The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Monday, November 18, 2024
Willamette Valley Weather
Get Prepared for Winter Weather
A winter storm hit Southern Oregon last week, bringing snow, ice, rain and quickly changing road conditions. Siskiyou Summit saw its first major snowfall of the season, catching many drivers off guard.
In response, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding drivers of the importance of preparing for winter weather. The fast-moving storm surprised a lot of drivers This is a reminder that winter weather can change quickly, and road conditions can go from clear to hazardous in a matter of minutes.
ODOT urges drivers to follow several key tips to stay safe:
- Turn on your windshield wipers and headlights
- Slow down and avoid cruise control
- Increase your stopping distance and steer clear of standing water
- Carry chains and check road conditions before traveling
using TripCheck.com or by calling 511. - Pack an emergency kit with a flashlight, phone charger, warm clothes, food, and water in case you get
stuck. - Be aware of the dangers of black ice, which can be even more hazardous than snow.
- Drivers should always be prepared for sudden weather changes—especially in higher elevations.
Multiple winter storm warnings have been issued across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana, urging people to avoid travel due to heavy snow expected in these states. In Oregon, warnings cover various counties, including portions of highways 97, 58, 230, 138, 62, 140, and 66. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Medford and Portland emphasized the potential for very difficult driving conditions and advised extreme caution if travel is necessary.
Bomb Cyclone Headed Toward the West Coast
An intense mid-latitude cyclone is expected to take aim at the West Coast of the United States early this week, ushering a strong atmospheric river into Oregon and California. This low pressure system is likely to go through bombogenesis, or “bomb out,” a term reserved for low pressure systems that intensify rapidly, typically with a pressure drop of at least 24mb in 24 hours. This definition changes based on latitude.
The storm system headed toward the West Tuesday through Thursday will have potential to more than double that pressure drop, with forecast models showing a drop of 50-60mb in less than a day, starting at over 1000 mb Monday night, possibly dropping below 950 mb by Tuesday night. This intense storm system is expected to bring major impacts to areas of the Northwest and northern California with heavy rain, strong winds, and big swells.
As the low pressure system develops, it will tap into a stream of sub-tropical moisture, creating what’s known as an atmospheric river. These systems can create extreme precipitation and gusty winds. Rainfall is expected to be very heavy from Tuesday through Thursday, with rainfall totals possibly surpassing a foot or more in Southern Oregon and Northern California. Flooding in these areas is likely, including river flooding and flash flooding. (SOURCE)
Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue Has Busy Week of Rescues and Assists
With the change in weather, daylight savings, and fall activities, Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue volunteers have responded to numerous calls over the past week.
On November 7th, SAR assisted Eugene Police Department with an elderly patient who had walked away from their residence. The patient was part of Project Lifesaver, which allowed SAR personnel to track the patient into downtown Eugene and locate them.
Later that day, SAR volunteers rescued a hiker on Mt. Pisgah who had become disoriented, gone off trail, and then became stuck in thick brush. SAR located the hiker, extricated them from the brush, and guided them back to the parking lot.
On November 9th, SAR assisted deputies with locating an adult foster care patient who walked away from a residence in the River Road area.
On November 10th, SAR responded to Diamond Creek Falls for two hikers who became lost in the snow. SAR volunteers located the hikers and guided them back to their vehicle at the trailhead.
On November 11th, SAR conducted a search and thankfully rescue of a hunter with medical issues in the Hills Creek Reservoir area. Volunteers returned to search for the hunter’s missing dog, which has now been found.
On November 12th, SAR assisted Oakridge Fire Department with rescuing a patient at McCredie Hot Springs.
On November 14th, SAR searched for a missing mushroom picker in the Lost Creek area. The subject was quickly located and guided out.
While deputies also responded to some of these calls, most of the SAR personnel who responded were volunteers. Thank you for your selfless dedication to the people of Lane County! Learn more about our Search & Rescue program at http://www.lanecounty.org/…/volunteers/search_and_rescue
Eugene/Springfield Seeks Public Input on 2025 Consolidated Housing and Community Plan
The City of Eugene is soliciting feedback from the public on its draft Eugene-Springfield 2025 Consolidated Plan, a roadmap for housing and community development in the upcoming year.
Residents have from November 1st until December 6, at precisely 5:00 pm to express their opinions and provide input on the proposed strategies and outcomes that will shape their community’s future.
A written public comment period on the draft Eugene-Springfield 2025 Consolidated Plan is open November 1st through 5:00 pm on December 6, 2024. Comments may be submitted online or to Genevieve Middleton, Affordable Housing Policy & Planning Manager, City of Eugene, 99 W 10th Ave. Suite 240, Eugene, OR 97401. The next Eugene-Springfield Consolidated Plan Advisory Committee meeting and Public Hearing regarding the draft strategic goals and outcomes will be held December 10, 2024, at 2:00 pm. Additional information about the meeting and the draft Consolidated Plan can be found on the website: http://eugene-or.gov/hudconplan2025.
According to the City of Eugene’s announcement, the Consolidated Plan is a critical tool that shapes how federal funding will be allocated toward housing, and community development projects.
Public contributions at this stage are crucial, as they can influence how the city targets its efforts to tackle issues such as affordable housing, homelessness, and community services that touch the lives of many citizens.
Cottage Grove fire captain charged for misconduct, attempting to lure a child
A fire captain in southern Lane County was arrested Thursday for attempting to lure a minor and has been charged with misconduct after seeking sexual contact from an officer posing as a child, Hood River Sheriff’s Office says.
54-year-old Darron Leslie Houck has been indicted by a Hood River County grand jury for luring a minor and first-degree official misconduct.
According to the indictment, Houck sought sexual contact from an officer posing as a child on Sept. 26. Houck is also accused of “consciously disregarding” what would be a sex crime against a child.
Houck told officials that he has worked for South Lane County Fire & Rescue for 17 years and currently working as a fire captain and paramedic.
Detectives believe Houck may have more victims. Anyone with additional information about him is asked to call the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 541-387-7077.
Two adults, three teens arrested in assault incident, weapon seized
Salem, Ore. — Salem Police arrested four teenagers and one adult early Sunday in an assault incident in northeast Salem.
At approximately 4:30 a.m. Sunday, a police officer en route to work observed five male subjects physically assaulting a man in the area of Market ST and Hawthorne AV NE. The suspects then quickly fled the area in a vehicle.
Salem officers responded in search of the suspect vehicle which was located about 20 minutes later by a Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputy near the intersection of Lancaster DR and Center ST NE.
The occupants of the involved vehicle were apprehended without incident. A handgun was located inside the vehicle and seized.
Horacio Chavez Soto, age 20, and Manuel Contreras Rivera, age 19, both of Salem were taken into custody. Both were lodged on the charge of riot, and each has since been released.
Three juveniles, two age 16 and one age 17, were detained and transported to the Marion County Juvenile Department. One 16-year-old boy faces charges of riot and unlawful possession of a weapon (the firearm). The other two teens are charged with riot.
All further inquiries into this investigation should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.
Teachers and other educational staff in Greater Albany Public Schools on strike Update
There is still no agreement between Albany teachers and the Greater Albany Public School District.
The teachers strike is responsible for school being cancelled throughout last week.
The strike will continue Monday, meaning no classes once again.
With Albany teachers on the picket lines working on negotiating with the school district, and schools closed down for the week, families are starting to see the effects of the strike outside of school.
Greater Albany Public Schools has been providing meals for students to pick up during the day while the strike goes on. The district has added pick-up locations across the city.
In addition to meals, there are also childcare programs and activities at the Boys and Girls Club of Albany, but that is for members only. Parents have the option of bringing their kids to the Albany YMCA regardless of membership status for $40 a day. —- Both sides were negotiating on November 13, and it is still not clear when schools could reopen.
ORIGINAL POST: Hundreds of educators in Albany walked out of class Tuesday morning for the first time in nearly 40 years.
About 600 teachers within Greater Albany Public Schools went on strike Tuesday for the first time in nearly 40 years. Teachers and other educational staff in Greater Albany Public Schools went on strike after a mediation session between it and the district ended without an agreement.
“We just don’t feel like they hear us,” said Ken Beiser, a teacher who is also on the union bargaining team. Beiser said the union and the school district bargained until 2 a.m. on Tuesday and did not reach a deal. “There just wasn’t sufficient movement,” Beiser said.
The union and the district have been bargaining for the past nine months and progress has been slow. Beiser said 20 articles of the next 3-year contract are still not settled. In late October, teachers voted overwhelmingly — 92% — to authorize the strike.
Mediation between the district and the union has been ongoing since Sept. 10, with five full-day sessions. Most of those have run into the evenings.
Quick Response Saves Eugene Home
Eugene, OR. Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a house fire on Cross Pl North of Railroad Blvd in West Eugene Saturday afternoon. Firefighters were called by a passerby who observed smoke from the crawlspace of the home at 12:29 PM on November 16th.
Firefighters from Station 2 in the Whitaker neighborhood arrived in three and a half minutes after dispatch along with another engine, truck and battalion chief. Crews declared a working fire and requested the balance of a first alarm bringing an additional two engines, a second chief, ambulance and EMS supervisor. Firefighters immediately went to work flowing water in the crawl space while the truck accessed the structure and used saws to open the floor area to access the seat of the fire.
Despite challenging access, the quick response and skill of responding firefighters saved the home and contents. Preliminary information suggests a malfunctioning wall heater ignited the fire. There were no injuries reported.
PeaceHealth Patients Report Long Waits, Less Time with Healthcare Providers a Year After Eugene Hospital Closure
A recent survey of PeaceHealth patients found a staggering 97% reported having a negative experience at a local PeaceHealth facility with an overwhelming majority reporting multiple issues ranging from long waits for emergency care to unexpected bills.
The findings come nearly a year after PeaceHealth chose to close its University District hospital—leaving nearly 200,000 Eugene residents without a hospital or emergency room in Oregon’s 3rd largest city.
The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) and the Pacific Northwest Hospital Medicine Association (PNWHMA) conducted the survey between Sept. 9 – 27, 2024. ONA and PNWHMA represent more than 1,500 frontline nurses, doctors, and advanced practice providers at local PeaceHealth hospitals, clinics, urgent cares and home care services.
“Our nurses, providers and staff clearly voiced concerns to PeaceHealth about the negative impacts closing University District would have on our community and on PeaceHealth Riverbend. Unfortunately, everything we anticipated—and more—has come to pass,” said Chris Rompala, ONA board member and nurse at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Riverbend.
The Annual Willamette Valley Ornament Hunt Starts Friday November 15th
It’s time once again for one of the Willamette Valley’s most beloved traditions: the seventh annual Willamette Valley Ornament Hunt, taking place across the Willamette National Forest and Umpqua National Forest.
Between November 15 and Dec. 25, 2024, two hundred locally-crafted wooden ornaments will be hidden along two-dozen trails in both forests—where eagle-eyed hikers can seek them out and register to win this year’s grand prize, which includes a two-night getaway in the Willamette Valley. Here’s more information: https://www.willamettevalley.org/ornament
Benton County Property Tax Payment Collection Hours Limited to 10-4 Because of Strike
CORVALLIS, Ore. – Property taxes for Benton County residents are due by Friday, Nov. 15, 2024. In-person service hours are limited this week while many County workers are on strike, so those who plan to pay in person should go to the Kalapuya building at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
In addition to making payments in person, there are five other ways to pay property taxes:
- Use the tax payment drop box in the parking lot of the Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way – open 24 hours a day.
- Pay online at finance.bentoncountyor.gov/pay-your-property-taxes.
- Call 1-866-898-2918 to pay by phone.
- Mail payment to the Benton County Tax Office, P.O. Box 964, Corvallis, Oregon, 97339. Payments must be postmarked by Nov. 15, 2024.
- Make payments at Oregon State Credit Union branches within Benton County or at the Umpqua Bank in Monroe. Please make sure to bring your payment coupons.
Property owners who pay their taxes in full by Nov. 15 will receive a 3% discount. Alternatively, taxpayers have the option to spread their payments over three equal installments. The first installment is payable on Nov. 15, with subsequent payments due Feb. 15 and May 15, 2025.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
Exhibits for 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵
There are great exhibits at the University of Oregon’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History, but this year we encourage you to look north to Salem and Willamette University’s Hallie Ford Museum of Art.
The HFMA’s permanent exhibition 𝘈𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘭 𝘋𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘶𝘦𝘴: 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘈𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘳𝘵 is certainly worth a visit in person, but is also available as a virtual tour 
https://bit.ly/48gwbmwAdditionally, check out a film series featuring three Native American artists from the Pacific Northwest whose work is exhibited at HFMA https://bit.ly/48m5Y63
Detectives ask for help finding violent offender with warrants
Salem, Ore. — Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit detectives ask for the public’s help in locating a suspect with multiple warrants.
Arrest warrants on charges of first- and second-degree kidnapping have been issued for Javier Banuelos Munoz, Jr., age 44, of Salem in relation to several incidents of domestic violence. He also has an outstanding parole violation warrant from the Oregon State Parole Board.
Detectives have exhausted all efforts to locate Banuelos Munoz and request the public’s help with this case.
Banuelos Munoz is a Hispanic male adult with black hair and brown eyes. He is 5-foot, 8-inches in height and has a medium build. He generally wears his hair shaved with a beard. Banuelos Munoz also has various tattoos; the most prominent marking is on the right side of his neck and reads Munoz in script lettering.
Anyone with information about Banuelos Munoz’s whereabouts is asked to call the Salem Police Tips Line at 503-588-8477.
If you see Banuelos Munoz, call local police authorities, and refer to this wanted poster. Do not approach him. He is considered a violent offender with potential access to firearms.
2024–2025 Property Tax Statements Available Online and in The Mail
The 2024-2025 property tax statements were mailed beginning October 21, 2024. Statements are available online now, as well as information about the county value trends, levy changes, and individual property tax account information, at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/AT. The first payment is due on November 15, 2024.
Appeals – If taxpayers believe their properties’ market values are incorrect, taxpayers should first contact Lane County Assessment and Taxation. Taxpayers have the right to appeal to the Property Valuation Appeal Board (PVAB) through the Deeds and Records Division of the County Clerk’s Office.
PVAB has the authority to reduce market value when sufficient evidence is provided to demonstrate the RMV of a property was different on January 1, 2024 compared to the tax statement. A reduction to the value does not always result in a refund. PVAB cannot grant reductions to a tax amount; it can only review a property’s value. Taxpayers can appeal through Deeds and Records through December 31, 2024.
Lane County Government — Part of being prepared for an emergency is knowing how you will receive emergency alerts and life safety information. Lane County uses several tools to alert residents.
Watch the video below to learn more about those tools and decide which ones you will rely on in the event of an emergency or disaster. 
https://vimeo.com/565852770Sign up to receive Lane Alerts emergency alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org#NationalPreparednessMonth
“When It Hits The Fan”: Podcast by Lane County Emergency Management
This month on Lane County Emergency Management’s 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼𝑡 𝐻𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑛, Emergency Manager Tiffany Brown shares essential tips on what to do when staying home isn’t an option.
Tiffany dives into how to prepare your Go Bag, with everything you need to sustain yourself for 72 hours: water, medications, warm layers, and more. She also breaks down the 𝟲 𝗣𝘀 – the must-haves when you need to evacuate:
People & Pets 
Prescriptions 
Personal Computer 
Papers 
Pictures 
Plastic (credit cards, important IDs)Get ready, stay informed, and make sure you’re prepared for anything! 
Listen now: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube
About Lane County Emergency Management – Lane County Emergency Management is committed to preparing the community for emergencies and disasters through education, planning, and response coordination. Listen at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan.
White Bird Clinic – · Crisis intervention is a 24/7 need in our community, and CAHOOTS, as part of White Bird Crisis Intervention programs, responds.
White Bird CAHOOTS Springfield Coverage: 11 am – 11 pm, 7 days a week (541-726-3714) — Eugene Coverage: 24/7 (541-682-5111)
White Bird Cahoots
· We’re launching a community-wide survey and asking each of you to share what CAHOOTS means to you and help guide the program’s future direction. Scan the QR code in the image or use the link below: https://bit.ly/CAHOOTS_Survey
Operation Winter Survival Stockpile
Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with the First Christian Church today announced the launch of Operation Winter Survival Stockpile. The operation is an effort to create a stockpile through donations of clothing and other supplies that will help those in our community experiencing homelessness better brave the elements.
“Every winter those in our community who are without shelter are faced with life-threatening temperatures and weather,” said Maria Cortez, Lane County Human Services Program Coordinator. “These donations will be absolutely crucial to helping these community members stay warm and stay alive.”
To help kick off Operation Winter Survival Stockpile, First Christian Church is hosting a one-day donation drive event where community members can drop-off donations and enjoy refreshments Monday, November 25th from 1 pm to 5 pm. After the donation drive, items can continue to be dropped off Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 2 pm. Items can also be purchased on Amazon and sent to 1166 Oak St., Eugene OR 97401.
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.
Items needed for Operation Winter Survival Supply Stockpile include:
• Tents – preferably 2 person
• Blankets – preferably wool
• Rain ponchos
• Sleeping Bags
• Hand Warmers
• Socks – preferably wool
• Tarps
• Gift Cards
• Laundry Cards
• Footwear
• Thermal Underwear
• Flashlights/ Batteries
• Beanies/Warm Hats
• Gloves
• Other survival supplies
For more information on Operation Winter Survival Stockpile, please contact Maria Cortez at ia.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov“>Maria.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov
Organic Carrots E. coli outbreak turns fatal
Federal agencies warned an E. coli outbreak turned deadly, and the related recall nationwide involves organic carrots sold in over a dozen brands including Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, GreenWise, 365, Nature’s Promise, and Bunny-Luv.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Sunday that an E. coli outbreak related to organic whole and baby carrots caused one death, there were 39 infections in 18 states, and 15 remained hospitalized.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Saturday that Grimmway Farms issued a recall. A CDC map tracking the reported cases showed most of the cases that started in September were in Washington, New York, Minnesota, Oregon, and California.
The CDC asked anyone with severe symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting to “seek health care, and tell your provider about what you ate.” According to the CDC, symptoms usually start 3 to 4 days after swallowing the bacteria and although some patients may develop kidney problems, most people recover without treatment after 5 to 7 days.
For more information about the E. coli outbreak, visit the CDC page. For more information about the recall, visit the FDA page.
Reward of up to $25,000 Offered in Ballot Box Fire Case
The FBI’s Seattle Field Office is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the person responsible setting incendiary fires at two ballot boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and one in Portland, Oregon. The FBI’s Seeking Information poster can be found here: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/ballot-box-fires
On October 8, 2024, between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m., an unknown individual placed an improvised incendiary device on a ballot drop box in Vancouver, Washington. Subsequently, on October 28, 2024, between 2:00 and 4:00 a.m., improvised incendiary devices were placed on ballot drop boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon.
A surveillance camera captured images of an early 2003 to 2004 Volvo S-60 sedan, dark in color, with dark wheels and a light-colored interior, driven by the suspect believed to responsible for these crimes. The vehicle does not have a Volvo logo on the front grill. At the time of the October 28, 2024, incidents, the vehicle also displayed a fraudulent temporary Washington license plate on the rear and no front license plate. The plate, which is not associated with a Volvo, may no longer be on the vehicle.
The driver of the vehicle is described as a White male, approximately 30 to 40 years old with thinning hair. It is believed that he may have some experience with metal work and welding.
Anyone with information is asked to call your nearest FBI office, provide information online at tips.fbi.gov, or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). FBI – Oregon
Groundbreaking Dedication Event for Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Oregon State Capitol- Friday, November 22, 2024 | 2:00 p.m.
The Oregon State Capitol will be the site of the highly anticipated dedication ceremony for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Friday, November 22, at 2:00 p.m. This momentous event will be the formal dedication of Phase 1 of the memorial, which honors the service and sacrifice of Oregon’s Vietnam veterans. The public ceremony will occur at Salem’s Willson Park memorial site on the Capitol grounds, at the corner of State and Cottage Street, with a reception to follow at the nearby Withnell Family YMCA.
The memorial pays tribute to 710 Oregonians who lost their lives in the Vietnam War, along with the more than 180,000 Oregonians who served in Vietnam and around the world from 1955-1975. The design features 46 black granite columns engraved with the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It creates a reflective space for veterans, families, and the public to honor their memory.
The event will include comments from local veterans, state officials, and Vietnam War Memorial Fund members, who have been instrumental in making this project a reality. The event is hosted by the Oregon Vietnam War Memorial Fund and is supported by a grant of Transient Occupancy Tax from the City of Salem.
The Importance of the Memorial – The Vietnam War remains one of the most challenging and divisive periods in American history. Veterans returning from the conflict were often met with indifference or hostility, making this memorial an overdue recognition of their service. The memorial offers a space for healing and remembrance, honoring both the sacrifices of the fallen and the resilience of those who served. Steve Bates, President and co-founder of the Vietnam War Memorial Fund (VWMF), emphasized the emotional impact of this project. “This is about giving our veterans a place of rest and, for all of us, a place to heal,” Bates said. The memorial will not only commemorate the service of Vietnam veterans but also serve as a reminder of the war’s lasting impact on the state and its people.
Beyond its role as a place of remembrance, the memorial will also serve as an educational resource when Phase 2 is completed. Phase 2, the Exhibit Phase, aims to help future generations understand the human cost of war and the bravery of those who fought.
For more information, see a virtual tour or donate, visit ocvvm.com.
About the VWMF: Vietnam War Memorial Fund’s website at www.ocvvm.com. The Vietnam War Memorial Fund is a recognized 501(c)3 organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent of applicable tax law. You can donate by sending a check to the Vietnam War Memorial Fund – P O Box 1448 – Boring, Oregon 97009 or by credit card at www.ocvvm.com.
Pertussis case count, expected to beat record, alarms health officials
Vaccinations urged as whooping cough on track to pass 910 cases in 2024
PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon is expected to surpass its record of 910 pertussis cases by the end of 2024, prompting health officials to sharpen their warnings about the disease’s serious risks—especially for young babies—and their emphasis on the importance of vaccination.
As of Nov. 13, Oregon has seen a total of 827 cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, in 23 counties during 2024, according to Oregon Health Authority (OHA) data. At least one person, an older adult, has died.
In 2012, 910 pertussis cases were reported, the highest annual count since 1953.
“I’m worried, given the time of year, because people are attending indoor holiday gatherings, and those gatherings often include newborns who are too young to be vaccinated,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.
Lane County has the highest number of pertussis cases this year with 249. The other counties with the highest case counts are Multnomah with 180, Clackamas with 109, Washington with 67 and Deschutes with 59. The median age of cases is 11, with the range between 5 weeks and 89 years.
Babies too young to be fully vaccinated suffer the most from pertussis, with the highest reported incidence rate and highest likelihood of hospitalization and death. This is because babies don’t start building protection against infection until they are vaccinated at 2 months old. With the exception of 2024, Oregon pertussis deaths have been limited to infants—five have occurred since 2003.
Public health experts urge pregnant people to get the Tdap vaccine – which protects a person against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis – at 27–36 weeks’ gestation. The mothers will make antibodies and pass them to their babies across the placenta, which lowers the risk of pertussis in babies younger than 2 months by 78%–91%.
Vaccination against pertussis is routinely recommended for infants, children, adolescents and adults. Children should receive the DTaP vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis at 2, 4, 6 and 15 to 18 months, and again at age 4 to kindergarten age. All persons 10 and older, including those 65 and older, who have not had the single-dose Tdap vaccine should get it now.
Data from January through Nov. 13 show 406 (49%) of this year’s cases had zero doses of documented pertussis vaccines, and only 361 (44%) were up to date on vaccines. Among the 75 infant cases, only 11 mothers were documented to have received the recommended dose of Tdap during pregnancy.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic—when restrictions that included masking requirements and school closures were in effect—annual case tallies routinely reached triple digits, but dropped to three in 2021. But this year’s to-date 827 cases, which represents a nearly 2,500% increase from the 32 cases reported by the same period in 2023, has surprised state and local public health officials.
“It’s concerning,” said Lisandra Guzman, M.D., Lane County’s deputy public health officer and a preventive medicine physician. “Pertussis is very contagious, and that’s one of the reasons it’s so hard to control.”
Another reason, Guzman explained, is that early in an infection, pertussis can be confused with respiratory viral infections. “What you think may be a simple cold can turn out to be pertussis, because that’s how it begins—with a mild upper respiratory infection. After a couple weeks, the whooping cough begins.”
Jennifer Gibbons, N.D., a naturopathic physician in Portland, says 80% of her family medicine practice is pediatrics, and she can cite many examples of a pertussis infection’s devastating effects on children. She recalls seeing a 5-month-old baby whose mother explained the child would have difficulty breathing and cough until she vomited, then seem fine minutes later.
“I’m talking to her, and she has this perfectly healthy-looking 5-month-old baby, who then all of a sudden starts coughing, and her face turns dark red, and she’s gasping for breath while she’s trying to cough up all the secretions,” Gibbons remembers. “With pertussis, they get into these spasms of coughing that they can’t stop, and they’re often bringing up large amounts of mucus. It’s very scary.”
Cieslak, Guzman and Gibbons agree that getting children vaccinated with all doses of DTaP, and adults—particularly pregnant people—vaccinated with Tdap is the best way to protect young children, older adults, and their families and friends during the holidays, and beyond.
“I’ve had multiple families say, ‘If I had known how bad this was going to be, I would have vaccinated.’ I use that to tell other families,” Gibbons says. She also reminds families that “kids tolerate this vaccine very well. I find it to be a really useful, safe and effective vaccine.”
When an infant or pregnant person is in the household of someone with pertussis, all household members should receive a course of antibiotics effective against Bordetella pertussis—typically, a five-day course of azithromycin.
Merkley and Wyden Announce $5.4 Million for Hazardous Fuels Transportation Projects to Reduce Wildfire Risk in Oregon
Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced $5,416,405 is coming to Oregon from the Ley de Reducción de la Inflación—the largest investment in clean energy and climate action ever—for hazardous fuels transportation projects across the state. The federal funding awarded by the U.S. Forest Service will reduce the risk of wildfires by moving hazardous fuels—smaller trees, live or dead brush, tree limbs, and other natural debris—from national forests and grasslands to facilities for use in wood products and wood energy production.
“2024 was another record-breaking year for wildfires burning acres across our state, especially devastating in Eastern Oregon. We need an all-hands-on-deck approach to combat and help prevent these destructive fires,” said Merkley, who serves as chair of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the U.S. Forest Service. “This federal funding that the Forest Service is investing in our industries and communities hardest hit by mill closures is a tremendous economic boost, while reducing wildfire risk across Oregon. I will continue to tackle climate chaos with the urgency it demands, as increasingly frequent and severe wildfires threaten our homes, businesses, and way of life.”
“Taking the offensive against wildfires with federal investments just like these are a must to reduce the risk of bigger and more destructive blazes threatening lives and property throughout Oregon,” dijo Wyden. “I’m gratified the Inflation Reduction Act I worked to pass is generating these vital returns for rural parts of our state. Oregonians in those communities suffered greatly this past year from infernos burning nearly 2 million acres in our state, and these federal funds will provide opportunities for them to fight back effectively.”
The awards to Oregon are part of a $20 million effort by the Forest Service to fund 34 entities for 66 projects as part of its hazardous fuels transportation assistance program. These funds provide economic benefits to the timber industry and local communities while supporting the Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy.
The eight projects selected in Oregon are as follows:
- Iron Triangle ($3,169,008) – This project occurs on the Malheur National Forest and provides jobs in one of Oregon’s most economically disadvantaged areas that has been impacted by mill closures. The project includes removing approximately 240,000 tons of sawlogs and non-saw from almost 9000 acres.
- Forestry First ($712,577) – The projects occur with the Central Oregon Wildlife Crisis Landscape and involve the removal and utilization of 32,795 tons of biomass. This proposal would help retain crucial forest product industry in Oregon.
- Lomakatsi Restoration ($462,768) – Project includes the removal and innovative utilization of 7,500 green tons of biomass material within the Klamath River Basin Wildfire Crisis Landscape to create HumiSoil. Lomakatsi works with and employs many Klamath and affiliated tribal members.
- Cow Creek/Umpqua Tribe ($375,000) – The project partner is the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Indian Tribe and occurs on Umpqua Tribal lands adjacent to Forest Service lands in Oregon. The project includes 65,000 tons of material on 1,000 acres. Wood processing would occur at multiple sites including Umpqua Indian Forest Products.
- Malheur Lumber ($310,384) – This project is located on the Ochoco National Forest in a Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Project and Joint Chief’s landscape and includes the treatment of 9,732 CCF of small diameter sawlogs and biomass on 1,073 acres. This project occurs within an underserved area impacted by mill closures.
- Mineral Creek Logging ($248,668) – Project includes removing 4,000 tons of non-saw Timber Subject to Agreement material from 402 acres on the Rogue River-Siskiyou. This project provides benefits to underserved communities.
- Biomass One ($88,000) – Project is within a Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Project landscape on the Roge River-Siskiyou National Forest and Crater Lake National Park. The project involves the removal of 15,000 green tons of biomass material on approximately 950 acres.
- High Desert Partnership ($50,000) – This project occurs on the Malheur National Forest and helps address one of Oregon’s most economically disadvantaged communities. The project includes removing biomass from 300 acres and have been proposed by a community-led initiative that includes representation from the Burns Paiute Tribe.
Asante Rogue Regional Hospital in Medford is facing another lawsuit related
to allegations that a nurse swapped patients’ fentanyl with tap water.
The latest lawsuit, (3 now) filed on behalf of multiple patients, seeks more than $22 million in damages. According to the lawsuit filings, the plaintiffs claim they suffered physical pain and emotional distress due to not receiving the prescribed medication.
The lawsuit alleges that the hospital was negligent in preventing this suffering. This marks at least the third lawsuit filed against the hospital in connection with the situation. The nurse accused of the tampering is scheduled to appear in court next month for a pre-trial hearing, though a trial date has not yet been set.
Oregon School districts, employees face $670 million increase in payments to public pension system
The increased costs for schools to the Public Employee Retirement System in the next two years will more than wipe out the governor’s proposed increases in school funding
Oregon school districts are projected to pay $670 million more to the state’s public employee pension program over the next two years, potentially wiping out all increases to school funding proposed by Gov. Tina Kotek.
The increased tab, more than 10% for some districts, follows lagging returns in investments of the Public Employees Retirement system and could affect teaching and learning in some schools.
“Next year’s sharp jumps in PERS rates will take significant money away from classrooms without making life any better for current educators,” Emielle Nischik, executive director of the Oregon School Boards Association, said in an email. “School districts have done their best to mitigate PERS’ pain, but it is out of their control.”
The impact will vary, with most of Oregon’s 197 school districts and 17 community colleges facing an average 1.5% increase in their payroll going to PERS during the 2025-27 budget cycle, according to a PERS presentation last month.
But 22 districts are facing average increases of 10% or more in part because investment returns have been lower than expected but mainly because side investment accounts meant to help buffer PERS increases are expiring. For 72 school districts that don’t have one of these accounts, the average contribution rate for PERS will soon amount to about 27% of payroll.
Overall, school districts and colleges will pay $565 million more in the next two years compared with the 2023-25 biennium, while about 77,000 vested employees, who also pay into PERS, will pay $105 million more.
The increased costs to districts will more than erase the $515 million boost proposed by Kotek for school funding for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. She announced in July that she’d ask the state Legislature early next year to send more than half a billion dollars to the State School Fund for the next biennium to boost student outcomes, literacy rates and more. The fund is responsible for the bulk of district funding, and payroll makes up about 85% of school budgets.
The latest PERS increases are the consequence of an uptick in post-pandemic hiring, public sector wages growing faster than anticipated, a pre-2003 investment formula that made employers liable for massive contributions and several years of underperforming investments, according to Kevin Olineck, director of the system.
The latter is the largest reason for the latest increases, he said. PERS investments were 10% lower in 2022 and 2023, collectively, than the four-member, governor-appointed Oregon Investment Council had anticipated.
“The Oregon Investment Council is very highly invested in private equities, and they did less than what the public equity markets did,” Olineck explained. Being heavily invested in private equities has brought mostly beneficial returns for PERS in the last 10 or 15 years, he added, but not in the last few years. READ MORE: https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/11/13/oregon-school-districts-employees-face-670-million-increase-in-payments-to-public-pension-system/
OHCS invests $5 million to help youth experiencing homelessness in rural Oregon
SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is investing $5 million to combat rural homelessness through the Youth Emergency Housing Assistance Program (YEHA). The $5 million will be disbursed to five different organizations in Coos, Klamath, Lincoln, Douglas, and Josephine Counties that help youth and their families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.
“We are committed to ensuring every young person in Oregon has a safe place to call home,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “By investing in real solutions to address youth homelessness, we aim to bridge the funding and service gaps that rural communities often face. This investment will help create sustainable pathways to housing stability and increase opportunities for our youth to thrive.”
The YEHA project team analyzed data from both Oregon’s Emergency Homelessness Response and the Department of Education to identify which communities had the highest rate of youth experiencing homelessness to ensure these funds make the biggest possible impact. The YEHA project team chose the Coos County Office of Homelessness Response, Integral Youth Services in Klamath County, the Lincoln County Housing Authority, the Phoenix School of Roseburg in Douglas County, and the Maslow Project in Josephine County to receive funding.
“This funding will empower us to expand our outreach, enhance our support services, and build sustainable solutions for the unique challenges faced by our Josephine County community,” said Maslow Project Founder and Executive Director Mary Ferrell. “It’s a vital step toward ensuring that youth and families in our county can access safe and stable housing. We know that when stabilized, youth are far more likely to finish high school, improve their long-term outcomes, and end the cycle of homelessness.”
YEHA aims to provide housing-focused services to school-age children and their families to enhance family stability and school success. The organizations in these counties will establish and promote intentional collaboration between schools and housing providers to extend a reliable family support network and optimize the funding’s impact. These resources will help cover expenses such as rent, utilities, work and educational support, moving costs, transportation, furniture, household goods, and more.
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.
Crater Lake Gets Snow – North Entrance Road and Rim Drive are CLOSED for the season.
Crater Lake got its first big snowstorm of the year Wednesday. If you were planning a late fall trip to Oregon’s
Crater Lake National Park today, you’re out of luck. All roads at the park were closed Thursday morning after a winter
storm dumped snow on the park and “equipment challenges” meant employees couldn’t immediately clear them.
The North Entrance Road and East & West Rim Drives are now closed for the season a few The roads will not open again until mid to late June or July 2025. All other roads are open.
According to a post on the park’s website, all park roads were temporarily closed to travel “while the snowplow
operators work to repair equipment and clear the roads.” he park had gotten just under 15 inches of snow in about 24 hours, according to Tim Daldrup, a meterologist with the National Weather Service in Medford.
The snow was expected to continue, though substantially lighter, for the next several days. But, said Dalrup, another storm is predicted late Sunday into Monday that could bring a foot or more of new snow to the area. Crater Lake National Park did not respond to say when they anticipated re-opening park roads. In general, the park is open all year, and snow is common. https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
Free Fishing Days in Oregon Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 29-30
Make fishing part of your Thanksgiving weekend plans with friends and family. Everyone can fish, clam and crab for free in Oregon on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 29-30.
No fishing/shellfish licenses or tags (including a Combined Angling Tag, Columbia River Basin Endorsement or Two-Rod Validation) are required those two days. Both Oregon residents and nonresidents can fish for free.
All other fishing regulations apply including closures, bag limits and size restrictions. See the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for rules and remember to check for any in-season regulation updates too, especially for salmon and steelhead fishing. Click on the zone where you want to fish to see regulation updates.
The Recreation Report is updated weekly and features the best bests for fishing for the upcoming week. Depending on water levels and conditions, fishing could be good for Chinook or coho salmon; again be sure to check regulations first because not all rivers are open. Trout will also be stocked the week before Thanksgiving at several popular lakes in the Willamette Valley.
For beginners, Easy Angling Oregon is a great guide to getting started fishing in Oregon, https://myodfw.com/articles/easy-angling-oregon-introduction. And if you live near Portland, Bend, Medford, Roseburg or in Lane County, there are lots of nearby options.
Prefer to crab or clam instead? MyODFW.com has all the information you need to get started clamming or crabbing. Remember to check ocean conditions and take safety precautions—always clam with a friend and never turn your back on the ocean.
Call the ODA Shellfish safety hotline at 1-800-448-2474 or check their Shellfish Closures page before you go clamming or crabbing. The Oregon Department of Agriculture regularly tests shellfish and closes areas when naturally occurring biotoxins get to levels that make crabs and clams unsafe to eat.
Currently, crabbing is open in bays, beaches, estuaries, tide pools, piers and jetties along the entire Oregon coast. Crabbing is closed in the ocean due to the annual closure from Oct. 16-Nov. 30 each year.
As of mid-November, razor clamming is closed from Cascade Head to the California border due to high levels of the marine biotoxin domoic acid, but closures may change by Thanksgiving Weekend so check before you go. (SOURCE)
Triple your impact: Pacific Power will match your contribution to Oregon Energy Fund 2-for-1
Pacific Power is making it simple to make a difference in communities by helping struggling neighbors stay warm this winter. For every dollar that you donate, Pacific Power will match your donation to the Oregon Energy Fund with $2 more.
Pacific Power customers who receive their bills by mail will find they include an Oregon Energy Fund contribution envelope in November. Customers who pay their bills electronically can send a check or enroll in the fixed donation program. To enroll in the fixed donation program, customers can call Pacific Power toll-free at 1-888-221-7070 or Donate to Energy Assistance (pacificpower.net).
This program allows customers to donate any dollar amount, starting at $1 per month, which is then incorporated into their monthly bill. Fixed donations will also be matched 2-for-1 by Pacific Power.
Donations may be tax-deductible and are forwarded directly to the Oregon Energy Fund, which verifies eligibility and allocates funds to those in need. All funds donated are used to assist families in need within the same county in which the donor resides.
“Pacific Power’s commitment to supporting household stability is bolstered by compassion, collaboration and innovation,” said Brian Allbritton, executive director of the Oregon Energy Fund.
“Studies have shown that more than a quarter of Oregonians struggle to pay their bills each year,” said Albritton. “From Oregon Energy Fund’s start in 1989, Pacific Power has been an important partner in bringing emergency bill payment assistance to thousands of vulnerable Oregonians, helping make them healthy and safe while keeping their lights on.”
Last year, donations from Pacific Power’s customers, employees and the company helped 2,995 individuals in need throughout Oregon, including 1,482 adults, 503 seniors, 464 people with disabilities and 1,010 children. This year, Pacific Power will match up to $144,000 in donations.
Customers who need bill assistance can speak with Pacific Power representatives at 1-888-221-7070 who can help with payment plans that work for their individual needs, while directing them to agencies that may be able to help. https://www.pacificpower.net/about/newsroom/news-releases/2024-Oregon-Energy-Fund.html#:~:text=PORTLAND%2C%20Ore.,Energy%20Fund%20with%20%242%20more.
Oregon begins rollout of new housing benefits for eligible OHP members with health conditions
SALEM, Ore. – Starting today, Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members with specific health conditions may qualify for new, first-in-the-nation benefits to keep their current housing and access other housing services.
The housing benefits include rent assistance for up to six months, utility set-up and payments for up to six months, home modifications and upgrades for health or safety reasons (e.g., grab bars, ramp installation, pest control), and rental navigation services. Unlike other state and local prevention services, eligible members can request these benefits ahead of receiving an eviction notice.
Not all OHP members will qualify for these new benefits. To qualify, OHP members must meet specific requirements, including at least one of the following health conditions: a complex physical or behavioral health condition; a developmental or intellectual disability; difficulty with self-care and daily activities; experience of abuse or neglect; be 65 years of age or older; be under the age of six; currently pregnant or gave birth in the past 12 months; or repeated use of emergency room or crisis services.
OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi, MD, MBA, said, “Oregon’s health inequities are inextricably linked to our state’s housing crisis. Individuals and families who become homeless face a significantly higher risk of mortality and higher rates of behavioral and physical health conditions – even as they report poorer access to care. These Medicaid benefits can help stop that cycle and, in a model for the rest of the country, make it possible for Oregonians to maintain their current housing, connect with providers and access additional resources that support their well-being.”
Oregon received permission from the federal government to test whether and how addressing health-related social needs improves health outcomes. While other states have launched similar benefits, Oregon is the first in the nation to roll out rent assistance as a statewide Medicaid benefit for eligible OHP members.
“Housing plays a pivotal role in our physical and mental wellbeing. And yet, so many of our neighbors are living paycheck to paycheck, where an unexpected issue can lead to a loss of income and loss of a home,” said Emma Sandoe, Medicaid Director at Oregon Health Authority. “These benefits are one more tool to keep Oregonians housed during short-term disruptions and prevent negative health outcomes of homelessness.”
Of renters across Oregon, 22% have extremely low income, with $30,560 being the average income limit for a four-person household. Adults living with housing insecurity, including threat of eviction, are 19% more likely to lack access to a primary care provider and 35% more likely to postpone preventative health care even if they have chronic health conditions. Evictions and loss of housing can lead to negative health outcomes including:
- Increasing an individual’s risk for physical and mental health conditions
- Making an individual’s existing health condition worse
- Creating barriers to accessing medical care, medications and food
“Housing is a critical driver of health outcomes, significantly impacting social mobility and economic opportunity,” said Oregon Housing and Community Services Executive Director, Andrea Bell. “Stable housing serves as a catalyst for expanding access to preventive care, while reducing the monumental costs associated with emergency care. This is what transformative, integrated care looks like.”
Starting this month, housing providers are contracted to begin connecting with eligible members and delivering these new benefits across the state. Housing benefit applications may take up to two weeks to be reviewed. If approved, additional time may be needed to provide the benefit. These turnaround timeframes will depend on the capacities of individual CCOs and housing service providers as well as the volume of housing applications received. OHA is working closely with CCOs to continue to expand the network over the next year.
Fostering healthy families and environments is one of the five pillars to achieving OHA’s strategic goal of eliminating health inequities in Oregon by 2030. The housing benefits are one of several new health-related social needs benefits Oregon is piloting to meet this goal. In March, the state launched climate benefits including air conditioners, air filters and other equipment to keep eligible members healthy amid extreme weather events. Nutrition benefits will be available for eligible OHP members starting in January 2025.
OHP members interested in receiving housing benefits can work with their health plan (coordinated care organization or Open Card), health care provider or a local OHP community partner to see if they qualify and apply.
OHP members should contact their coordinated care organization (CCO) to learn more. OHP Open Card members can call 1-888-834-4304 or email ORHRSN@acentra.com. If an OHP member is not sure which plan or CCO they are in, they can call the OHA Client Services Unit at 1-800-273-0557 or email Ask.OHP@odhsoha.oregon.gov.
For OHP members who are currently unhoused, resources may be available through 211. — For more information about these benefits, visit the OHP housing benefits web page.
Bureau of Land Management recreation managers are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to fill host positions at six unique locations for the 2025 summer recreation season.
Volunteer hosts play a critical role at BLM recreation sites. They are the primary, daily connection between public land users and BLM staff. Hosts also assist BLM staff to open and close sites each day, manage campground and shelter reservations, answer visitor questions, encourage visitor rule adherence, and generally maintain the sites.
A paved RV pad is provided at each site for host volunteers. Sites have varying degrees of amenities from full electric, water, and sewer hook-ups to completely primitive sites with only public potable water access. The selected volunteer(s) must provide their own trailer, motorhome, RV, or tent set-up.
Each host will receive a modest daily stipend to off-set some living costs and incidental expenses. Hosts are expected to live on site during the region’s busiest recreation season, typically from April through September. (The start date for the selected host at Sharps Creek will likely be earlier in the year.)
For more information and to apply for these volunteer opportunities, please visit Volunteer.gov. If you have further questions, contact Kendra Barat at kbarat@blm.gov or (720) 591-68
Child Sexual Predator Eluded Capture in Idaho, Has Ties to Southern Oregon, He May Be Dressed as a Woman
– A fugitive with ties to the southern Oregon region is on-the-run after eluding capture Tuesday, October 22 in Idaho. Christian Bert Fischer, 42, is wanted in Florida for Traveling to Meet a Minor After Use of a Computer to Lure a Child.
Fischer is a white male, 5’10”, 200 lbs., has blonde hair and blue-colored eyes. He is also known to dress like a woman. Before heading to Idaho, Fischer was in the Portland area. This June and July, he was in Ashland, Lake of the Woods, and Wolf Creek.
U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) task forces throughout the country have joined the search, including the local Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force (PNVOTF). If you have any information on Fischer’s whereabouts, contact the local USMS office at (541) 776-4277, the USMS Communication Center at 1-800-336-0102, or USMS Tips at www.usmarshals.gov/tips.
PNVOTF includes personnel from the U.S. Marshals, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and Central Point Police Department. The task force specializes in locating and arresting fugitives wanted for offenses including, but not limited to, murder, assault, sex crimes, failure to register as a sex offender, firearm violations, and probation violations.
For more information here is the USMS Release:
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – The Hernando County Crime Stoppers in Florida is offering up a $5,000 reward for information directly leading to the arrest of Christian Bert FISCHER, a fugitive convicted in Florida for Traveling to Meet a Minor After Use of a Computer to Lure a Child. Crime Stoppers must be contacted first in order to be eligible for the cash rewards of up to $5,000.00. For additional information and instructions for the reward, please visit the following Crime Stoppers link:
http://www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?P=wanteds&ID=449&Sort=Name&F=&W=.
Additional information about the U.S. Marshals Service can be found at http://www.usmarshals.gov.
Oregon Aging and People with Disabilities offers free help for Medicare Open Enrollment
(Salem) — Medicare Open Enrollment for the 2025 plan year begins Oct. 15 and remains open through Dec. 7, 2024. Medicare beneficiaries seeking to compare or change their existing Medicare plan can receive free help from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).
During the Medicare Open Enrollment period, people with Medicare can make changes to their health plan or prescription drug plan, pick a Medicare Advantage plan or choose Original Medicare. The ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities’ (APD) Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is available to help Oregonians understand their Medicare options and benefits, provide enrollment guidance and help people detect and avoid Medicare scams. Additionally, there are some key changes coming to Medicare in 2025 that APD’s SHIBA program counselors can assist people in understanding including:
- The new Manufacturer Discount Program which addresses the coverage gap, also known as the “donut hole;”
- The lower maximum to pay for covered drugs. The maximum amount for 2025 will be $2,000;
- Coverage for weight loss drugs when doctors prescribe them for people who meet certain conditions;
- Expanded coverage for family caregiver services through the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) model; and
- Increased access to mental health services by allowing more providers to bill Medicare for services.
“Our APD SHIBA team is devoted to helping people prepare for open enrollment and understand changes,” said Jane-ellen Weidanz, who oversees SHIBA as APD Deputy Director of Policy.
Oregonians who need help navigating Medicare open enrollment are encouraged to call SHIBA at 800-722-4134 (toll-free) or learn more by visiting the SHIBA website at SHIBA.Oregon.gov. The 2025 Oregon Guide to Medicare Insurance Plans will be available on the SHIBA website in the coming days and will be translated to multiple languages.
SHIBA certified counselors can also help people report scams to Medicare and educate people on how to avoid Medicare scams or fraud. According to the Senior Medicare Patrol, common scams include promising free durable medical equipment, such as knee braces and catheters, or offers of free genetic testing. The ultimate goal for the scammer is to get the beneficiary’s Medicare number to commit Medicare billing fraud. “SHIBA counselors are committed to ensuring Oregonians have the information they need to avoid becoming victims of fraud and report scams or suspected Medicare fraud,” said APD Director Dr. Nakeshia Knight-Coyle.
Help from SHIBA is available over the phone and through virtual and in-person appointments. Because high call volume during Open Enrollment may result in longer than usual wait times, Oregonians are also encouraged to access free resources on the SHIBA website such as Medicare frequently asked questions, an agent locator tool, a list of free virtual and in-person Medicare presentations and videos to help people understand their Medicare options. People who need Medicare help in a language other than English, including sign language, can call 833-685-0841 or send an email to odhs.languageaccess@odhsoha.oregon.gov; after placing a request, a translator will reach out in the requestor’s preferred language to provide assistance in communicating with SHIBA.
About the Oregon Department of Human Services – The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.
About the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program – The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is part of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. It is a statewide network of certified counselors volunteering in their community to help all Oregonians make educated Medicare decisions. SHIBA offers free, objective, confidential and local one-on-one health insurance counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families.
Media contest invites Oregon high school students to promote young worker safety; entries due Feb. 21, 2025
Salem – High school students across Oregon are encouraged to put their video or graphic design skills on display by competing for cash prizes as part of a larger cause: increasing awareness about workplace safety and health for young workers.
The 2025 media contest, organized by the Oregon Young Employee Safety (O[yes]) Coalition, calls on participants to create an ad – through a compelling graphic design or video – that grabs their peers’ attention and convinces them to take the Young Employee Safety Awareness online training.
Participants get to choose the key message, theme, or tagline they believe will go furthest in capturing their audience and moving it to act. The target audience? Teen workers or teens who are preparing to work for the first time. The contest is now open for submissions. To compete, participants may submit either a graphic design or a video that is no more than 90 seconds in length.
Participants are expected to choose their key message, theme, or tagline in a wise and positive manner, including constructive and effective messages and language.
The top three entries in each of the two media categories will take home cash prizes ranging from $300 to $500. In each category, the first-place winner’s school, club, or organization will receive a matching award. Moreover, O[yes] will use the best of the submissions as ads in its ongoing efforts to improve on-the-job safety and health protections for teens.
While they carry out their projects, participants must ensure the health and safety of their team. No one should be endangered while creating their video or graphic design project.
The deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2025.
Participants are encouraged to submit entries online. Submissions may also be mailed on a USB thumb drive or delivered in person.
For more information about the entry form and rules, contest expectations, and resources – including previous contest winners – visit the O[yes] online contest page.
The contest sponsors are local Oregon chapters of the American Society of Safety Professionals, Construction Safety Summit, Central Oregon Safety & Health Association, Hoffman Construction Company, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Oregon OSHA, SafeBuild Alliance, SAIF Corporation, and the Oregon Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) Alliance.
### About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.
About the Oregon Young Employee Safety Coalition (O[yes]): (O[yes]) is a nonprofit dedicated to preventing young worker injuries and fatalities. O[yes] members include safety and health professionals, educators, employers, labor and trade associations, and regulators. Visit youngemployeesafety.org.
Oregon’s Missing Persons
Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.
Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced
Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline.
It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com
