to greet everyone!
Snacks and adult & kid friendly beverages will be available for purchase.
Saturday, March 30 @ 1:00pm, 2:30 and 4:00pm. Adults $20, Kids 3-12 $15; 2 and Under Ride Free on Lap
For tickets and more info, visit www.orhf.org/saturday-train-rides/
Troutdale man found guilty of murder in 1980 cold case of college student after DNA link
A man living in Troutdale has been found guilty of first degree murder in the death of Barbara Tucker in 1980 near Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham.
Plympton, 58, is facing a number of charges including murder and rape.
A man living in Troutdale has been found guilty in the 1980 cold case murder of 19-year-old college student after DNA from a piece of chewing gum linked him to the crime.
Multnomah County Circuit Judge Amy Baggio on Friday found Robert Plympton, 60, guilty of first degree murder in the death of Barbara Tucker, the Multnomah County District Attorney’s (DA) Office said.
Tucker was sexually assaulted and beaten to death the night of Jan. 15, 1980, near a parking lot at Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham. Witnesses reported seeing her run onto Northwest Kane Drive from the woods, reportedly waving at someone or trying to get someone’s attention, but nobody stopped.
A witness saw a man emerge from the woods and lead Tucker back to campus. Her body was found the next morning between Kane Drive and a school parking lot.
“The community was gripped in fear as to who was the suspect, what happened, why, a lot of unanswered questions,” said Detective Aaron Turnage of the Gresham Police Department when Plympton appeared in court after his arrest. “Gresham was a quiet town.”
In 2000, a DNA profile of the suspect was created from samples taken during Tucker’s autopsy. A genealogist with Parabon Nanolabs using DNA technology then identified Plympton as likely linked to the DNA in the case a year later.
Detectives with the Gresham Police Department began conducting surveillance and collected a piece of chewing gum he had spit onto the ground, the DA’s Office said.
Police arrested Plympton after the Oregon State Police Crime Lab determined the DNA profile developed from the gum matched the DNA profile developed from swabs taken from Tucker’s body.
Plympton remains in custody in Multnomah County. He is scheduled to be sentenced in June. (SOURCE)
Prineville Paid Out Separation Agreements for Top Police While Under Investigation
The Prineville police chief who was accused of making a woman officer wash patrol cars as punishment for seeking light duty due to an injury got more than $300,000 in severance to resign while under investigation and his captain got close to $200,000.
The city still faces a lawsuit over the accusation. The city fought to keep the separation agreements secret even after the Crook County district attorney ordered their release, but then capitulated Monday after The Oregonian hired a lawyer to press the news organization’s public records request.
The city paid Seymour a total of $331,212.15 to resign — $250,125 as severance pay plus $81,212.15 for accrued sick and vacation time, according to the agreement signed Jan. 12. The city also allowed Seymour, who started as chief on July 1, 2022, to weigh in on any statement the city released regarding his resignation.
Separately, the city paid $180,461.96 to Capt. Robert Gray — $150,937.55 in severance plus $29,524.41 for accrued sick and vacation time. As in Seymour’s agreement, Gray also was allowed to work out a “mutually agreed-upon media statement” regarding his resignation.
Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue solves a 20-year-old problem with an evening of high angle training
Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue is always training. Last week, they were able to train and help out our Oregon State Parks at the same time! About 20 volunteers practiced rigging and operating our high and steep angle rescue systems at Heceta Head Lighthouse…to “rescue” a picnic table on the cliff below that has been an eyesore for 20 years.
The rope rescue systems can be deployed quickly almost anywhere by just a few trained personnel, and have been used to rescue many injured swimmers and hikers. But a picnic table was a first! The unique “patient” presented an excellent challenge for our problem solving and adaptability. The training provided as close to a real-world scenario as it could get – and a perfect view.
Nearly every week, Sheriff’s Search & Rescue volunteers assist our residents in all types of environments. Learn more about our Search & Rescue program at www.lanecounty.org/government/county_departments/sheriff_s_office/volunteers/search_and_rescue.
Voters sue to keep Rep. Christine Goodwin from running for Oregon Senate
The lawsuit, filed Friday in Josephine County Circuit Court, alleges that Goodwin’s listed address is actually a wine tasting room
A group of Josephine County voters are suing to keep Rep. Christine Goodwin from running for the state Senate, alleging that she doesn’t live in the district she wants to represent and that the address she lists on campaign paperwork is actually a vineyard’s tasting room.
Goodwin, R-Canyonville, has served in the state House since 2021, when she was appointed to replace state Rep. Gary Leif after his death. She’s running for the Senate district now represented by Art Robinson, one of 10 Republican senators barred from running for reelection because they participated in a six-week walkout in 2023, after Oregon voters passed a constitutional amendment barring lawmakers with 10 or more unexcused absences from serving another term.
Robinson’s son Noah is also running in the Republican primary. The 2nd Senate District has nearly twice as many registered Republicans as Democrats, so the winner of the Republican primary is all but certain to represent the district in Salem.
The lawsuit was filed Friday in Josephine County Circuit Court against Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade by Josephine County Commissioner John West and Grants Pass residents Edgar Pelfrey, Winnie Pelfrey, Victoria Marshall and Cathy Millard. They allege that Goodwin lives in Myrtle Creek, not in her current House District or the Senate District she hopes to represent. The lawsuit, first reported by the conservative southern Oregon publication the Oregon Eagle, further alleges that the home Goodwin lists on her candidate paperwork is actually the tasting room of Falk Estate Vineyards.
The complaint seeks to remove Goodwin from her current position in the House and keep her off the May 21 primary ballot.
“Irreparable injury will occur if Christine Goodwin’s name is placed on the ballot for the May 21 election because votes for other candidates will be diluted by votes for Christine Goodwin, who is not qualified to represent Senate District 2,” the plaintiffs’ attorney Stephen Joncus wrote in a motion for a preliminary injunction. “The primary campaign would also unnecessarily cost her competitor money that could be reserved for the general election, thus weakening the Republican nominee for Senate District 2. Christine Goodwin could conceivably win the nomination for Senate District 2, a seat that she is not qualified to hold, leaving Republicans without a candidate for the Senate District 2 seat.”
Goodwin, a retired teacher and former Douglas County commissioner, flatly denied the allegations, telling the Capital Chronicle that no vineyard or tasting room existed and that she lives in a house on the Falk ranch in Canyonville.
“This baseless attack from Noah Robinson’s minions, led by John West, does not faze me,” she added. “I trust the voters of southern Oregon to elect me to the Senate like they have to the House – with overwhelming support.”
Her November filing with the Secretary of State’s Office lists her home and mailing address in Canyonville.
West told the Capital Chronicle he drove by that address on Sunday and spoke to someone who told him Goodwin was in Salem and has a studio on the Falk property. He said he finds it hard to believe Goodwin lives there instead of in the Myrtle Creek home, which he described as a $1 million house with a swimming pool.
‘A phony address’
“For some reason, she don’t want to run in her own district,” West said. “She either didn’t think she could win or whatever the reason was, but she thought, ‘Well, they won’t know. They won’t know that I actually don’t live in my district. I’ll put down a phony address, and the Secretary of State won’t check it,’ and voila, we didn’t. Nobody thought anything for the first two years she was state rep.”
Documents attached to the lawsuit include Douglas County property tax records showing that Christine and Lynn Goodwin have owned a home in Myrtle Creek since 1991, as well as her voter history that shows she updated her residential address to the Canyonville home in December 2021. Candidates for legislative office typically have to prove they’ve lived in a district for at least one year prior to the general election, but candidates running in 2022 only had to prove residency by Jan. 1, 2022, because of redistricting in 2021.
The Myrtle Creek home is in the 1st Senate District and 2nd House District, represented by Sen. David Brock Smith, R-Port Orford, and Rep. Virgle Osborne, R-Roseburg. The Canyonville address is in the 2nd Senate District and 4th House District, represented by Art Robinson and Goodwin.
The lawsuit also includes a copy of a business registration in Goodwin’s name from July 6, 2022 that lists her address as the home in Myrtle Creek. Goodwin Properties Inc. dissolved in September 2023, according to state business records.
Goodwin’s first campaign finance account, which was active for just over one week in November 2021, listed the Myrtle Creek home as her address. Since then, she’s used the Canyonville address.
Laura Kerns, a spokeswoman for Griffin-Valade, said the Secretary of State’s Office had no comment on the lawsuit. Kerns added that the office received an anonymous letter about Goodwin’s residency in December, but is barred by state law from investigating anonymous complaints.
The office has a mixed record when it comes to investigating candidates’ residency. Days before the March 12 filing deadline, the Secretary of State’s Elections Division disqualified Republican Senate hopeful Shannon Monihan, who owns a condo in the 28th Senate District outside Bend and rents an apartment in the 27th Senate District, where she hoped to run to replace disqualified Senate Minority Leader Tim Knopp, R-Bend.
In instances in which candidates maintain two or more homes, the Secretary of State’s Office determines which one counts for residency purposes by looking at where a candidate votes, pays taxes, registers licenses and works, rather than statements about the area a candidate considers home, election officials told Monihan in a letter about her disqualification.
Last year, the office declined to investigate a complaint about state Rep. Hai Pham, D-Hillsboro, who insisted that he lived with his parents in a three-bedroom home in the 36th House District rather than the $1.3-million, five-bedroom home where his wife and young son resided in the 31st House District. Pham still owns the home in the 31st House District but has since bought a new home in the 36th District, county property tax records show. (SOURCE)
OHA has released an online dashboard that will chronicle the ongoing progress from more than $230 million in behavioral health investments
SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has released a supplemental online dashboard that will chronicle the ongoing progress from more than $230 million in behavioral health investments.
The emerging capacity was funded through legislation in 2021, that is projected to create more than 1,000 behavioral health housing units and residential treatment beds by the end of 2025.
OHA distributed these funds to providers over the past two years to bolster behavioral health housing and residential treatment throughout the state.
This dashboard spotlights the two recent major behavioral health housing funding streams.
It is an offshoot of the Behavioral Housing and Treatment dashboard that was unveiled last November.
When completed, the projects will increase the state’s behavioral health housing capacity by about 20 percent.
The dashboard will track two separate funding streams:
- Approximately $100 million in grants awarded to every Oregon county. And approximately $130 million awarded to statewide social service providers.
- Together those revenues will yield nearly 500 residential treatment beds and more than 550 behavioral health housing units.
Residential treatment beds are licensed by the state and are round the clock services and supports for people with chronic behavioral health challenges. Behavioral health housing units are not licensed by the state and serve as transitional settings from people experiencing homelessness to stable housing.
The new supplemental dashboard details spending by funding source and by county, along with timelines, projected outcomes and populations being served.
The earlier dashboard includes the full portfolio of behavioral housing investments. Those include the investments highlighted in the new dashboard, along with new funding sources such as Measure 110, and historical investments.
Timelines for such projects can typically take years to complete because of the complexities of acquiring sites, building expenses and other construction-related factors. The calculations include development costs such as purchasing real estate, facility renovations, not operating revenues.
OHCS to launch first phase of the Homeowner Assistance and Reconstruction Program on March 25th
Call center and local partners will be available to help 2020 Labor Day Disaster survivors with application process
SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is going to launch the intake phase of the Homeowner Assistance and Reconstruction Program (HARP) for survivors of the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds on March 25. Phase 1 of HARP will help low- and moderate-income homeowners who still need assistance to repair, rebuild, or replace their homes.
Beginning on March 25, applicants can fill out an Eligibility Questionnaire on the re.oregon.gov website where eligibility requirements are listed. OHCS will notify applicants who are eligible to apply for the first phase of HARP. Those who may not be eligible during this first phase may qualify in later phases if there are still funds available.
“We are excited to announce this first step in the process to get survivors the help they need to fix existing homes or get new ones,” said Alex Campbell, chief external affairs officer of the Disaster Recovery and Resilience Division at OHCS. “We have been working with local partners to make resources available that we hope will make the application process easier for survivors.”
OHCS opened a call center, which is ready to take questions. Applicants can call or text 1-877-510-6800 or 541-250-0938. They can also email t@oregon.org“>housingsupport@oregon.org. Additionally, OHCS is partnering with community-based organizations to provide in-person support. A full list of these partners is on the re.oregon.gov website.
Survivors can help make the process as smooth as possible by making sure they have the correct documents on hand when they are invited to apply. No documents are needed to complete the Eligibility Questionnaire.
HARP applicants need the following:
- Personal identification such as a photo ID or driver’s license (U.S. citizenship is not required.)
- Proof applicant is the homeowner, and the damaged home was their primary residence
- Records of damages from the 2020 Labor Day Disasters
- Proof of the applicant’s current income
- Receipts of recovery expenses for repair, replacement, or construction
- Property tax and mortgage information, if applicable
- Record of any disaster assistance payments, loans, or insurance benefits received
- Power of attorney, if applicable
HARP 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). To stay up to date on ReOregon programs in various stages of development, survivors can sign up for email updates and visit re.oregon.gov.
About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) – OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.
Cherry blossoms illuminated at State Capitol State Park March 16-April 6
Salem, OR—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will host “Yozakura,” night viewing of the Akebono cherry blossoms, March 16 through April 6 in the North Mall at State Capitol State Park.
Parks staff will illuminate the cherry blossoms with Japanese lanterns and lights nightly 6-9 p.m. Visitors may bring blankets, camping chairs or an evening picnic to enjoy under the canopy of the illuminated trees.
The lanterns and lights create a striking and beautiful scene inside the park at night.
The Focal Point Photography Club of Dallas will be in the park March 23 at 7 p.m. to help photographers capture the perfect shot of the illuminated blossoms. SamaZama, a koto and cello duo, will perform in the park March 30 at 7 p.m. The duo will also perform March 16 as part of the Cherry Blossom Day, https://oregoncapitol.com/event/cherry-blossom-day… , sponsored by the Oregon State Capitol Foundation and the City of Salem.
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will livestream the cherry blossoms on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OregonParks beginning March 16 during the day and evening through April 6.
Park staff ask that tree limbs and blossoms are left as is so everyone can view them throughout the bloom. Alcohol is not allowed in State Capitol State Park (without permits) and the park closes at 10 p.m.
For more information on events at the Capitol, call Visitor Services at 503-986-1388 or visit the events page, https://oregoncapitol.com/events/ .
Spring Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon coast for spring break 2024
OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Spring Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, March 23 through Sunday, March 31.
Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast to help visitors spot whales and their calves and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily March 23-31. The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast.
The spring event is three days longer than last year and might include better odds of seeing gray whales on their journey home from the calving lagoons in Mexico in light of today’s announcement from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
NOAA announced the end of an Unusual Mortality Event, a significant die-off of the gray whale population, that had affected the marine mammals since 2019.
“The latest counts indicate that the gray whale population has likely turned the corner and is beginning to recover. It’s a perfect time for people to see them as they swim north with new calves to feed,” said Michael Milstein, public affairs officer with NOAA Fisheries.
Researchers counted about 412 calves last year, which was almost double the number from the year before. That helped signal an end to the Unusual Mortality Event and a likely turnaround in numbers as the species begins to rebound.
An estimated 14,500 gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores from late winter through June as part of their annual migration back to Alaska.
“Spring is a great time for whale watching because the gray whales are usually closer to shore on their return trip, typically around a mile or so out, and the weather can be better for viewing. But don’t forget your rain gear just in case,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.
A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online on the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching
The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 23-31. 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 the 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 Spring Whale Watch on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch24.
Respect nesting areas to protect threatened snowy plover March 15 – Sept. 15
OREGON COAST, OR – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Siuslaw National Forest remind visitors that it is plover nesting season on the Oregon coast March 15 to Sept. 15 — visitors can help recovery efforts for the threatened western snowy plover by observing recreation restrictions in designated plover areas.
Sensitive plover nesting areas will be roped off or identified by signs with rules and limits, such as staying on the wet sand, to help protect the small shorebirds and their exposed nests during this crucial period.
Recreation restrictions occur in designated plover management areas: stretches of beach along the coastline where plovers nest or might nest. These areas combined make up about 40 miles of Oregon’s 362 miles of shoreline.
Seasonal recreation restrictions have helped protect these small birds that nest on open sand. Nests, and especially chicks, are well-camouflaged. During the nesting season, human disturbances can flush adult plovers away from their nests as they attempt to defend their young. Left alone too long, or too often, eggs or chicks can die from exposure, predators or people.
Reminders for recreation on designated plover beaches March 15-Sept. 15:
*The following are not permitted: dogs (even on a leash), driving a vehicle, riding a bicycle, camping, burning wood, flying kites or operating drones.
*Foot and equestrian traffic is permitted below the high-tide line on wet, packed sand.
*Respect signs and barriers to protect nesting habitat.
“We’re making great strides in reversing the decline of this species,” said Cindy Burns, Siuslaw National Forest wildlife biologist. “But it takes all of us, so we urge people to do their part to understand nesting season rules and to share the beach this spring and summer.”
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed western snowy plovers as a threatened species in 1993, when officials counted only 45 breeding adults. The numbers of breeding adults have steadily increased since then due to ongoing efforts. Officials counted 433 during the breeding season survey in 2023.
“We appreciate visitors’ support in keeping these shorebirds safe in the combined 40 miles of protected area along the coast. We invite visitors to enjoy permitted recreation in those areas or to recreate without seasonal restrictions on the hundreds of miles of beaches not designated as plover nesting areas,” said Laurel Hillmann, ocean shore specialist for Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
More information on the snowy plover, including detailed maps of nesting sites, can be found on the Oregon State Parks website https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/pcb/pages/pcb-plovers…. and on the Siuslaw National Forest website https://t.ly/AKPAN
Visitors to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area can review Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) maps at its website to identify unrestricted recreation areas and information on riding motor vehicles on the sand: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/siuslaw/recreation…
New plover activity — The increase in plover numbers may result in nesting occurring in new or historical nesting sites. For example, visitors to Sand Lake Recreation Area may see small roped off areas near the lake’s inlet to protect active nests, and may encounter plovers on the beach. Beachgoers are encouraged to protect these birds by restricting recreation activities to wet sand areas, avoiding roped off nesting areas, packing all trash out and keeping dogs on leash.
Background on plover protections — Several land managers oversee beach activity for plover protection, primarily the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).
Habitat loss from invasive plants — as well as human disturbances, including litter and discarded food scraps that attract predators — have contributed to the birds’ decline. The Oregon Dunes Restoration Collaborative, http://www.saveoregondunes.org/ , is working with land managers on a restoration strategy and to raise public awareness about the need to restore the dunes ecosystem for western snowy plovers, rare plants and animals and the unique recreation opportunities offered here.
Oregon to Honor Fallen Law Enforcement Officers May 7th, 2024
Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 7 at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.
The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.
The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations.
SOLVE invites volunteers to register for their annual Earth Day celebration: The Oregon Spring Cleanup
Portland, Ore., March 12, 2024 – From April 13 to April 22, families, community members, neighborhood associations, and environmental enthusiasts are invited to engage in a signature event in SOLVE’s annual calendar: The Oregon Spring Cleanup, presented by Portland General Electric. Registration for this environmentally conscious event series is now open.
Participants are invited to join SOLVE, event leaders, and partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a collective celebration of Earth Day. The SOLVE calendar showcases a variety of events throughout Oregon and SW Washington between April 13 and April 22, with the majority of events culminating on April 20. Diverse initiatives address specific environmental needs with opportunities ranging from beach cleanups to neighborhood and city litter pickups. Further activities include restoring natural habitats through native tree and shrub plantings, weed pulls, and mulching projects. Each project contributes to the enhancement of our shared surroundings.
With a variety of projects already online, the Oregon Spring Cleanup invites enthusiastic volunteers to contribute to a cleaner, greener, and brighter planet. Interested individuals can browse the map of projects to find events near them, learn about each opportunity, and sign up for a meaningful contribution to the environment. Participating in the Oregon Spring Cleanup provides an excellent opportunity to bond with family members, coworkers, and neighbors, while collectively contributing to preserving some of Oregon’s most stunning locations.
As SOLVE anticipates another successful event, valued partner Portland General Electric, shares their commitment to the cause: ” PGE proudly supports SOLVE’s efforts to make our communities cleaner and greener. In 2023, our employees and their families volunteered with SOLVE for more than 220 hours. We’re excited to join community members again this Earth Day to help improve our beautiful state.” said Kristen Sheeran, Senior Director of Policy Planning and Sustainability, Portland General Electric.
For those inspired to host an event, SOLVE is still accepting new volunteer-led projects. The sooner projects are submitted, the faster SOLVE can care for the rest. Event leaders receive full support, including free supplies, access to project funding, disposal assistance, and help with volunteer recruitment.
For more information, please visit solveoregon.org/oregon-spring and be part of the collective effort to create a cleaner, greener planet.
Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, Trimet, and PepsiCo.
About SOLVE – SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
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
