Willamette Valley News, Monday 2/3 – Federal Funding Update From Lane County, Homes For Good Opens New Housing Community for Fire Survivors & Other Local and Statewide News…

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, February 3, 2025

Willamette Valley Weather

Stay updated with the National Weather Service for the latest information on evolving conditions.

https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php

Federal Funding Update From Lane County

Lane County is closely monitoring changes at the federal level and any effect they may have on the services we provide to our community. At this time, there are no changes to our services, including at our Community Health Centers of Lane County.

At Lane County, we are guided by values regularly reaffirmed over the past 25 years by the Board of County Commissioners as part of our strategic plan: integrity, excellence, equity and respect.

Lane County continues to comply with federal and state law. Please remember, state law prohibits local governments and law enforcement agencies from sharing information with federal agencies regarding immigration enforcement without a signed judicial order. Lane County continues to ensure all medical privacy laws are enforced to fullest extent of the law.

Patients of the Community Health Centers of Lane County are encouraged to keep existing appointments and continue making future appointments. For patients enrolled in a Medicaid health plan, all insurances are still available and paying for services. Telehealth services are available in many cases. If a patient has questions about their individual care, they should contact their provider directly or reach out to the call center at 541-682-3550.

As we continue to learn more about how current and future executive orders and rule-making might affect Lane County services, information will be available at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/ServiceLevels. We remain committed to improving lives in our community.

Homes For Good Opens New Housing Community for Fire Survivors On Mckenzie River

Homes for Good held a grand opening to celebrate a completely rebuilt housing community of brightly painted modular houses on the former site of Lazy Days RV Park.

The new Lazy Days Community was built by Homes for Good. Executive Director Jacob Fox said the houses have fire-resistant metal roofs and concrete siding. He added that the units are footprinted away from vegetation and the landscape design is intentional. Also, there are water tanks and generators on the property so that if there was another fire event, he said, the sprinklers could still be run.

Fox said the two-bedroom modular homes are designed for up to a family of four.

“We have 20 [units] here today that are ready to move into,” he said. “And then we have 10 more smaller units that we’re about to order and we will have them available in April.”

Fox said first priority will go to applicants displaced by the fire. Immediate priority goes to people who lost their mobile home or RV when the Holiday Farm fire tore through Lazy Days. “Second priority,” he said, “will be people in the fire footprint, who were displaced.”

Homes for Good is Lane County’s housing agency. It works with Oregon Housing and Community Services and assigned case managers to help individuals and families who were displaced by the Holiday Farm Fire connect with housing opportunities.

Fox said from the outset, the new Lazy Days community will be a combination of renters and homeowners with “rent to own” opportunities for residents.

“And the ultimate goal is that this park would be owned and maintained and managed by the people who live here,” he said.

Lane County Commissioner Heather Buch represents District 5—East Lane County. At the event, she noted the numerous grand openings she’s attended over the last year as the Blue River community continues to rebuild itself.

“Lane County is committed to the long-term recovery of the McKenzie River community,” Buch said. “It is in my heart and I am profoundly honored to work on behalf of the people who live here and support their recovery.”

Sophia Francia read aloud a joint letter from Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden. In part, the letter said: “The journey to this point has been long and challenging. In the face of adversity, the community has shown incredible resilience and determination.”

Francia, who works in Merkley’s office, read on. “Lazy Days is taking tangible steps toward the future where everyone has access to a safe affordable home. To the fire survivors here today, your strength and perseverance is an inspiration to us all.”

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) director Andrea Bell spoke of the humanity of the McKenzie River community. “Part of what I want to offer you all today is a deep sense of gratitude. Gratitude for your compassion for one another. We are here in the rain and the cold because we are united by a common cause. That common cause is one of humanity, it’s one of compassion. When a challenge comes our way—we know that we have a group of people who will bring our best.”

While the majority of the attendees of the Grand Opening were locals, several out-of-town folks arrived by bus. LTD provided free rides from Eugene to the site at 52511 McKenzie Highway, Blue River.

About the Lazy Days site – The Lazy Days Mobile Home and RV Park, with 21 mobile home spaces and 15 RV spaces, was completely destroyed during the Holiday Farm Fire on Sept. 7, 2020.

Burned land on McKenzie River
The Lazy Days Mobile Home and RV Park, with 21 mobile home spaces and 15 RV spaces, was completely destroyed during the Holiday Farm Fire in September, 2020. The new Lazy Days housing community is built on this footprint, north of the McKenzie Highway.

Homes for Good purchased a portion of the Lazy Days park property on the north side of the McKenzie Highway in December, 2021.

Lane County approved Homes for Good to provide 20 spaces for modular/manufactured homes and an additional 10 spaces for park model RVs as well as a community building, open space and amenities like a playground. Site work started mid-June 2023.

Modular homes move-in ready – All of the new modular Homes now in place were built by IdeaBox.

The 20 modular homes ready for occupancy have numerous ADA features including bath grab bars, wide exterior and interior doors and aisle ways sized for wheelchair access. One of the homes is a certified ADA Unit with fully accessible kitchen cabinets, accessible fixtures and appliances and a fully accessible bath.

Project Funding – According to Homes for Good, most of the funding for the rebuild and construction of 30 homes at Lazy Days has come from the State of Oregon and in a joint letter, U.S. Senators Merkley and Wyden cited $1 million toward the project through the Community Initiative Project in FY 2022. Additional funding came from Lane County/Business Oregon and Department of Environmental Quality for the community septic system and a grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

A Springfield nurse, Cari Lin Mallette, who worked at  Marquis Care, a Springfield assisted living and rehabilitation facility, has appeared in the Lane County Circuit Court on claims that she took medication meant for patients at the facility.

Mallette was charged with second-degree criminal mistreatment on Friday after several Marquis Care patients reported never receiving their prescribed narcotics as prescribed. They allege that Malette told them no medication was available.

Specifically, some patients said Malette denied them oxycodone despite having a doctor’s prescription. The probable cause affidavit indicates that the patients’ s showed the medication had been administered and was removed from the narcotics storage.

Several empty pill cups with the patients’ names on them were also found in the staff-only bathroom garbage can.

Mallette, who was engaged through a temporary nursing agency and worked as a nurse in the facility, was arrested by Springfield police on January 2. She refused to be interviewed by law enforcement during the investigation.

Still, the court records indicate that Mallette allegedly told a Department of Human Services investigator that she didn’t have helpful coworkers to explain the medical charting discrepancies and was tired or was having computer problems.

Police search for woman, child abducted by armed ex-boyfriend

Salem, Ore. — At approximately 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, a woman and her young child were reported as being abducted from her apartment in southeast Salem by her estranged boyfriend.

Officers learned the suspect, identified as Javier B. Munoz, Jr., entered the apartment at gunpoint at approximately 3:00 a.m. that morning, keeping the victim and child inside. About 12 hours later, Munoz made threats to the victim, compelling her to leave with him and the child.

While actively searching for Munoz and the victim, a caller reported a man and woman struggling over a child in the 400 block of Hawthorne AV NE. Officers arrived and learned the incident involved Munoz and the victim. Munoz, who was reported to have a handgun, fled with the child on foot toward Geer Community Park.

Patrol officers flooded the area in search of the pair. The Salem Police SWAT Team and officers from multiple regional agencies provided assistance in an extensive two-and-a-half-hour search using canines and unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones.

Munoz and the child were ultimately located concealed beneath a trailer in the area of Oregon AV and Bell RD NE. The young child was uninjured and safely returned to their mother.

Javier Munoz, age 45 of Salem, was arrested on multiple related charges including first-degree kidnapping, menacing, unlawful use of a weapon, and burglary. He is currently lodged at the Polk County Jail related to multiple outstanding warrants from other cases in that county.

The Salem Police Department extends its thanks to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Oregon State Police, and the Woodburn Police Department for their assistance in the search for and apprehension of Munoz. Patrol resources were limited due to other emergency calls for service and an immigration protest occurring during the same time period.

Street takeover closes northeast Salem intersection Saturday night, five arrested

Salem, Ore. — The intersection of Lancaster DR and Market ST NE was closed at about 8:45 p.m. on Saturday, February 1 after the area was taken over illegally by a crowd of people and vehicles.

At approximately 12:00 p.m., a crowd of people gathered in the parking lots of several businesses on the four corners of the intersection of Lancaster DR and Market ST NE. The group was demonstrating against national immigration enforcement efforts.

By 2:00 p.m., the group was estimated to have 300 participants. The gathered remained relatively peaceful, although traffic in the area was congested. As the event progressed, callers reported participants throwing objects and hitting passing cars.

Eventually, more police resources were called in to address the event.

Other reports were received at about 7:00 p.m. of participants standing in the crosswalk not allowing traffic to continue, fireworks being ignited, and vehicles driving recklessly. At this point further police resources were necessary, including calling in officers from home and requesting outside agency assistance.

At about 8:30 p.m., the intersection was overtaken by drivers performing burnouts and dangerously drifting and spinning in the roadway, and nearly 50 people occupying the street.

The intersection was closed shortly afterward with north and southbound Lancaster DR closed between D ST and Sunnyview RD, east and westbound Market ST was closed between Fisher RD and Tierra DR. Cherriots buses were rerouted. Oregon State Police temporarily closed the Market ST offramp.

As specialized crowd management officers from the Mobile Response Team (MRT) arrived, the group surrounded a vehicle on Lancaster DR blocking all northbound traffic. The officers cleared the area allowing the vehicle to proceed. The protestors threw water bottles and cans of beer at Salem Police vehicles.

MRT and patrol officers contacted individuals observed engaging in criminal activity and seized one handgun.

The following five individuals were arrested on various charges including reckless driving and disorderly conduct:

  • Abram Michael Delao, age 19, Salem
  • Martin Andrew Gonzalez, age 34, Salem
  • Joshua Alexander Perez, age 18, Salem
  • Martin Arturo Galvez-Prado, age 34, Salem
  • Angel Sierra Ramos, age 30, Salem

Galvez-Prado faces an added charge of unlawful possession of a firearm.

The remaining crowd gathered on the sidewalks dispersed slowly, and traffic diminished, allowing the street closures to be lifted at approximately 11:00 p.m.

There were no reported injuries; however, officers will be conducting follow up investigations on several complaints of criminal mischief.

Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack remarked, “Saturday’s unruly protest, along with other emergency calls including an armed kidnapping, strained our limited patrol staffing resources. Multiple Salem officers were called in from home and partner agencies also responded to ensure safety was maintained and criminal offenders were appropriately held accountable.

“I am very proud of the work our officers accomplished under challenging and dangerous circumstances, yesterday’s events just being the most recent examples. I want to thank them and our regional partners for their service, dedication, and professionalism.”

For this incident, the Salem Police Department received assistance with traffic control from the Oregon State Police, and the Keizer Police Department assisted by handling calls in the city while patrol officers, MRT, and Strategic Investigations Unit detectives addressed the street take over and disorder.

Detectives Investigate Apparent Homicide/Suicide In Yoncalla

YONCALLA, Ore. – Detectives are investigating an apparent homicide/suicide in Yoncalla. 

On Friday, January 31, 2025, around 10:20 PM, a business called the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office requesting a welfare check on an employee who had not shown up for work.

Deputies responded to the residence in the 100-block of Williams Road in Yoncalla. Upon arrival, a deputy observed two persons down in the residence and forced entry. The deputy confirmed the two adult individuals were deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. 

Detectives were requested to the scene along with the Douglas County Medical Examiner’s Office. Evidence at the scene indicates that the incident is likely homicide/suicide. The names of both individuals and the details of the victim and perpetrator are being withheld at this time pending next of kin notification and further investigation. 

Additional details will be disclosed in a subsequent media release. 

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Oregon State Police, Sutherlin Police Department and North Douglas County Fire & EMS. 

Lane County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police arrest two men during Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigations

Lane County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force

Lane County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force — On January 30th, Lane County Sheriff’s detectives and Oregon State Police detectives served a search warrant at a residence in the 900 block of W. 1st Avenue in Junction City.

The suspect, Ralph Anthony Pocza, 41, was contacted and arrested. Pocza was lodged at the Lane County Jail on 10 counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the 1st Degree and 10 counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the 2nd Degree.  

Detectives then served a search warrant at a residence in the 26800 block of Petzold Road, southwest of Eugene. The suspect, Gregory John Shepherd, 60, was contacted and arrested. Shepherd was lodged at the Lane County Jail on 10 counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the 1st Degree and 10 counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the 2nd Degree.  

Both of these search warrants stemmed from separate, unrelated investigations by the Lane County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, focusing on child exploitation. Currently there is no indication of any local victims involved in these cases, and the charges are for the possession of child pornography.  

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police received assistance during these investigations from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Oregon Department of Justice.   These arrests are part of an ongoing effort by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable members of our community. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are available at this time.   LCSO Case #24-5540, OSP Case #SP24-238315

Springfield Utility Board Offers Generator Loan Programs to Enhance Customer Resilience

Although most power outages resolve quickly, major events like earthquakes, wildfires and winter storms can disrupt power for extended periods.

To assist customers with preparedness, Springfield Utility Board (SUB) is offering two new generator loan programs for its residential and small business electric customers.

“Having backup power, especially if you have a medical need, can provide peace of mind and additional safety while SUB crews work to restore power,” says Meredith Clark, community relations manager at SUB.

The new 0% interest loan programs are for portable generators and for generator transfer switches. Loans of up to $1,000 are available and customer’s repay the loan via their SUB bill.

Portable generators are particularly helpful for renters, and transfer switches assist those who want to integrate a generator into their home or business electrical system, Clark said. These devices allow customers to change the source of power from SUB’s system to an installed generator during an outage. Without a professionally installed transfer switch, the generator can back-feed electricity to SUB’s system through the main breaker and create a dangerous, even fatal, situation for line crews and customers.

SUB electric customers with a recent history of on time payments are eligible and encouraged to visit subutil.com for additional details, or to call SUB’s resource management department at 541-746-0963.

About Springfield Utility Board: Springfield Utility Board is committed to providing reliable, safe, and affordable utility services to our community. These new pilot programs are part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the resilience of our infrastructure and the safety of our customers during emergency situations. Springfield Utility Board

Eugene Public Library Foundation: 📣 Announcing the second annual Love Your Library Design Contest!

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Show your love for Eugene Public Library through art. Submit a design that can be used on promotional materials in support of our library. This year, two youth categories have been added for artists ages 17 and younger!Visit mailchi.mp/eplfoundation/lylannouncement25 to learn more and enter by March 31. Please read the contest rules before entering.

Catholic Community Services of Lane County · 🌟 Urgent Call for Donations 🌟

Our **No-Cost Clothing Closet** is running low on supplies, and we need your help to keep serving our community! 🧥👕👖We’re looking for:✅ Gently used or new clothes for all ages and sizes✅ Coats, sweaters, sweatshirts✅ Socks, gloves📍 **Drop-off Location:** 1025 G Street, Springfield, OR🕒 **Hours:** M – F 9a-12p💙 Every item you donate brings warmth, dignity, and hope to someone in need. Let’s make a difference together!➡️ Please share this post to help us spread the word!

🌨️ Hlp Us Keep Lane County Warm! ❄️

We’re launching the Cold Weather Shelter Drive to support our unhoused neighbors this winter. Donate new or gently used tents, blankets, sleeping bags, and tarps to ensure no one faces the cold alone.

📍 Donation Locations: Visit our website for a full list of drop-off locations. http://www.ccslc.org/cwsd

Or donate directly at our Springfield Service Center:
Catholic Community Services
1025 G Street, Springfield, OR.

Together, we can make a difference! 💙 Call 541-345-3628 ext 1317 for more information

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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 | Eugene OR

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.”

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

Salt Creek Falls Trip teens wearing snowshoes

✨ Registration open 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

Oregon’s Senator Wyden Sounds Alarm Over Elon Musk’s Access to Sensitive Treasury Payment System

In a news release, Wyden confirmed that he had sent Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent a letter outlining his concerns over the potential for political interference in the operation of these crucial payment systems.

Highlighting the economic risks and the imperative reasons the payment system cannot fail, Wyden said, “Any politically-motivated meddling in them risks severe damage to our country and the economy.”

Managed by the Bureau of the Fiscal Service, the treasury payment system distributes trillions of dollars annually, which fund essential state functions such as Social Security and Medicare benefits, tax credits, and payments to government contractors.

Wyden made several specific requests for details of any access granted to Musk-affiliated personnel, the legal authority for such access, measures taken to ensure the integrity and security of the payment systems, and other issues.

He also questioned whether background checks were conducted on those seeking access and whether potential conflicts of interest in light of Musk’s business dealings in China were considered.

Musk’s significant business operations in China were addressed, including China’s history of cyber espionage targeting U.S. government systems.

Wyden warned that conflicts of interest could arise from Musk’s Chinese business ties. A national security risk could occur if Musk-affiliated access were granted to the sensitive payment systems.

Another concern is that the federal government currently relies on accounting maneuvers to meet its obligations after reaching its debt limit, adding to the financial strain. The Treasury Department had not responded by the time of publication.

Merkley, Wyden Blast President Trump’s Illegal Federal Funding Cuts That Harm American Families

– Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today issued the following statements in response to a federal judge blocking the Trump Administration’s executive order immediately stopping all federal loans and grants:

“The attack on these programs that allow families to get on their feet and thrive is the great betrayal coming from President Trump, who campaigned on helping working families, said Merkley, Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee and a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “In addition, Trump’s order cutting federal funds will have a huge impact on critical infrastructure projects in Oregon—like the Hood River-White Salmon and I-5 bridge replacement projects and the Port of Coos Bay’s transformative container port project—as well as funding to mitigate and fight wildfires, fulfill our commitments to Tribal communities, ensure clean air and water, and protect our public lands and wildlife.During the chaos caused by Trump’s constitutional crisis, Oregonians called my office after being shut out of their federal reimbursement systems and cut off from funding for their work to provide affordable housing, Head Start programs, and health care at federally qualified health centers. I’ll keep fighting to block these illegal cuts.”

“Chaos is not leadership. Ransacking resources from Oregonians counting on federal support for local law enforcement, schools, small businesses, firefighters, veterans, and more hurts each and every community I am honored to represent,” said Wyden, Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee. “Donald Trump ran on lowering prices for families, and instead he’s intentionally driving the economy into the ground, forcing all Americans who aren’t Elon Musk to accept a lower standard of living to help he and his buddies get richer and richer. Legal or not, he doesn’t care. This illegal unconstitutional act is now in a court of law, but it’s already playing out in the court of opinion with Oregonians voicing their outrage. The American people must keep the pressure on until every community counting on this funding is assured they will receive it just as Congress intended.”

According to the Oregon State Legislature, about 30% of Oregon’s budget is supported by federal aid, which is critical for supporting local communities. If allowed to go into effect, the directives in President Trump’s executive order could block funding in Oregon for:

  • PUBLIC SAFETY: Grants for law enforcement departments would cease to go out the door, undermining public safety in Oregon.
  • FIREFIGHTING: Grants to support firefighters would be halted—this includes grants that help states and localities purchase essential firefighting equipment.
  • HEALTH SERVICES: Over $106 million in federal funding for community health centers that provide health care for people across Oregon would be at risk, creating chaos for patients trying to get their prescriptions, a regular checkup, and more.
  • TRIBES: Funding to Tribes for basic government services like health care, public safety, programs, Tribal schools, and food assistance would be halted.
  • HEAD START: Funding for Head Start programs that provide comprehensive early childhood education for almost 10,000 children in Oregon would be at risk. Teachers and staff would not get paid, and programs may not be able to stay open.
  • COMBATTING FENTANYL CRISIS: Funding for communities to address the substance use disorder crisis and combat the fentanyl crisis would be cut off.
  • CHILD CARE: Child care programs in Oregon and across the country would be at risk to accessing the funding they rely on to keep their doors open.
  • K-12 SCHOOLS: Federal funding for our K-12 schools would be halted, preventing school districts in Oregon from accessing key formula grant funding including Title I and nearly $160 million in IDEA Grants (which help children with disabilities). This would pose tremendous financial burdens on schools in the middle of the school year.
  • INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS: Federally-funded transportation projects in Oregon and across the country—roads, bridges, public transit, and more—would be halted, including projects already under construction.
  • EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: Critical preparedness and response capability funding used to prepare for disasters, public health emergencies, and chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear events would be frozen.
  • DISASTER RELIEF: Public assistance and hazard mitigation grants from the Disaster Relief Fund to state, Tribal, territorial, and local governments and non-profits to help communities quickly respond to, recover from, and prepare for major disasters would be halted—right as so many communities are struggling after severe natural disasters.

Oregon joins lawsuit while state officials scramble to respond to Trump order freezing federal funds

Oregon is suing the Trump administration after it ordered an abrupt freeze of many federal payments, leaving state agencies unable to access reimbursements for Medicaid and child care programs and sending state officials scrambling to determine the total effect. 

Gov. Tina Kotek and Attorney General Dan Rayfield, both Democrats, announced the suit during a brief press conference Tuesday afternoon. Rayfield joined Democratic attorneys general across the country to file the suit in U.S. District Court in Rhode Island following a Trump administration memo directing all federal agencies to “temporarily pause” awarding or disbursing any federal funding that could be impacted by a host of recent executive orders by 2 p.m. Pacific time Tuesday.

“When federal funds that are meant to serve the most vulnerable are suspended or unavailable, that has an impact on Oregonians and it’s a dereliction of the federal government’s duty to protect Americans,” Kotek said. 

A federal judge based in Washington, D.C., paused enforcement of Trump’s order until Monday in response to a separate lawsuit filed by a group of nonprofit agencies. And U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas condemned Trump’s move as an “illegal theft” of taxpayer dollars.

“With the stroke of his pen, President Trump is ordering an unprecedented steal that will take critical resources away from our police, firefighters, veterans, growers, and working families here in Oregon and across the country,” she said. “Oregonians will immediately feel the effects of Trump’s steal at a time when most folks are already struggling to pay the bills and put food on the table.” — (SOURCE)

JOINT STATEMENT ON MEDIATION BETWEEN PROVIDENCE AND OREGON NURSES ASSOCIATION

At the request of Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, the Oregon Nurses Association and Providence Oregon have agreed to have representatives from both sides re-engage in intensive, in-person mediation beginning January 29th, 2025, in an effort to end this strike. Both sides are engaging in every effort to get this dispute resolved as expeditiously as possible and get people back to work.

See Video from 1/31/25 here: https://www.facebook.com/OregonNursesAssociation/videos/1014312273856316

Grants Pass Police Arrest 2 Juveniles for Kidnapping and Other Serious Felonies

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Following an extensive investigation involving numerous victims, Grants Pass Police Detectives, assisted by patrol officers, served a search warrant early Thursday in the Northwest area of Grants Pass. This resulted in the arrest of two juvenile males, ages 14 and 15. Their identities are confidential at this time based on their juvenile status.

The pair was arrested for a lengthy list of severe felonies and misdemeanors, including 1st Degree Kidnapping, Strangulation, 2nd and 3rd Degree Assault, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Menacing, and Criminal Conspiracy. One of the juveniles was additionally arrested for 1st Degree Theft.

Both male juveniles were lodged at the Josephine County Juvenile Justice Center following their arrest.No further details can be released at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.

The Oregon Department of Revenue is encouraging all workers with income in 2024 to check their EITC eligibility.

The Department of Revenue is working with other state agencies and community partners to encourage taxpayers to learn more about this credit and find out if they’re eligible for the credit, which is celebrating its 50th year in 2025. The IRS estimates that nearly 25 percent eligible Oregon taxpayers are not claiming the EITC. One Oregon organization says that adds up to an estimated $100 million in unclaimed credits. While many are unaware of the EITC and other credits, another hurdle is the need for free help filing tax returns.  Free tax filing assistance is available at sites across the state.

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a federal tax credit for people for making up to $66,819 in 2024. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $7,830 on their federal tax return, and a maximum Oregon Earned Income Credit of $940 on their state tax return. Certain taxpayers without children may also be eligible for these credits. Individuals may qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Oregon EIC, and other credits, even if they are not required to file. To receive the refundable credits, however, they must file a federal and state tax return.

An Oregon House bill would allow retailers to legally scan ID for people buying tobacco or alcohol, regardless of their age.

The legislation follows a pair of lawsuits challenging the practice, claiming universal ID checks were against existing state law and an invasion of privacy.

In September, KGW reported on the growing number of retailers who implemented universal ID checks for alcohol or tobacco products. Jonathan Polonsky, CEO of Plaid Pantry, said the policy of carding everyone eliminated any guesswork and kept the company in compliance with state and local requirements.  Oregon law prohibits the swiping of a driver’s license except under certain circumstances, including the sale of age-restricted products if there is any reasonable doubt that the person is 21. Reasonable doubt exists if the person appears to be under the age of 26, according to Oregon Administrative Rules.

House Bill 2055 is headed to the House Judiciary Committee. Even if it is adopted, the bill won’t settle the existing lawsuits over ID checks because it’s not retroactive.

Officials warn SNAP users to prevent fraud

Oregonians who receive supplemental federal food benefits need to be more vigilant than ever against fraud, officials say: If their monthly benefits are stolen, they’ll be gone for good.

In the past, the federal government replaced benefits lost to fraud, but that policy changed late last year. The federal government is no longer replacing stolen benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

That could mean a total loss of tens of thousands of dollars in SNAP benefits in Oregon, primarily through “skimming,” according to officials from Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon. That happens when a device is inserted into a credit card reader and steals financial information when the card is run through the reader.

Only a small minority lose their benefits this way. Oregon has nearly 447,000 households receiving SNAP benefits. From Oct. 1 through Dec. 20, nearly 200 households had their benefits stolen, losing $77,000 in food aid.

The average household receives $310 in SNAP benefits, which are not meant to foot an entire food bill, but the money is often crucial for those who need it.

Jake Sunderland, press secretary for the Oregon Department of Human Services, said SNAP users should take several precautions to protect themselves from fraud:

  • Only manage your account through the ebtEDGE website or mobile app, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play
  • Freeze your card right away after each use and unfreeze it before you make purchases and block purchases made outside of Oregon or online through Cardholder.ebtEDGE.com.
  • Keep your PIN secret and cover the keypad when you enter it.
  • Check your account activity regularly and cancel your card immediately if you see purchases you didn’t make. (SOURCE)

Oregon joins lawsuit over Trump attempt to end birthright citizenship — Judge grants request to temporarily block Trump’s birthright citizenship order

A federal judge in Seattle on Thursday temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship.

U.S. District Court Judge John Coughenour’s ruling in a case brought by Washington, Oregon, Arizona and Illinois is the first in what is sure to be a long legal fight over the order’s constitutionality.

Coughenour called the order “blatantly unconstitutional.”

“I have difficulty understanding how a member of the bar could state unequivocally that this is a constitutional order,” the judge told the Trump administration’s attorney. “It boggles my mind.”

Coughenour’s decision came after 25 minutes of arguments between attorneys for Washington state and the Department of Justice.

State lawmakers are considering banning winners of large prizes in the Oregon Lottery from reselling their tickets in order to block schemes that enable tax evasion and uncollected child support payments.

The sales practice has spawned a cottage industry of so-called lottery discounters who operate around the state. They annually buy millions of dollars in winning tickets – mostly video lottery and keno tickets with prizes above $1,500 – from their original winners at steep discounts. Then they claim the face value of the prizes when they present the tickets at lottery payment centers in Wilsonville and Salem.

As detailed in an investigation published last summer by The Oregonian/Oregon Live, the scheme enables tax evasion. It allows some winners to avoid past due child support and other debts to the state that would otherwise be garnished from their prizes. It can incentivize sketchy operators to manipulate winners into selling tickets. And in some states, it has been linked to money laundering.

JACKSONVILLE, OR — The Britt Festival Orchestra (BFO) announces its 2025 season, with three weeks of exciting outdoor programming in historic Jacksonville, Oregon, June 12 – 28, 2025.

Under the leadership of four guest conductors, Damon Gupton (June 12-13); Chia-Hsuan Lin (June 15-18); Roberto Kalb (June 21-23); and Normal Huynh (June 26-28) the Orchestra’s 63rd season highlights a feature film alongside beloved classical favorites.

The season features seven extraordinary guest artists: pianist Clayton Stephenson performing Ravel’s Concerto in G Major; violinist William Hagen performing Korngold’s Concerto in D Major; violinist Tessa Lark and cellist Wei Yu performing Brahms Double concerto for Violin & Violoncello in A minorvocalist Sun-Ly Pierce performing Ravel’s Shéhérazade; pianist Jaeden Izik-Dzurko performing Rachmaninoff’s Concerto No. 3 in D minor; and violinist Simone Porter performing Stravinsky’s Violin Concerto in D and Ravel’s TziganeThe season will begin with two evenings of Jurassic Park in Concert whereJohn Williams’ score will be performed live-to-picture by the full orchestra in one of the most beloved films of the 20th Century.

Britt Music & Arts Festival shares extraordinary live performances and arts education experiences that inspire discovery and build community, anchored at the Britt hill amphitheater. Since its grassroots beginnings in 1963, the non-profit organization has grown from a two-week chamber music festival to a summer-long series of concerts in a variety of genres, including a three-week orchestra season, and year-round education and engagement programs. For more information, visit www.brittfest.org

Oregonians looking to renew their vehicle registration and get new tags can now do so at a handful of Fred Meyer stores around the state

The self-service express kiosks from Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services are designed to give Oregonians another way to renew their registration besides at a DMV office, online or by mail, according to a news release.

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2MrLwl_0yHoapM700

The kiosks are located in Fred Meyer locations in Salem and Eugene as well as in Beaverton, Bend, Happy Valley, Hillsboro, Medford, Oak Grove and Tualatin. A location in Portland is coming soon and the DMV said it plans to offer more kiosks around the state in the future.

In Salem, the kiosk is at the Fred Meyer located at 3740 Market St. NE and allows users to pay by cash, credit or debit card. In Eugene, it’s located at the Fred Meyer at 3333 W 11th Ave. and will only allow payment via debit or credit card.

“We see these kiosks as a way to improve customer service, access and equity,” DMV administrator Amy Joyce said in the news release. “This program is the latest effort aimed at improving the DMV experience for our customers.”

The kiosks are ADA-accessible and registration renewal can be completed in English and Spanish. Users will be charged a $4.95 vendor fee for each transaction.

Customers will need to bring identification (license, permit, or ID card), insurance information and registration renewal notice. — Vehicle registration cards and license plate stickers will be printed after the transaction.

Registration Is Now Open For The Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K Run for the Trees


Oregon Parks Forever 

Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests.  Registration is now open for the 2025 Run for the Trees at www.orparksforever.org.

Participants can run, walk, hike, skate, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 19 and 27 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day).   Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week.  If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15.

For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks.  Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration.

Gather your friends, family and/or colleagues and create your own walk or run. Make it fun!

Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.

As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its fifth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include ten other states. Together, Michigan, Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Maryland and Virginia will “lock arms” as they help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.

“We are thrilled to partner with Bob Ross, Inc. and these other ten states on the Happy Little 5K concept as a way to honor the late Bob Ross and create a legacy event to plant trees,” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.”

Oregon Parks Forever joined this event as an expansion of our efforts to fund the replanting of trees killed by wildfires, heat domes and invasive insects.  Over the past three years, Oregon Parks Forever has been able to fund the replanting of more than 800,000 trees across Oregon.

“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”

Learn more about the program at  www.orparksforever.org.

IRS Direct File, Direct File Oregon Available – Income Tax Return Processing Began January 27

Salem, OR— Free electronic filing through the combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon will open January 27 when both the IRS and the Oregon Department of Revenue begin processing e-filed 2024 federal and state income tax returns. Paper-filed return processing will begin in mid-February.

The IRS estimates that 640,000 Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own tax returns in 2025 will have the option to electronically file both their federal and state income tax returns for free by filing directly with the IRS and the state.

Taxpayers are encouraged to use the IRS Eligibility Checker to see if they qualify to file directly with the IRS and the state.

E-filed returns will be processed in the order they are received. However, as in years past, the department won’t be issuing personal income tax refunds until after February 15. A refund hold is part of the department’s tax fraud prevention efforts and allows for confirmation that the amounts claimed on tax returns match what employers and payers report on Forms W-2 and 1099.

E-filing is the fastest way for a taxpayer to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.

The department reminds taxpayers that taking a few easy steps in the next few weeks can make preparing their 2024 tax return easier in 2025.

Free filing options open January 27 — In addition to IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon, other free filing options will also open January 27. Free guided tax preparation is available from several companies for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Free fillable forms are available for all income levels. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free.

Free and low-cost tax help — Free tax preparation services are available for low- to moderate-income taxpayers through AARP and CASH Oregon. United Way also offers free tax help through their MyFreeTaxes program. Visit the Department of Revenue website to take advantage of the software and free offers and get more information about free tax preparation services.

Voluntary self-identification of race and ethnicity information — New for 2025, Oregon taxpayers and Oregonians can voluntarily provide information about their race and ethnicity on Form OR-VSI when they file their 2024 taxes. Providing this information may be done separately from a tax return through Revenue Online. The information will be confidential. It can only be used for research purposes to analyze potential inequities in tax policy. The new option is a result of Senate Bill 1 in 2023.

Use Revenue Online to verify payments — Taxpayers can verify their estimated payments through their Revenue Online account.

Through Revenue Online, individuals can also view letters sent to them by the department, initiate appeals, make payments, and submit questions. Visit Revenue Online on the Revenue website to learn more.

Those who don’t have a Revenue Online account can sign up on the agency’s website.

To check the status of their refund after February 15, or make payments, taxpayers can visit Revenue’s website. You can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), we accept all relay calls.

Department Of Revenue Volunteers Will Help Taxpayers Use Direct File Oregon To E-file Their Taxes For Free At Libraries Across The State

Salem, OR—Oregonians looking for assistance in electronically filing their taxes for free, could find help as close as their local library this tax season.

Volunteers from the Oregon Department of Revenue will be traveling to libraries in 17 different communities across the state in February, March, and April to assist taxpayers in using the free combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon to complete their returns.

The one-day tax help clinics are planned at libraries in:

BandonNorth Bend
BurnsPrineville
CoquillePendleton
CorneliusRoseburg
The DallesSalem
Klamath FallsSeaside
LebanonSweet Home
McMinnvilleToledo
 Tualatin

Dates, times, and addresses for each clinic can be found on the Free Direct File assistance at local libraries webpage.

Last year, more than 140,000 taxpayers in 12 other states filed their federal tax returns using a limited IRS Direct File pilot program while nearly 7,000 Oregon taxpayers filed their state returns using the free, state-only Direct File Oregon option.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced in May that it would make IRS Direct File a permanent option for taxpayers and invited all 50 states to participate. Oregon was the first of 13 new states to accept the invitation from the IRS in June creating a seamless free e-filing system for both federal and state taxes.

With the two direct file systems connected, the IRS estimates that 640,000 Oregon taxpayers will be able to e-file both their federal and state returns for free in 2025.

The department believes that offering free assistance will help maximize the number of Oregonians who choose to use the new free option and make it possible for many who don’t have a filing requirement to file and claim significant federal and state tax credits for low-income families.

For example, the IRS estimates that one in five Oregon taxpayers eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit are not doing so. One Oregon organization estimates that the unclaimed credits have totaled nearly $100 million in recent years.

Taxpayers should use the IRS eligibility checker to see if they’ll be able to use IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon. Eligible taxpayers should set up an IRS online account and an account with Oregon’s Revenue Online before they come to an event. Taxpayers attending an event should bring the following information with them.

Identification documents

  • Social security card or ITIN for everyone on your tax return
  • Government picture ID for taxpayer and spouse if filing jointly (such as driver’s license or passport)

Common income and tax documents

  • Forms W2 (wages from a job)
  • Forms 1099 (other kinds of income)
  • Form SSA-1099 (Social Security Benefits)

Optional documents to download

  • Canceled check or bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
  • Last year’s tax return

Taxpayers can signup for the new “Oregon Tax Tips” direct email newsletter to keep up with information about tax return filing and how to claim helpful tax credits. 

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Sites Open in Oregon: Program Provides Free Tax Prep to Thousands of Older Adults

 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is providing free preparation now through April 15 throughout Oregon. Started in 1968, Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program and has served more than 80 million people. For the 2024 tax season, nearly 28,000 volunteers helped almost 1.7 million taxpayers, 965,000 of whom were adults over 50 with low income. Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS, and AARP membership is not required.

“During the 2024 tax season, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers completed over 19,400 federal returns and 18,500 state returns in Oregon with refunds of nearly $39 million,” said AARP Oregon State Director Bandana Shrestha. “Even modest refunds can make an impact on financial resilience, especially for vulnerable older adults. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide helps put money back in the pockets of Oregonians every year by making sure they don’t miss out on the credits and deductions they have earned.”

Tax-Aide volunteers provide free tax preparation and filing services to all with a focus on adults with low to moderate income. Volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year to ensure they understand the latest changes to the U.S. Tax Code.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers a variety of options to better meet the needs of taxpayers. Access to the different types of assistance varies by location.

  • In-Person Service: Tax preparation is completed by an IRS-certified Tax-Aide volunteer on-site in one visit.
  • One-Visit Scan: Tax documents are scanned at the Tax-Aide site and then Tax-Aide volunteers prepare the return remotely.
  • Two-Visit Scan: Tax documents are scanned at the Tax-Aide site and then volunteers prepare the return remotely. During a second visit, taxpayers work with a volunteer to finalize their return and obtain a printed copy for their records.
  • Drop-Off Service: Tax documents are left at the Tax-Aide site with a volunteer and the return is prepared remotely. During a second visit, taxpayers work with a volunteer to file their return and obtain a printed copy and their original documents.
  • No Site Visit Required (Internet Access Required): Taxpayers upload tax documents to the IRS-provided software. Tax-Aide volunteers prepare the return remotely and work with the taxpayer to file the return electronically.
  • Online Coaching: Taxpayers prepare their own return and receive online support from a volunteer to help them along the way.
  • Facilitated Self-Assistance: Taxpayers schedule an appointment at a Tax-Aide site to work with a volunteer to complete and file their own return.
  • Self-Preparation: Taxpayers prepare their own return using a software product that has been made available through the Tax-Aide website.

Users can find their nearest Tax-Aide location and assistance options through the Tax-Aide site locator. The site locator features a Tax-Aide chat bot that can help book an appointment, answer questions about the program, and transfer the conversation to a live agent if needed or requested. For more information, including which documents to bring to the tax site, visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669) 

https://www.oregon.gov/osp/missing/pages/missingpersons.aspx

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

SafeOregon 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

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