The latest news stories of interest in the Rogue Valley and around the state of Oregon from the digital home of Southern Oregon, Wynne Broadcasting’s RogueValleyMagazine.com
Wednesday, December 28, 2022
Rogue Valley Weather
WIND ADVISORY ISSUED: 3:24 AM DEC. 28, 2022 – NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 7 PM PST THURSDAY... * WHAT...Southeast winds 15 to 30 mph with gusts up to 30 to 45 mph expected. * WHERE...The southern end of the Rogue Valley, including Ashland, Talent, and Phoenix, plus I-5, and the surrounding high terrain in the SE corner of Jackson County. * WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 7 PM PST Thursday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. High profile vehicles may have difficulty driving. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...There could be a lull in the gusty winds between 6 AM and 10 AM PST before picking back up again in the afternoon. * View the hazard area in detail at https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/map/?wfo=mfr
Pacific Power Still Working To Restore Power Across Jackson and Josephine Counties
Its map showing power outages today says, “Widespread outages across the state due to high winds; resulting in downed power lines and trees on lines. Crews working around the clock to quickly and safely restore power to all affected customers as soon as possible.”
As of 5:30pm Tuesday, there are approximately 20,500 customers out of power, down from the 49,622 customers at the height of the wind event.
The communities with the largest remaining outages include:
- Astoria, 7,500 customers.
- Coos Bay, 1,500 customers.
- Grants Pass, 8,000 customers:
- Willamette Valley, 3,600 customers.
Visit http://pacificpower.net/outages for a map showing current restoration estimates.
Oregon’s Department of Transportation advised this morning that its Commerce and Compliance Division was without power, “Due to a power outage at the CCD Headquarters building in Salem, callers to our Registration Services line should anticipate longer hold times before speaking to an analyst. Carriers can continue to use Oregon Trucking Online (TOL) for most transactions with CCD.”
Pacific Power says, “We apologize for the inconvenience. Another advisory will be sent when power is restored.”
The electricity utility company advised customers yesterday that strong wind likely would disrupt power service overnight and today as, “A powerful Pacific storm coming on the heels of a significant ice and wind event will increase the potential for widespread power outages from Crescent City, Calif. to the Portland area over the next 24 hours.”
It says its crews were prepared to repair damage as fast as possible and reduce the amount of time any customer is without service, staging personnel and equipment to respond to outages as they occur. Pacific Power said its meteorology team was monitoring weather forecasts into today, as “the fast-moving storm will exit the area by Tuesday evening.”
Police Say Portland Man Arrested For Killing Girlfriend Was Hiding Out In Central Point House
A Jackson County homeowner who discovered an intruder inside his Central Point property last week also led police to a Portland man wanted for allegedly killing his 27-year-old girlfriend on Dec. 9th.
Jose Antonio Caraballo, 43, was arrested Friday after Central Point police responded to an alleged burglary at a home on Comet Avenue and saw Caraballo fleeing on a bicycle, according to a probable cause affidavit.
Eric Torrey, who owns the Comet Avenue home, told police he had gone to the house that day to put something inside. Torrey told police the house was supposed to be empty, but when he pushed the door open he allegedly saw Caraballo inside. He yelled at Caraballo that he wasn’t allowed to be there, and Caraballo came toward the front door with a knife, according to the affidavit.
Torrey told police he went back to his car and parked across the street. He then followed Caraballo, who fled the house on a stolen bike and started traveling eastbound on Kings Way. Central Point police arrived shortly after and arrested Caraballo, the affidavit says.
Police found a large amount of silver collectors coins, jewelry, a knife and clothing on Caraballo, all of which were stolen from Torrey’s home allegedly. Torrey said he estimated the stolen coins are worth at least several thousand dollars, according to the affidavit.
Caraballo told police he had been at the house for about seven days and admitted to taking property from the home, including a watch, rings and a necklace.
The home backs up to an Oregon State Police facility where troopers are stationed five days a week.
Carabello was arrested on suspicion of first-degree burglary, first-degree trespass, first-degree theft, menacing and interfering with a peace officer, the affidavit says.
Caraballo is lodged in the Jackson County Jail and will be transferred to Multnomah County to face accusations of second-degree murder and domestic violence, Portland police said Friday.
Torrey could not immediately be reached for comment Tuesday.
Portland police issued a nationwide arrest warrant for Caraballo’s arrest on Dec. 12, three days after police discovered the body of his girlfriend, Kathryn Muhlbach, in Southeast Portland’s Powell Butte Nature Park.
Muhlbach’s death marked the 97th homicide in Portland in 2022. So far this year, 101 people have died in homicidal violence in Portland, a new record compared with last year’s 92. The list includes four police shootings.
Arrest Made in Pursuit and Possession of Drugs Near Manzanita Rest Area
On December 22, 2022 at approximately 10:30 PM, a deputy with the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation on I-5 at the Manzanita Rest Area northbound. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit continued through the rest area and back onto the interstate. The pursuit lasted about ½ mile before the driver stopped in the median and fled on foot across the southbound lanes of travel. A foot pursuit ensued. The driver was located trying to go over a barbed wire fence and was taken into custody.
The driver had a confirmed warrant for his arrest for DCS-Meth, DCS-Cocaine, DCS Heroin and Felon in Possession of a Weapon.
Inside of the vehicle deputies located approximately 184 grams of Methamphetamine, approximately 10 grams of Heroin, approximately 5 grams of Cocaine, approximately 8 grams of Fentanyl and several Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 prescription medications. Scales and cash were also seized from the vehicle/suspect.
The suspect was lodged at the Josephine County Jail for the following charges: Felony Elude, Misdemeanor Elude, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Fentanyl, Possession of Schedule 2, Possession of Schedule 3 and the warrant.
Identity Released of Man found Deceased in Bear Creek
On December 22, 2022 at approximately 8:40 a.m. Medford Police Officers were dispatched to what appeared to be a deceased subject in Bear Creek, behind the parking lot of 40 N. Riverside Ave. Officers located the subject, who was confirmed to be deceased. Medford Police Detectives and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Medical Examiners were summoned to the scene. Upon initial assessment, there were no obvious signs of trauma or criminal activity.
An autopsy was conducted. The death was determined to be accidental and caused by drowning/exposure. Toxicology results are pending; the timeframe to obtain the results is unknown. The decedent has been identified as 63-year-old Richard Henderson.
Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving Awareness Campaign
The weeks leading up to the holiday season are a busy period on America’s roads. To help keep drivers safe, our local law enforcement departments will work with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) during the national Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving drunk-driving-awareness campaign.
If you plan to go out and include alcohol in your celebration, make sure you refrain from driving. Review these facts and spread the word about the dangers of drunk driving.
- During the 2016-2020 December months, more than 4,400 people were killed in drunk-driving-related crashes.
- Drunk male drivers were involved in fatal crashes at a much higher rate (660) in December 2020 compared to female drivers (191).
- Approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers (with BACs at or above .08). In 2020, there were 11,654 people killed in drunk-driving crashes.
- Although it’s illegal to drive when impaired by alcohol, in 2020 one person was killed every 45 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on our nation’s roads.
- The rate of alcohol impairment among drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2020 was 3.1 times higher at night than during the day.
Plan for a Safe Celebration
Always remember to plan ahead when you will be celebrating with alcohol. If you plan to drink, make arrangements for a sober driver to take you home. Before you start celebrating this holiday season, look over these safety tips to keep you, your loved ones, and everyone else safe on the road.
- Plan ahead: If you wait until you’ve been drinking to make a smart decision, you might not. Before you have one drink, designate a sober driver who won’t be drinking.
- If it’s your turn to be the designated driver, take your job seriously, and don’t drink.
- If you see a drunk driver on the road, 911 immediately.
- Do you have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and let a sober driver get your friend home safely.
Pacific Power Crews Still Working to Restore Power After High Winds
Workers are patrolling lines to assess hazards and restoration needs even as winds are expected to pose a challenge into the evening
Pacific Power has mobilized over 250 field and support personnel, including service crews from Rocky Mountain Power, to assess and repair damage caused by strong winds as high as 80 miles per hour.
As of noon Tuesday, there were approximately 27,000 customers out of power, down from the 49,622 customers at the height of the wind event.
“We are still battling the elements, but our crews are focused on repair and restoration as the weather allows,” said Allen Berreth, vice president of operations. “We remain grateful for the support our crews are getting in person and on social media from our customers.”
Widespread strong winds over and west of the Cascades ranging from 40 to 80 miles per hour continue to challenge the efforts of service crews. Downed trees are especially common since heavy rains have soaked through soil. Employees are working through the holidays to patrol lines and identify potential damage. Where possible, crews are already working to restore service, though the strong winds that have downed trees and lines across the service area are forecast to persist into the early evening.
The communities with the largest remaining outages include:
As of 5:30pm Tuesday, there are approximately 20,500 customers out of power, down from the 49,622 customers at the height of the wind event.
The communities with the largest remaining outages include:
- Astoria, 7,500 customers.
- Coos Bay, 1,500 customers.
- Grants Pass, 8,000 customers:
- Willamette Valley, 3,600 customers.
Visit http://pacificpower.net/outages for a map showing current restoration estimates.
Pacific Power’s meteorologists forecast the storm will move east to Pendleton and Walla Walla this evening, potentially impacting service there.
Pacific Power regional business managers are working with local emergency officials to prioritize power restoration to critical facilities in the communities affected by extended outages.
Pacific Power encourages customers to report outages by calling 1-877-508-5088 or text OUT to 722797. Text STAT to 722797 to check the status of your outage.
To ease the inconvenience of power outages and assist crews in restoring power, Pacific Power suggests the following tips and safety precautions:
- Stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.
- Don’t drive over downed power lines.
- Maintain safe distances from workers. Repair work is being done under our COVID-19 safety protocols. Waves and acknowledgement are welcome, but please allow crews to do their work at an appropriate distance both for operational and COVID-19 safety.
- If there is damage to your service mast or weather head, where the powerline connects to your home or business, you will need to contact a licensed electrician for repairs before service can be restored. Our crews can only work on company-owned equipment.
- Check on your neighbors, especially those who may need special assistance. Also, check with others who have electricity, to see if you can visit.
- If you have power at this time, keep mobile devices charged so that may be used in an emergency. Before anything happens, download the Pacific Power app to your smart device so you can have information readily available.
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
- Remember your pets! Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy.
- If you are using alternate heat or cooking sources, remember to allow plenty of ventilation. Never burn charcoal for heating or cooking indoors.
- If you are using a generator, make sure to follow all manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the generator is outside and not near any household air intakes. Do not connect the generator directly to your breaker box as this can create a dangerous situation for crews working on the powerlines. Instead, plug essential appliances directly into the generator.
People planning to do some winter storm watching on the coast might want to reconsider.
State parks up and down the Oregon coast closed Tuesday morning as high winds and rain battered the region. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced several closures around 9 a.m., and more could come in throughout the day.
The parks department announced closures at Cape Meares, Ecola, Cape Lookout, and Sunset Bay state parks on the coast, as well as a partial closure at Silver Falls and Willamette Mission state parks in the Willamette Valley.
Announcements were made on Twitter and Facebook as well as the parks department’s official website.
Closures came as the National Weather Service issued a coastal flood warning and warned people of extremely high surf and rogue waves Tuesday.
High winds were to blame for closures at Cape Meares, Ecola and Cape Lookout. The Cape Lookout campground was also without power Tuesday morning, with flooding along the road into the park. The day-use area at Sunset Bay State Park was closed due to extreme high tides and flooding in the parking lot, while wind brought down trees
and branches along the Cape Arago Highway, which connects Highway 101 to Sunset Bay, Shore Acres and Cape Arago state parks, officials said.
Oregon Division of Financial Regulation warns of fake crypto apps, websites that will steal your money
SALEM – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) warns cryptocurrency investors to do their homework before giving any money to a crypto trading platform.
Many crypto trading apps or websites are really just fake platforms set up by scammers to take investor money and give nothing in return. Investors are promised huge returns in a short amount of time and will see account balances increase rapidly, but will not be able to withdraw funds without having to deposit more money in “withdrawal fees” or “taxes.” The scammer will continue extorting these fees until an investor becomes suspicious. After that, the account is drained and the scammers are gone, along with the investor’s funds. Before transferring money to a crypto trading website or app, research the company and web address to make sure it is legitimate.
Scammers will also look for opportunities to re-victimize those who have already been harmed and are trying to find ways to recover their losses. For example, a recent scam involved a website claiming to be managed by the U.S. Department of State, stating it was working to get FTX customer assets returned to them, following the collapse of FTX (read more about the FTX collapse). The website asked for the investor’s FTX username and password, along with other account information. The U.S. Department of State did not create this website. Please be advised that if anyone contacts you asking for usernames and passwords for your accounts, it is more than likely a scam.
“The crypto trading market is fluid and full of people trying to take advantage of you,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “We have said this before, but if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. We encourage everyone to do their homework and invest wisely, and be diligent in protecting their usernames, passwords, and other sensitive data.”
According to the North American Securities Administrators Association, there are many common schemes fraudsters exploit as new investment products or opportunities. Some of them are:
- Fake digital wallets: A digital wallet is used to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies. Scammers design a fake digital wallet to lure users into providing their private key or code that enables the wallet to open. Once scammers receive the private key, they can steal all the cryptocurrency from the owner’s digital wallet.
- Pump-and-dumps: Groups of individuals coordinate to buy a thinly-traded cryptocurrency, promote the cryptocurrency on social media to push up demand and the price, and then sell it in a coordinated sale. The price plummets and those unaware of the scheme are left with the devalued cryptocurrency.
- Multi-level marketing platforms: Companies lure investors through the promise of high interest with low risk. These investors are then incentivized to recruit more members.
“Many of these seem obvious after the fact, but there is so much in this industry that looks and sounds legitimate,” Keen said. “Unfortunately, there are a lot of people out there in the crypto space who are just looking to take advantage of you. If you think you are a victim of a crypto-related scam, we encourage you to file a complaint with our office.”
For more information on filing a complaint, go to the DFR website.
### About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and www.dcbs.oregon.gov.
Fatal Crash – HWY 26 – Wasco County
On Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at approximately 3:26 P.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on HWY 26, near milepost 64, in Wasco County.
The preliminary investigation indicated that due to winter weather, which included snow and strong winds, a large tree fell onto the cab an eastbound Peterbilt commercial motor vehicle, operated by James Darron Lyda (53) of Prineville, causing it to lose control and leave the highway. The lone occupant and operator of the Peterbilt was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency medical personnel.
The highway was closed for approximately 3 hours during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by Hoodland Fire, Warms Springs Fire, and ODOT.
Triple Fatal Crash – HWY 26 – Clatsop County
On Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at approximately 11:39 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus tree crash on HWY 26, near milepost 15.5, in Clatsop County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a severe weather event caused a large diameter tree to fall onto an eastbound silver Ford F-150, operated by Justin Nolasco Pedraza (19) of Seaside. It was determined the tree fell directly onto the Ford F150 roof as it was passing by.
The operator and passengers, Bonifacio Olvera Nolasco (41) of Seaside and a 4 year old female, all suffered fatal injuries during the collision and were discovered deceased upon the arrival of first responders.
The investigation was hindered by the weather, fallen tree, and safety concerns. The highway was closed for approximately 5 hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Hamlet Fire Department, Elsie Vinemaple Fire, the County Medical Examiners’ Office, and ODOT.
Amtrak Reduces Rates on I-5 Corridor
Amtrak announced, Tuesday, that starting January 4, 2023, Oregon riders will start seeing reduced fares for Amtrak Oregon Cascades routes.
Stops that have reduced fares include:
- Portland to Oregon City $3
- Portland to Salem $10
- Portland to Albany $12
- Portland to Eugene $17
- Oregon City to Sale $7
- Oregon City to Albany $12
- Oregon City to Eugene $15
- Salem to Albany $8
- Salem to Eugene $11
- Albany to Eugene $10
“We looked at the high cost of driving on I-5 in the Willamette Valley and realized we could offer something better,” said Karyn Criswell, ODOT Public Transportation Division administrator. “The rates are more affordable, the ride is extremely comfortable and it’s much more relaxing than fighting traffic.”
The Amtrak Cascades Oregon Service operates two roundtrip trains between Eugene and Portland each day, according to ODOT, several trains make connections going further north to Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. — Schedules and tickets can be found here.
OHA adopts final rules to implement Oregon Psilocybin Services Act
PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has adopted the final set of administrative rules needed to launch the nation’s first regulatory framework for psilocybin services.
The rules were informed by public comments summarized in a Hearing Officer Report and a Letter to the Public outlining decisions that were made based on public comment period feedback.
The rules implement the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act, otherwise known as Ballot Measure 109, which is now codified in Oregon law in ORS 475A. With the adoption of these rules, the Oregon Psilocybin Services (OPS) section will begin accepting applications for four licensure types on Jan. 2, 2023. OHA’s role includes the regulation of these licensees. Persons operating outside the licensed system may be subject to criminal penalties, which is a matter for local or state law enforcement.
Under ORS 475A, a client 21 and older may access psilocybin services and will be required to complete a preparation session with a licensed facilitator before participating in an administration session. The client will only access psilocybin at a licensed service center during an administration session. Integration sessions will be made available after administration sessions to further support clients.
Psilocybin products must be cultivated or processed by licensed manufacturers and tested by licensed, accredited testing labs before being sold to licensed service centers. Service centers are the only licensee authorized to sell psilocybin products to clients and only for consumption at the licensed service center during administration sessions.
It will take some time for these four license groups to become licensed and set up operations. Licensees will determine the cost of their services and scheduling of clients once they are licensed and open for business.
For the latest updates, subscribe to the Oregon Psilocybin Services distribution list at oregon.gov/psilocybin.
Whale Watch Week starts today despite blustery weather today
Oregon Coast—Whale Watch Week is set to open tomorrow, Dec. 28, despite a blustery Whale Watch eve that brought downed trees, power outages and high water to the Oregon Coast.
The high winds and water that buffeted the coast today are expected to subside by tonight or early Wednesday morning, and crews worked hard to clear the debris. Only one of the 17 Whale Watch sites, Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, was closed. It is expected to reopen in time to participate.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department encourages visitors to check the weather forecast and TripCheck before traveling to the Oregon Coast. Be prepared for wind, rain, possible high water and potential power outages. Follow all posted signs, dress for the weather and follow these safety tips.
High wind and power outages also affected parks across the state. Ecola State Park closed due to high wind, and the day-use area at Sunset Bay closed due to flooding. Silver Falls State Park closed all trailheads due to hazardous trees. The park also lost power. Cape Lookout, Cottonwood Canyon and Stub Stewart lost power but remained open. At Valley of the Rogue State Park, crews worked to clear as many as 15 downed trees, including one that smashed an OPRD vehicle. Please check stateparks.oregon.gov/ and search by park before visiting.
More about Whale Watch Week:
For the first time since 2019, Oregon State Parks will host Whale Watch Week in person along the Oregon Coast Dec. 28 – Jan. 1.
Every year thousands of Gray whales migrate south through Oregon’s waters at the end of December, and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department invites visitors to the coast to see their journey.
Trained volunteers will be stationed at most of the 17 sites to help visitors spot whales, share information and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast.
“We really enjoy getting folks out to the coast for Whale Watch Week,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.
“It’s something that Oregon State Parks has been doing for more than 40 years now, and we’re really glad to be able to bring it back in person,” he said.
A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online on the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching
An estimated 17,000 Gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores over the next several weeks as part of their annual migration south to the warm calving lagoons near Baja, Mexico. The end of December is the peak time for their migration; roughly 30 whales pass by per hour.
The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and keeping an eye on the surf at all times. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.
Several campgrounds lost power Tuesday and did not have an estimate for when service would return. For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.
Free Ranger-Guided Hikes at 20 Oregon State Parks On New Year’s Day
Rangers will guide hikes at Oregon state parks on New Year’s Day to kick off 2023. Choose from 24 hikes in 21 parks across the state. All hikes will be guided by a park ranger or volunteer who will share stories about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and plants.
Known as “First Day Hikes,” the trips typically cover just a few miles and are considered family-friendly.
The tours are free and the $5 day-use parking fee is also being waived on New Year’s Day at every state park that normally requires a fee. A few of the guided hikes do require registration.
Rangers will cover park history, geology, wildlife and plants during the hikes at parks around the state from the high desert to the coast, according to a news release.
“A guided hike is great way to kick off 2023 in the outdoors and begin a new tradition or continue a longstanding family tradition,” said Lisa Sumption, director of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. “As our centennial year comes to a close, we’re excited to begin the next 100 years of Oregon State Parks and continue to offer year-round recreation.”
The hikes begin at different times and locations. To get information on each of the different treks, including length, difficulty and whether you need to register, go to https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.feature-article&articleId=263
“Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife,” the news release said.
Here’s a list of the planned hikes at each state park.
Portland area
- L.L. Stub Stewart State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Dairy Creek West meeting hall
- Milo McIver State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Dog Creek Trailhead in the Riverside Day-Use Area.
- Milo McIver State Park: 1 p.m., meet at the Dog Creek Trailhead in the Riverside Day-use Area.
Columbia River Gorge
- Deschutes River State Recreation Area: 11 a.m., meet at the Oregon Trail Kiosk. Registration required.
- Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail: 10 a.m., meet at the Mark O. Hatfield East Trailhead on Rock Creek Road, Mosier. Bring your snowshoes or cross-country skis if there’s snow.
Willamette Valley/West Cascades
- Elijah Bristow State Park, Equestrian Ride: 11 a.m., foot in stirrup at noon, meet at the equestrian parking area for horse riding (bring your own horse).
- Elijah Bristow State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the main parking lot at the end of the park road near group picnic areas.
- Detroit Lake State Park: 11 a.m., meet at the Campground Visitor Center.
- Silver Falls State Park, Historic District Hike: 10 a.m., meet at the South Falls Lodge porch.
- Silver Falls State Park, Geology Hike: 10 a.m., meet at the South Falls Lodge porch.
Oregon Coast
- Bullards Beach State Park: 1 p.m., meet at the amphitheater.
- Fort Stevens State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the main parking lot next to the museum and visitor center.
- Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Cleawox Lodge.
- Nehalem Bay State Park: 9 a.m., meet at the main parking lot.
- South Beach State Park, South Jetty: 10 a.m., meet at the new Jetty Trailhead, South Jetty Day-use Area.
- Sitka Sedge State Natural Area: 12 p.m., meet at the parking lot.
Southern Oregon
- Collier Memorial State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Logging Museum parking lot. Call the park office, 541-783-2471 X21 to register by Dec. 30. Leave a message that includes name, contact info and number of people attending.
- TouVelle State Park: 1:30 p.m., meet at the day-use area by Area F at the far end of the park.
- Valley of the Rogue State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the amphitheater fire pit in the program area.
Eastern/Central Oregon
- Cottonwood Canyon State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Experience Center.
- LaPine State Park: 10 a.m., meet at the Cougar Woods Trailhead. Registration required.
- Smith Rock State Park: 9 a.m., meet at the Welcome Center Yurt. Registration required.
- Tumalo State Park: 1 p.m., meet at the day-use entrance near the fee machine.
