The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Friday, December 20, 2024
Willamette Valley Weather
Reports of Mailboxes in Eugene Being Vandalized and Mail Stolen
These are the large drop mail boxes used in neighborhoods that are key locked from the front for customers and the back opens for the mail to be placed into the indiviual boxes.
Though there’s not much information that has been released from Eugene police, the department did confirm it received an online report of a mailbox break in on Woodland Acres Lane.
It is advised to keep your eyes open for suspicious activites in and around mail boxes, and of course packages left on porches this time of year. The United States Postal Service investigates cases of mail theft.
Over $15,000 In Stolen Goods Seized by Springfield Police Department Crime Reduction Unit
In late November, officers from the Springfield Police Department Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) began an investigation into organized retail theft in which the suspect, Ramirez, was believed to have stolen thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise from multiple retailers in Lane County.
On December 16th, CRU officers served a search a warrant at a storage unit in Salem where the stolen property was believed to be housed. The search warrant yielded over $15,000 of stolen merchandise from various retailers including: Home Depot, Target, T.J Maxx, Ross, Nike, Lucky Brand Outlet, and Fred Meyer.
While returning the stolen property, it was discovered that the suspect Ramirez, had 27 documented incidents of theft or attempted theft from Home Depot stores alone. Those incidents resulted in tens of thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise from locations in Eugene, Albany, Sherwood, Beaverton, Oregon City, and Corvallis.
The Lane County District Attorney’s Office has issued a warrant for Ramirez’s arrest. Ramirez is currently incarcerated at the Washington County Jail, awaiting his transfer to Lane County. CHARGES:Organized Retail Theft – Shoplift
Sex offender posed as teen, tried to enroll in high school, Albany police say
The 27-year-old, identified as Makayla Craig, had posed as a 15-year-old girl, as well as gave a fake name and date of birth.
A registered sex offender has been arrested after attempting to enroll in a high school in Albany, according to police.
On Dec. 13, Families and Communities Together (F.A.C.T.) contacted a school resource officer about a person attempting to register for high school, according to the Albany Police Department. The 27-year-old, identified as Makayla Craig, had posed as a 15-year-old girl, as well as gave a fake name and date of birth.
A state mandate allows homeless youth to start to register for school without “verifiable identification,” but there are safeguards in place to confirm the person’s identity, police said.
Craig was arrested on charges of computer crimes, second-degree forgery and false swearing. Albany police said that Craig was lodged in the Linn County Jail on Dec. 16, but she was no longer on the jail roster as of Thursday. She was scheduled to appear in court for the first time on Jan. 15.
Court records show that Craig was convicted of third-degree sexual abuse in May 2023. The victim was a minor. After pleading guilty, Craig’s sentence in the case was for three years’ probation, and she was barred from having contact with minor children during that period — however, court documents do not indicate that Craig was made to register as a sex offender.
It’s not clear what case resulted in the sex offender registration mentioned by Albany police, and KGW has reached out for clarification.
That sexual abuse case now shows that Craig is scheduled for a hearing on a probation violation on Jan. 21.
Since 2019, Craig has also been convicted of second-degree theft and unauthorized use of a vehicle in Oregon. She was acquitted of DUII in a 2023 jury trial stemming from an arrest in 2020. (SOURCE)
Sweet Home Fire Purchases Life-Saving Equipment With Assistance From Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Grant
On August 2nd 2024 Sweet Home Fire received grant funds in the amount of $9,235.80 from the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund. The grant was intended to assist SHFAD with the purchase of 2 automated chest compression devices. The Fire District had 2 of these machines in service prior to the grant, which had been purchased with funding from a separate grant. We now have the ability to place a machine on each of our 4 ambulances.
These devices are used in response to cardiac arrest calls, to perform the most effective chest compressions possible, with the least amount of interruptions. This significantly improves survival rates for victims of cardiac arrest. The use of this equipment also decreases the number of rescuers required to effectively treat cardiac arrest patients, allowing rescuers to remain available for additional emergencies. These units arrived last week and were placed in service immediately. Sweet Home Fire wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund for their continued commitment to the health and safety of our local communities.
Fire destroys Lebanon RV
The Lebanon Fire District (LFD) responded swiftly to an RV fire in the 33000 block of Brewster Rd at approximately 4:15 pm Wednesday afternoon. Fire crews arrived at the scene to find a Class C motor home ingulfed in flames with a structure and other vehicles close by.
Firefighters worked diligently to contain and extinguish the blaze, ensuring the safety of nearby structures, vehicles, and individuals. The fire was brought under control within 3 minutes of the first arriving apparatus. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the LFD.
Fatal Crash – Interstate 5 – Linn County
– On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 6:32 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 216, in Linn County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Kenworth commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Timothy Alan Vinton Jr (56) of Harrisburg, struck a pedestrian, Ronald Hope Cole Jr (61) of Harrisburg, who was on the roadway for unknown reasons.
The pedestrian (Cole Jr) was declared deceased at the scene. The Kenworth operator (Vinton Jr) was not injured.
The highway was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation. OSP was assisted by ODOT.
Investigators are asking any motorists who saw the pedestrian in the area or witnessed the crash to contact OSP’s Northern Command Center at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number #SP24408204.
Candlelight Vigil Held for White Bird Clinic’s Front Rooms Program Closure
A candlelight vigil was held on Tuesday evening to mourn the recent closure of the White Bird Clinic’s ‘Front Rooms’ program and the loss to our community.
Hosted by the Eugene Housing and Neighborhood Defense organization, the vigil started at 5 p.m. on December 17 near Skinner Butte Park. White Bird workers from different departments spoke in support of ‘Front Rooms’ workers and then lead a funeral procession into the White Bird Board Meeting at 252 Lawrence Street. Volunteers continued the work of ‘Front Rooms’ workers by handing out food throughout the vigil, according to organizers.
White Bird Clinic’s ‘Front Rooms’ program closed last Friday, after five decades of providing low-barrier services to homeless people. The program provided a combination of food, supplies, and services to those individuals with the most urgent of needs, including mail-in message services for those without an address and warm clothes.
New Senior Leadership Closes Down White Bird Clinic’s Front Room
White Bird Clinic’s Front Rooms, permanently closed on Friday, December 13 — allegedly due to budget deficits. This critical resource for thousands of vulnerable people in Eugene is just another blow to care in the city.
This unexpected development, officially announced by White Bird’s Executive Director on November 18th, has left employees and clients uncertain about how essential services will be sustained.
The announcement of the closure of White Bird Clinic’s Front Rooms department by the new Senior Leadership Team is leaving staff and community members in shock, particularly during ongoing union negotiations.
Front Rooms is a key entry point for low-barrier services at the clinic and has been a staple in the Eugene community, serving some of the most vulnerable people for 50 years.
Some of the Front Rooms’ services will be absorbed by other White Bird departments, but the closure will leave gaps in accessibility for hundreds of vulnerable clients.
Nine employees were layed off. The organization says it’s committed to supporting those employees through severance packages, counseling services, and job placement assistance.
Front Rooms employees describe losing Front Rooms as heartbreaking, its closure leaving behind a legacy that has shaped Eugene’s social services landscape for decades.
White Bird released the following statement :
The decision to close our Front Rooms program was not made lightly. It reflects the difficult reality of a significant and unexpected reduction in funding. The PacificSource Per Member Per Month (PMPM) funding, which has been a cornerstone of our budget and accounts for over 20% of our revenue, will expire on December 31.
While this change is challenging, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the support and care our community relies on. No services are ending and will continue through our programs like CAHOOTS, NEST and our Harm Reduction Treatment Center.
Key Services:
- Mail service will continue at our main location (341 E. 12th).
- Eyeglass voucher program will continue at our main location (341 E. 12th) and will soon be available at all physical White Bird locations.
- Food distribution will continue at our NEST location (323 E. 12th).
- Gear distribution will move to our Harm Reduction Treatment Center, where clients can access not only supplies but also additional resources and support.
Our priority during this transition is twofold: to support the incredible team members impacted by this change and to ensure the community experiences as little disruption as possible.
This decision, though painful, is part of a larger effort to use our resources in the most effective way to meet the greatest needs of the people we serve. White Bird Clinic remains unwavering in its mission to care for our community with compassion and respect.
White Bird Clinic’s employees are now grieving the loss of their jobs and the mission of the organization.
You can Follow @wbfrnestunion to stay up to date on the workers’ struggle. SOLIDARITY WITH WHITE BIRD WORKERS!SOLIDARITY WITH WHITE BIRD CLIENTS! https://www.instagram.com/p/DClWeGAxcWW/
You can find information on White Bird Clinic’s budget at Pro Publica Nonprofit Explorer. https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/930585814
Former Albany Teacher Arrested for Sex Crimes
On Wednesday, December 11, 2024 an inappropriate sexual relationship between a former high school teacher and high school student was brought to the attention of a School Resource Officer. Officers investigated the allegations and on Friday, December 13, 2024 arrested Duece Keey Loi Phaly, age 28, of Albany. He was arrested for 10 counts of Sex Abuse II and 1 count of Sex Abuse III.
The inappropriate sexual relationship began in 2022 when Phaly was working as a math teacher and wrestling coach at South Albany High School while the juvenile victim was a student. Phaly was a teacher and coach from 2018-2022. He is currently lodged at the Linn County Jail.
Sex crimes against children are especially heinous and require an extremely thorough investigation. The Greater Albany Public School District has worked cooperatively with the Albany Police Department to ensure a complete examination into this matter is completed. We believe there may be additional victims and anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Officer Gina Bell at 541-791-0070.
5th Street Holiday Festivities:
🎄 5th Street Public Market: Snow shows every Friday & Saturday at 6pm
🎄 5th Street Market Ally: Light Shows to Music Tues-Sun at 6:45pm
🎄 5th Street Market Ally: Movies in the Market- Mondays at 6pm: December 9th – HOME ALONE December 16th – THE GRINCH December 23rd – ELF
Tips To Purchase a Permit to Cut Your Christmas Tree From an Oregon National Forest
The holiday season is upon us, which means the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree is on. For those looking to bring home a real tree, permits are available now for all Oregon national forests.
Christmas tree permits are available for purchase online at recreation.gov (with an added $2.50 processing fee charged by the website) and at local U.S. Forest Service offices or from local vendors.
Permits are $5 each, and each permit allows the cutting of one Christmas tree. Households can purchase a maximum of five permits.
For downloadable maps of tree-cutting areas and a list of local vendors selling tree permits, go to bit.ly/WNFtree .
Fourth-grade students can receive a free tree permit by getting their Every Kid Outdoors pass and entering the voucher or pass number when prompted on Recreation.gov or by visiting a Forest Service office.
𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗼𝗿𝘀: 𝗟𝗮𝘇𝘆 𝗗𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰. 𝟭𝟭
The Lazy Days Mobile Home and RV Park, rebuilt by Homes for Good after the Holiday Farm Fire, has 20 2-bedroom modular homes that are available to rent for Holiday Farm Fire survivors.
You may be eligible if: 
You were a renter who lost your primary residence in the Holiday Farm Fire. You lost the home you owned in the Holiday Farm Fire and you either did not own the property it was on or you owned the property but it is now unbuildable.
𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟭 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲, 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗶𝘀. Applicants should be at no more than 80% of the Area Median. For example, 80% AMI means:2 people = $57,050 annual income 4 people = $71,300 annual income Rent is $1000 per month and includes utilities (water, sewer, garbage). Two ADA-accessible units are available.
Funding to provide the modular homes to fire survivors is provided by Oregon Housing & Community Services. Homes for Good is property owner and has led construction on the site. Lane County is assisting with the application process. 
Learn more: http://www.homesforgood.org/…/lazy-days-rv-and-mobile…
Apply starting December 11: www.cognitoforms.com/LaneCounty1/LazyDaysApplication
LRAPA BURN ADVISORY #lanecounty – Burning prohibited until Spring 2025 based on LRAPA info below.
BURNING OVERVIEWThe Lane Regional Air Protection Agency is responsible for overseeing burning programs in Lane County. LRAPA administers a Home Wood Heating advisory program and an Outdoor Burning advisory program.
Home Wood Heating is the burning of wood in fireplaces and wood stoves for heat. Wood burning creates particulate matter, which is Lane County’s most common form of pollution, and can dramatically degrade air quality during periods of air stagnation when many home wood heating devices are in use. LRAPA issues daily green, yellow, and red burn advisories from October 1 2024 through May 31, 2025 based on air quality conditions. These advisories permit, limit, or restrict the use of fireplaces and wood stoves.Home Wood Heating Advisory Line: (541) 746-4328
Outdoor burning is the disposal of woody yard material by burning it. Burning rules vary throughout Lane County depending on location, size of property, weather forecast, and fire danger conditions. LRAPA rules also limit the type and quantity of debris which can be burned. LRAPA issues daily burn advisories during burn season. Always check this page or call the advisory line before burning. Outdoor Burning Advisory Line: (541) 726-3976 Coastal Outdoor Burning Advisory Line: (541) 997-1757 https://www.lrapa.org/air-quality…/burning-overview/
Declutter and donate to reduce holiday waste: BRING now collecting reusable materials at Lane County’s Glenwood Transfer Station to reduce holiday season waste
With the holiday season here, BRING encourages residents to clear out their old, reusable items to make room for the new. This year, Lane County residents can donate directly at the Glenwood Transfer Station, where BRING recently opened a donation site in partnership with Lane County Waste Management and St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County. This site offers residents a convenient one-stop solution for donating, recycling, and disposing of household and building materials, promoting reuse while reducing landfill waste.
With increased holiday activities, waste generation can increase by as much as 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. BRING and Waste Wise Lane County—a part of Lane County Waste Management—encourage the community to consider sustainable practices like reuse, especially during high-waste times of the year. BRING’s new collection site allows residents to easily donate gently used building materials, garden supplies, furniture, tools, and more, helping these items find new life and reducing their environmental impact.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that construction and demolition (C&D) debris accounts for more than twice the amount of municipal solid waste, with 600 million tons of C&D debris generated annually in the United States. BRING’s efforts at the Glenwood site and its main location are part of a larger initiative to help Lane County achieve its goal of recovering 63 percent of its waste stream through reuse, recycling, and composting.
Since the Glenwood donation site opened in August, BRING has already diverted 32,579 pounds of reusable materials from the landfill. By donating at this auxiliary location, community members can contribute to BRING’s Planet Improvement Center, which provides affordable, environmentally-friendly options for local DIYers, contractors, and residents looking to repurpose quality materials.
Residents planning renovations or holiday declutter projects are encouraged to gather reusable materials for donation and save a trip by combining it with their visit to the transfer station. For a full list of accepted items or to learn more about the waste reduction initiative, visit www.bringrecycling.org.
About BRING: BRING is a Eugene-based home and garden thrift store committed to recovering construction waste and building materials from the waste stream, providing environmental education to Lane County communities, and highlighting the importance of reuse. Today, we focus on the urgent issues of consumption, climate change, and community resiliency. Through these initiatives we fulfill our mission to provide vision, leadership and tools for living well on the planet we share. BRING has consistently been voted one of the “100 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon.”
About Waste Wise Lane County: Waste Wise Lane County— a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.
The Annual Willamette Valley Ornament Hunt
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
Eugene Police Department – Embrace the season of giving by donating hoodies to high school-aged kids!
As temperatures drop, let’s wrap our community in warmth and kindness. Clean out those closets and drop off your gently used or new hoodies at our designated collection points.For those who prefer a convenient option, consider donating gift cards that will be used to purchase hoodies.
Send your gift cards to the Eugene Police Department:Community Engagement Supervisor, Cherie Nelson300 Country Club Rd. Eugene, OR 97401 Your contribution will ensure teenagers stay snug and stylish this winter. Let’s come together to make a difference—one hoodie at a time!
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)
Starting in the new year, White Bird Dental Clinic will offer more walk-in clinic times. Currently, we offer walk-in clinics at 1415 Pearl St. every Monday and Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. In January, we will also add every other Friday at 7:30 a.m. Find more information at whitebirdclinic.org/dental
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.
For more information on Operation Winter Survival Stockpile, please contact Maria Cortez at ia.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov“>Maria.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov
Youth Empowerment Programs, City of Eugene – We’re thrilled to announce that our Winter-Spring 2025 Youth Empowerment Programs will be launching soon! 
Registration opens on December 10th for our FREE programs.
Some programs are drop-in, so no registration is required—just show up and get involved!
For more information and links to register, visit our website: https://www.eugene-or.gov/4888/Youth-Empowerment-Program
Holiday Shipping Guide: Your Last-Minute Dates for USPS, FedEx, UPS and Amazon Shipping
Doing some last-minute shopping? Don’t wait. As of today, you still have time to ship your gifts so they’ll arrive before Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. You’re going to need to act quickly, though. The first deadlines that will guarantee on-time delivery are coming up this week, and you need to be prepared.
FedEx shipping deadlines to arrive by Dec. 25, 2024
With Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, you’ll be able to take take advantage of overnight shipping from FedEx on Monday, Dec. 23. In a pinch, you can also ship FedEx SameDay on Tuesday, Dec. 24, to get your package delivered by Christmas. FedEx Express Saver, 2Day and 3Day deadlines are all the week before Christmas, and the FedEx Ground deadline is two weeks before, on Dec. 17.
Here are the dates FedEx recommends you ship by (PDF) to have your packages arrive on or before Dec. 25 in the US.
FedEx holiday shipping deadlines
| Domestic service | Ship date |
|---|---|
| Ground | Dec. 17 |
| Express Saver | Dec. 19 |
| 2Day and 2Day AM* | Dec. 20 |
| First Overnight and Priority Overnight* | Dec. 23 |
| SameDay | Dec. 24 |
*You can send FedEx 2Day and FedEx 2Day AM one day later on Saturday, Dec. 21, with an optional Saturday Delivery surcharge for $16 per package.
UPS shipping deadlines to arrive by Dec. 25, 2024
As with FedEx, UPS shipping deadlines are a little more reasonable this week, with the holiday landing on a Wednesday instead of a Monday, as it did in 2023. You’ll need to send your very last packages by Dec. 23 to make sure they arrive by Dec. 25. Here are UPS’ recommended shipping dates (PDF) for Christmas 2023.
UPS holiday shipping deadlines
| Domestic service | Ship date |
|---|---|
| Ground | Check the UPS website for deadlines |
| 3-Day Select | Dec. 19 |
| 2nd Day Air | Dec. 20 |
| Next Day Air | Dec. 23 |
USPS shipping deadlines for Dec. 25, 2024
The US Postal Service deadlines for shipping Christmas packages also a bit more favorable for last-minute shopping this year. Here are the dates the US Postal Service recommends you circle on your calendar if you want packages to arrive before Dec. 25, including for Alaska and Hawaii.
USPS holiday shipping deadlines
| Domestic service | Date (excluding Alaska and Hawaii) | Date for Alaska | Date for Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS Retail Ground | Dec. 18 | Dec. 16 | Dec. 16 |
| First-Class Mail | Dec. 18 | Dec. 18 | Dec. 18 |
| Priority Mail | Dec. 19 | Dec. 19 | Dec. 19 |
| Priority Mail Express | Dec. 21 | Dec. 20 | Dec. 20 |
Amazon estimated shipping deadlines for Dec. 25, 2024
You may be able to streamline the shopping and mailing process by ordering straight from Amazon and shipping the package directly to your giftee. But heads up: Amazon has a habit of waiting until much closer to Christmas before it lists its holiday shipping deadlines. We can extrapolate the deadline this year from shipping dates for preceding holiday seasons.
Note that these are estimated delivery dates. If it were us, and Christmas was close, we might not risk everything on those one-day and same-day delivery dates and instead send an electronic gift certificate. All shipping dates except for e-gift cards and free shipping in five to eight days are exclusively for Prime members.
One thing to look for: Amazon said Same-Day Delivery is available in more than 90 metro areas, so check whether your area has Same-Day Delivery. You can also look for “free delivery today” next to the product name. And each Amazon product listing page will also provide an estimated shipping date.
Amazon holiday shipping deadlines
| Shipping type | Deadline to buy | Date delivered |
|---|---|---|
| Free shipping | Dec. 14 | Dec. 24 |
| 2-day shipping (Prime) | Dec. 22 | Dec. 24 |
| 1-day shipping (Prime) | Dec. 23 | Dec. 24 |
| Same day delivery (Prime) | Dec. 24 | Dec. 24 |
| e-Gift card delivery | Dec. 25 | Dec. 25 |
How to ship packages to arrive in time for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa this year
Shipping companies don’t generally list specific deadlines for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. However, since both holidays mostly align with Christmas this year, you can use the same deadlines.
Hanukkah starts on the evening of Dec. 25 this year, and Kwanzaa begins the next day on Dec. 26. If you want any Hanukkah or Kwanzaa packages to arrive before the holiday begins, use the shipping deadlines for Christmas.
Nothing is guaranteed, and storms and package supply shortages may result in shipping delays, as happened a few years ago.
To make sure your packages are safely delivered, here’s how to guard against porch pirates. (SOURCE)
Oregon Advocates See Overreach In Local Camping Restrictions in Grants Pass For Homeless After Court Ruling
Chain link fences ring the perimeters of the two designated homeless camping areas in Grants Pass. The two sites are the only spots where city officials allow homeless camping after they successfully defended their local camping ordinance before the U.S. Supreme Court.
In June, the nation’s highest court ruled in favor of Grants Pass, deciding that cities could impose criminal penalties without running afoul of constitutional provisions against cruel and unusual punishment.
Since then, city officials have limited where about 600 homeless people can pitch a tent or sleep to just two locations in the city of 39,000.
The new limitations have alarmed disability rights advocates and volunteer medical outreach workers who treat the people staying there.
“We have to stop blaming the people who’ve been forced to live outside because of this massive housing shortage, not just blaming them, but vilifying them and arresting them and jailing them,” said Edward Johnson with the Oregon Law Center who represented the plaintiffs before the Supreme Court.
Mayor Sara Bristol said having two sites is intended to keep smaller ones from popping up throughout Grants Pass and provide a temporary location while working toward long-term goals like shelter beds.
Broadly, Grants Pass shows how cities across the U.S. are challenged with crafting local camping ordinances that balance the rights of unhoused people with competing interests, from business owners to those with disabilities trying to access a sidewalk without obstacles blocking their way.
What’s more, a lack of adequate shelter beds falls far short of the nation’s growing homeless population, which was 653,104 people in a point-in-time count in January 2023. The system has about 218,000 fewer shelter beds than necessary, that report found.
As homelessness becomes more political, rhetoric during elections conflate homelessness with crime, leading candidates to promise to get tough on the issue, Johnson said. Once considered allies, Democratic leaders find themselves under pressure to respond in their communities, with some weighing President-elect Donald Trump’s stance of clearing camps and relocating people to land with some social services.
But that’s not a solution. “It may be a short-term solution to getting reelected, but it is not going to end homelessness,” he said.
After the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, Grants Pass city officials enacted a new policy designating homeless camping to the two lots nearly a mile apart, instead of any city park. What’s more, people can only stay in each spot for seven days. This means they must move between the two locations every week. (READ MORE)
Murdock Trust Announces Grants to Oregon Nonprofits
Today, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust published its Summer 2024 Grants Report. The report announces:
- 74 total grants to Pacific Northwest nonprofits totaling $20,745,200.
- This includes more than $6.2 million through 22 grants to nonprofits serving the Oregon community.
- The report can be found here. A full list of grantees can be found here.
The M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust is a private, nonprofit foundation that has invested more than $1.4 billion in nonprofits serving the Pacific Northwest since 1975. For details, please visit our website murdocktrust.org.
Frito-Lay Recalls Lay’s Classic Potato Chips In Oregon, Washington Over Undeclared Milk
Frito-Lay announced on Dec. 16 that it had issued a voluntary recall of a limited number of 13-oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips due to the potential presence of undeclared milk. The recall follows a consumer contact who alerted the company to the issue.
Individuals with allergies or severe sensitivities to milk are at risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume the affected product.
The recall applies specifically to 13-oz. Lay’s Classic Potato Chips distributed to retail stores and e-commerce platforms in Oregon and Washington. The chips were available for purchase beginning Nov. 3, 2024.
The recalled chips can be identified by their “Guaranteed Fresh” date of Feb. 11, 2025, and specific manufacturing codes listed as 6462307xx or 6463307xx. The product’s UPC is 28400 31041.
Frito-Lay has emphasized that the recall does not affect other Lay’s products, flavors, sizes, or variety packs.
The chips are packaged in flexible bags, and the company has provided detailed instructions for identifying the recalled product. Consumers who have purchased the affected chips are urged not to consume them and to discard them immediately.
No allergic reactions related to this issue have been reported to date. Frito-Lay notified the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about the recall as part of its safety protocol.
Consumers with questions or concerns about the recall are encouraged to contact Frito-Lay Consumer Relations at 1-800-352-4477. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4:30 pm CST.
This recall is a precautionary measure to protect individuals with milk allergies. Before consuming the product, consumers are advised to carefully check their chip bags for the specified date codes and manufacturing numbers.
Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Response to Concerning Letters Circulating
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office recently learned about a letter being circulated throughout Lincoln County which encourages community members to track and report information regarding people of color, specifically community members that are believed to be undocumented. We want to be unequivocal in our stance: this type of behavior is harmful, divisive, and inconsistent with the values we uphold as public servants and community members. Targeting individuals in this manner erodes trust and undermines the sense of safety and inclusion that we strive to maintain in Lincoln County.
One of the things we tell each person when they join our team is to “do the right thing”. We are encouraging our community members to do the right thing and use compassion as we encounter these types of messages. We strongly advise against engaging in activities such as those outlined in this letter, including collecting or sharing information about individuals based on their demographic or perceived immigration status.
In addition to valuing diversity and equity, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is committed to upholding Oregon law with regard to immigration enforcement. Oregon law generally prohibits the inquiry or collection of an individual’s immigration or citizenship status, or country of birth, with few specific exceptions as outlined in Oregon Revised Statute 181A.823. Consistent with this, the Sheriff’s Office does not inquire about, document, or share such information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These provisions are embedded in our policy manual and are essential to ensuring that our practices respect the rights and dignity of all individuals.
The mission of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is to enhance public safety, reduce the fear and impact of crime, and improve the quality of life for all. We are committed to continuous learning and growth to better serve every member of our community. Diversity strengthens our communities, and we take pride in growing and thriving alongside the people we serve.
New facial illustration released in Clatsop County cold case – Public assistance sought to identify remains
With the assistance of a new facial re-approximation from Parabon NanoLabs, a 25-year-old Oregon State Police (OSP) cold case is receiving new attention. Working closely with Oregon State Police Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Nici Vance, Parabon used the individual’s genetic phenotype to create the latest illustration.
On Nov. 3, 1999, mushroom pickers reported the discovery of human skeletal remains in rural Clatsop County. The unidentified partial remains were located in a wooded area off Hwy. 26 near milepost 29. At the time, searchers located remains over a wide area, including a skull and lower jaw with all the teeth present.
A forensic examination of the skeletal remains indicated the deceased is female, 16-30 years of age, about 5 ft. 2 in. tall, and weighing between 108-117 pounds. Forensic anthropologists believe the individual had given birth some time prior.
Investigators also found white athletic socks, Levi’s blue jeans size 33×34, a medium-sized black leather jacket, and a silver-colored “peace symbol” belt buckle in the same wooded area.
Investigators hope the new illustration will help renew interest in the case to determine the young woman’s identity. “This new illustration created by Parabon NanoLabs may be the key to unlocking her identity; we hope someone may recognize her now. We also know her ancestry includes relatives from Western Europe, West Africa, and Central America, which are huge clues to her origins and family. Everyone deserves the dignity of a name; through our partnership with Parabon NanoLabs, we will continue to search for her family and ultimately identify her.”
Since 2019, Parabon and the Oregon State Police have partnered to identify more than 30 previously unidentified individuals in Oregon using Parabon’s groundbreaking technology and investigative genetic genealogy research.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective Derek Rose through OSP’s Northern Command Center at 800-442-0776 or *OSP (*677) on a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP99433623.
AAA expects 119 million Americans including nearly 1.7 million Oregonians to travel for the holidays
– AAA projects 119.3 million Americans (35% of the population) including 1.68 million Oregonians will travel 50 miles or more for the Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year holidays. This year’s travel volume narrowly beats the previous record set in 2019 by 64,000 travelers. AAA expects an additional three million travelers this holiday season compared to last year.
The year-end holiday travel period is defined as Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, through Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025.
“With Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, many are taking the entire week off or working remotely so they can extend their holiday break,” says Doreen Loofburrow. “Travel demand has been strong all year, and now we’ll finish 2024 setting a new record for holiday travel,” says Doreen Loofburrow, senior vice president of travel for AAA Oregon/Idaho.
“AAA expects travel volumes to soar this holiday season, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers, as Americans drive, fly and cruise to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah and ring in 2025. Expect busy roads and crowded airports, pack your patience, and have a plan B as weather is always the wildcard this time of year,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.
Most travelers will drive – About 90% of travelers or 107 million Americans will drive to their holiday destinations. This is 2.5 million more than in 2023 but just shy of 2019’s record of 108 million. In Oregon, about 1.5 million will drive. Driving is often the most flexible and affordable way to travel, which is why it’s the number one mode. It’s especially appealing for families with small children.
Air travel to soar to record high – Air travel sets a record this holiday season, with 7.85 million Americans including 160,000 Oregonians taking to the skies. This surpasses the previous record of 7.5 million air travelers last year. In all, about 6.6% of all holiday travelers will fly to their destinations. Find AAA’s tips and advice for air travelers below.
Other modes will see highest volumes in 20 years – Travel by other modes, including cruises, trains and buses, will be the highest in 20 years with nearly 4.5 million travelers including about 62,000 Oregonians. This is up nearly 10% from last year. Domestic cruise bookings are up 37% compared to last holiday season. In all, about 3.7% of all travelers will go by these modes. Cruises are very popular over the holidays because they appeal to multiple generations and there’s something for everyone on board.
Top holiday destinations – These are the trending destinations for regional, domestic and international travel for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho based on bookings by our AAA travel agents and at AAA.com.
Theme parks, beaches and European cities are among the most popular spots. Bend tops the list as the most popular regional destination again this year.
Gas prices are cheapest for the holidays in four years
Those taking a holiday road trip will find gas prices at their cheapest since 2020. The current (as of Dec. 17) national average for regular unleaded is $3.03 and the Oregon average is $3.47. These prices are at or near the year-to-date lows for 2024. Visit the AAA Fuel Prices website for current gas prices and EV charging rates.
AAA members can fill up for less at Shell stations when they join the Fuel Rewards® program at AAA.com/Shell. Save 30¢/gal on your first fill-up at Shell when you join the Fuel Rewards® program by 12/31/25 and make your first transaction within 30 days of joining. After that, save 5¢/gal every day on each individual fill-up of up to 20 gallons from participating Shell stations. Find current fuel prices at GasPrices.AAA.com.
Best and worst times to drive; Peak traffic expected December 22 and 29 – The busiest days for road trippers are expected to be Sunday, December 22 as folks head out to their Christmas destinations, and again on Sunday, December 29 as people return home. But roads will be busier than usual throughout the holiday season with a record number of travelers going by car. The afternoon and evening hours from December 19 through December 23, and from December 26 through January 2, will all have more congestion, especially on the weekdays in urban areas as commuters mix with holiday travelers, The lightest traffic is expected on December 24 and 25.
Some metro areas across the U.S. could have travel times that are two to three times longer than typical drive times, especially in larger urban areas. In Oregon, drivers can expect that their trips will take 8% to 50% longer than a normal commute, assuming no additional delays from crashes or winter weather.
“Leave early if you can. Mornings during the holiday season are the times with the least congestion. You can also avoid the heaviest traffic by traveling on the actual holidays – December 24, 25, 31 and January 1. But with a record number of travelers taking a holiday road trip, assume traffic will be heavier than usual and that it will probably take you longer to get to your destination,” says Dodds.
AAA also recommends using traffic apps, local Department of Transportation notifications, 511 services, and local news and traffic reports to get real-time updates.
Grants available for main street building projects statewide
The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is offering grants for up to $400,000 in matching funds for downtown revitalization efforts in communities participating in the Oregon Main Street Network. The Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant funds may be used to acquire, rehabilitate, and construct buildings on properties in designated downtown areas statewide.
Funded projects must facilitate community revitalization that will lead to private investment, job creation or retention, establishing or expanding viable businesses, or creating a stronger tax base. Projects may include façade improvement, accessibility enhancement, basic utilities, second floor renovations, and more. Only organizations participating in the Oregon Main Street Network are eligible to apply. Projects must be within approved Main Street areas. Eligible organizations may collaborate with the local governments and private property owners to apply for projects that will have the biggest benefit to the downtown. The grant application deadline is March 13, 2025.
In 2015, Oregon legislation established a permanent fund for the grant and provided an initial $2.5 million of funding as part of a larger lottery bond package. The $10,000,000 lottery bond funding for this grant cycle was approved in the 2023 legislative session.
Preservation office staff is happy to talk with applicants about potential grant projects and review applications prior to submitting. A free online workshop specific to the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant will be January 9, 2025 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Registration is required.
Other resources available include:
- Prepping for the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant – with tips for organizational preparation and project planning and selection.
- Heritage Bulletin: Board Involvement with Grants – with tips on organizational success for grant management.
- Secretary of Interior Standards for Historic Rehabilitation – A webinar to share with the team and property owners.
To learn more about the grant and workshop, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov“>Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-6085. To learn more about the Oregon Main Street Network contact Sheri Stuart at i.Stuart@oprd.oregon.gov“>Sheri.Stuart@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0679.
Oregon’s Nonfarm Payroll Employment Rises by 5,100 in November
In November, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment gained 5,100 jobs, following a revised increase of 3,500 jobs in October. November’s gains were largest in health care and social assistance (+2,300 jobs); construction (+2,100); and professional and business services (+700). Declines were largest in leisure and hospitality (-700 jobs).
Private health care and social assistance has been adding jobs very rapidly since June 2022. It expanded by 41,700 jobs, or 15.6%, during that 29-month period. The fastest growing components during that time were social assistance (+17,800 jobs, or 27.0%) and nursing and residential care facilities (+9,400 jobs, or 19.3%). The other two component industries also added jobs, but grew less rapidly: hospitals (+6,800 jobs, or 11.9%) and ambulatory health care services (+10,200 jobs, or 10.7%).
Construction rebounded in November from a three-month dip, returning the sector’s total employment to 117,500, about where it had been from July 2022 through August 2024.
In the past 12 months, health care and social assistance (+17,500 jobs, or 6.0%) grew rapidly, while government (+6,900 jobs, or 2.2%) added the second most jobs. In that time, only two major industries declined by 1,000 jobs or more: retail trade (-1,700 jobs, or -0.8%) and leisure and hospitality (-1,400 jobs, or -0.7%). About half of the major industries were essentially flat over the year, with job changes of less than 1,200 in either direction.
Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.1% in November and 4.0% in October and has consistently remained between 4.0% and 4.2% since October 2023. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in November and 4.1% in October.
AmeriCorps NCCC Partnership Boosts Oregon’s Emergency Response
Join us in strengthening Oregon’s resilience by hosting an AmeriCorps NCCC team to support your community’s disaster response and recovery efforts!
Oregon is taking a significant step forward in enhancing its emergency response capabilities through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between OregonServes and the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). This strategic partnership represents a collaborative effort to bolster statewide disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
For more information on this partnership contact: Jennifer Denning Disaster Services Coordinator, OregonServes Jennifer.l.denning@hecc.oregon.gov.
What is AmeriCorps NCCC?
AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, team-based program for young adults aged 18-26. Members commit to a term of national service, which can include critical disaster response and recovery services. Through this partnership, NCCC teams will be integrated into Oregon’s disaster preparedness framework, offering vital support before, during, and after disasters.
Key Benefits of the Partnership:
This partnership brings several critical advantages to Oregon communities, including:
- NCCC teams work on a variety of projects filling critical gaps in local resources.
- NCCC members collaborate with local communities to strengthen response efforts, thereby accelerating recovery and repopulation of residents.
- NCCC teams focus on ensuring that underserved and vulnerable populations receive critical resources and assistance during emergencies, bridging equity gaps in disaster response and recovery.
- By integrating local resources with national service members, this partnership enhances Oregon’s capacity to build resilient communities.
Key Dates:
Nationally, NCCC Disaster Service Applications are received throughout the year. For purposes of the NCCC-OregonServes MOU, Pacific Region teams or Summer of Service can serve during these timelines (precise dates will vary year-to-year):
- November 1 – December 16
- January 8- April 16
- April 24 – July 23 (Traditional program applications due, February 7, 2025)
- Summer of Service June 20 – August 1
How to Apply to Be a Disaster Response AmeriCorps Volunteer:
First, download the application instructions below. Then, complete the Service Project Application for Disaster Response. No Project Concept Form is required.
Please note: Download the following document directly to your computer. Open and complete the document using Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat.
Applications and questions should be submitted to: NCCCPRTerritory2@americorps.gov.
Want to Make Your Organization a Project Sponsor?
Nonprofit and faith-based organizations, government entities, public schools, and universities, as well as tribal and native nations are eligible to apply. Organizations complete an application detailing the need and project design and NCCC will review submissions and make a final determination. To learn more about AmeriCorps NCCC and how to apply, please visit the AmeriCorps NCCC webpage.
A high surf advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 1:52 a.m. valid from Saturday 7 a.m. until Monday 10 p.m. for Clatsop County Coast, Tillamook County Coast and Central Coast of Oregon.
“Large waves and hazardous surf conditions. Breakers up to 25 to 30 feet,” can be anticipated according to the weather service. “The largest breakers during this period are expected on Monday associated with the arrival of an energetic westerly swell.”
“Destructive waves may wash over beaches, jetties, and other structures unexpectedly. People can be swept off rocks and jetties and drown while observing high surf. Minor beach erosion may damage coastal properties and buildings. Higher than normal water run-up is expected on beaches and low-lying shoreline. Enhanced possibility for sneaker waves,” explains the weather service. “A High Surf Advisory means that high surf will affect beaches, producing rip currents, sneaker waves and beach erosion. Stay well back from the water’s edge and be alert for exceptionally high waves. Keep away from large logs on the beach. Water running up on the beach can easily lift or roll logs which can injure or kill someone caught in their path.”
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
A 21 year old man was arrested on murder charges by local law enforcement
yesterday and booked into the Klamath County jail.
Jail records indicate he was taken
into custody on Oregon highway 39 at milepost 13 by Oregon State police and booked
into the facility at 12:15am Thursday morning. Tyrone Anthony Cadotte was charged
with first-degree murder and first-degree assault charges. No information about the
details of the case has been released by any local law enforcement agency.
If you have someone on your holiday gift list that enjoys the outdoors, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has gift ideas.
If they hunt or fish, you can buy them a license. If they kayak or raft, you can buy a waterway access permit. For wildlife viewers or hikers, the wildlife area parking permit costs 30 dollars. You can also make a donation in someone’s name to the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund. https://myodfw.com/articles/gift-outdoors
Oregon State Parks Offering Discounted Parking Passes – Give the gift of the outdoors and save this season with the Oregon State Parks 12-month parking permit sale during December.
Shoppers can buy the annual parking permits for only $25 (regularly $30) from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31. The permit is good for 12 months starting in the month of purchase at the 25 parks that currently charge for parking.
The annual permit is an even better option for frequent park visitors in 2025 when day-use parking fees will increase from $5 to $10 on Jan. 2, 2025.
Purchasing permits is easy. Visitors can buy them online at Oregon State Parks store. They’re also available at select park stores operated by friends’ groups, park visitor centers and local businesses throughout the state. For a complete list, visit stateparks.oregon.gov.
The daily parking fee is required at the 25 parks that charge for day-use parking unless visitors have a 12-month or 24-month parking permit or a same-day camping receipt. The parking fee does not apply to those who hike, bike or use public transportation.
The 24-month permit is $50 and is also available at OregonStateParkStore. The cost for the 12-month and 24-month permits is not currently increasing. The permits are transferable from vehicle to vehicle.
Ways to get and give help this holiday season
‘Tis the season for connection and caring for one another. But we also know this time of year can be challenging for many families. So whether you need a little extra support, or are looking for ways to give back to your community, we’ve got some suggestions to make the holiday season special.
Ways to get holiday help:
1. Visit the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) holiday resources webpage
Our 2024 holiday resources webpage has a list of local organizations that can provide hot meals, toys, winter clothes and more for families and individuals this holiday season. The page is available in English and Spanish, and you can sort the list by county to find resources in your area.
2. Connect with 211info
Not seeing anything near you on our list? Dial 2-1-1 to connect with someone who can guide you to the support you need. You can also visit 211info.org, enter your zip code, and search for “Holiday Gifts/Toys,” “Christmas Baskets,” or “Christmas Meals.”
3. Reach out to your local ODHS office
We’re here to help! Our local office staff often know about upcoming events and resources in your community. We can also help you learn more about services that be accessed year-round, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Oregon Health Plan (OHP), and more.
Ways to give holiday help:
1. Donate to ODHS or a community organization
ODHS partners with many community organizations that collect donations, like food, clothes, and toys, that support children in foster care, older adults, families in need, and more. For 2024, we’ve compiled a list with some of the ways you can donate to help the families ODHS serves. Don’t see anything on the list in your area? Contact your local ODHS office for more suggestions. You can also make a financial contribution to ODHS and specify how you want it to be used by emailing dhs.volunteerservices@odhs.oregon.gov.
2. Volunteer
Your time is one of the most valuable gifts you can give. At ODHS, we have several temporary volunteer opportunities this holiday season for things like wrapping donations, delivering gifts, and helping at holiday parties for children in ODHS care. Email dhs.volunteerservices@odhs.oregon.gov to learn about holiday openings or to get involved longer-term. If that’s not for you, we also recommend reaching out to local nonprofits or community centers with missions you believe in to see how you can help.
3. Build community connections
Sometimes, the best way to give back is by simply showing up. Attend local events, check in on your neighbors, and spread the word about the ways to get help that we listed above. A little kindness and connection can go a long way!
Winter Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon Coast Dec. 27-31
OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week on the Oregon Coast Friday, Dec. 27 through Tuesday, Dec. 31.
Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales on their southward migration to the calving lagoons in Mexico.
The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online at the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching
“Now is a perfect time to see the whales as their population rebounds on the Oregon Coast,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales. Since then, the estimated population has increased by roughly 30% from 14,530 last year to 19,260 this year, according to NOAA. The numbers are on the rise overall, but the calf count is still low as the population continues to rebound.
“While there are more gray whales to see now on the Oregon Coast, the calves remain a rare and important sight,” said Michael Milstein, public affairs officer with NOAA Fisheries.
Winter Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and rangers.
The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. 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 always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.
For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.
Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch Week on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch24.
Holiday Express Steams Up – Rides run every Friday – Sunday through Jan. 4.
The countdown is on! The first day of the highly anticipated Holiday Express is almost here, and it’s your chance to ride a train pulled by a historic steam locomotive—an unforgettable experience like no other.
Santa’s nearly ready—list checked, elves prepped, lights sparkling, and candy canes in hand. The only thing missing is YOU!
Get your tickets now for this beloved annual tradition. Create lasting memories with friends and family aboard the Holiday Express. Rides begin Nov. 29 and run every Friday – Sunday through Jan. 4.
Special Offer: Get 10% off select rides from Nov. 29 to Dec. 8! But don’t wait, tickets are selling fast.
Be part of the magic this holiday season. Reserve your seat today! Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Guided First Day Hikes at 30 Oregon State Parks on New Year’s Day
— Whether you prefer a sunset hike along the coast or a paved wooded trail inside city limits, First Day Hikes has a hike for you on New Year’s Day, Wednesday Jan. 1.
Rangers and volunteers will lead 37 guided First Day Hikes at 30 parks around the state with distances ranging from a quarter-mile stroll to a 5-mile trek. Hikes are free, and the $5 day-use parking fee is waived on that day at the state parks that charge for parking.
America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.
“First Day Hikes has become a fun tradition for both visitors and staff on New Year’s Day. Rangers and volunteers get a chance to share park history, geology, wildlife and plants, and visitors get to experience an adventure with friends and family to start the new year,” said Lisa Sumption, director of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration including Champoeg, Detroit Lake, Emigrant Springs and Smith Rock.
If you have questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations needed for you to participate in a hike, see contact information for each of the hikes.
Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.
Share photos of First Day Hikes on Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikesor tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.
About America’s State Parks
America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With collectively more than 9,817 park areas covering over 20 million acres of land, and visitation of nearly 9 million people annually, state park systems across the country are an integral part of protecting natural and cultural resources while providing guests amazing access to the outdoors. Learn more about America’s State Parks at stateparks.org.
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
