Rogue Valley News, Wednesday 4/3 – Red Cross and Jackson County Fire District 3 to Install 300 Free Smoke Alarms During Sound the Alarm Event in White City & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories of interest in the Rogue Valley and the state of Oregon from the digital home of Southern Oregon, Wynne Broadcasting’s RogueValleyMagazine.com

Wednesday,  April 3, 2024

Rogue Valley Weather

Red Cross and Jackson County Fire District 3 to Install 300 Free Smoke Alarms During Sound the Alarm Event in White City

𝘾𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙁𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙐𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙄𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣:

Earlier Tuesday afternoon (4/2) Officers responded alongside the Medford Fire Department to a residential structure fire near Narregan and Bliss streets.

We’re trying to locate witnesses to this event.

If you are a witness on this case, please call 541-774-2292. Case Number: 24-5157

Skier Rescued by Douglas County Search & Rescue on Easter 

𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙈𝘼𝘿𝙂𝙀 𝘾𝙖𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙪𝙡𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝘼𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙎𝙚𝙞𝙯𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙈𝙚𝙩𝙝, 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙡, 𝙂𝙪𝙣𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙖𝙨𝙝:

Over the course of the past couple of months, the Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement team (MADGE) has been busy removing dangerous drugs and firearms from the local area. The three cases below highlight some of the work this team has been doing.

An initiative of the Southern Oregon Wildlife Crossing Coalition (SOWCC) has made progress towards its funding goals with the addition of $400,000 approved by Congress for fencing to be erected in the Mariposa Preserve for a wildlife crossing corridor over Interstate 5.

The Southern Oregon Wildlife Crossing Coalition (SOWCC) is a broad-based partnership advocating for improved wildlife movement and increased safety for motorists in the Siskiyou Summit region of I-5 between Ashland and the California border.  To accomplish this goal, we are working for the creation of a network of safe wildlife crossings. Our first project is a wildlife overpass bridge at milepost 1.7 near the Mariposa Preserve. We support state and federal efforts to increase ecological connectivity and wildlife corridors while reducing dangerous wildlife-vehicle collisions.

The coalition is affiliated with the Oregon Wildlife Foundation whose mission is to enable the lasting conservation of Oregon’s wildlife, fish, and its citizens’ enjoyment of the natural resources. SOWCC advocates for increased safety for motorists and improved wildlife movement. It is a broad-based partnership operating in the Siskiyou Summit region between Ashland and the California border on the I-5.

Wildlife Crossings To Make Road Safer  — The crossings planned follow a five-year tracking which showed that the two-mile stretch to be covered by the fence had 34 deer-vehicle collisions between 2016 and 2020. The federal funds are the first funding for the crossing to specifically target a tangible and distinct section of the project.

The executive director of the Southern Oregon Land Conservancy, Steve Wise, said that the crossing not only benefits the wildlife but also leads to a higher level of public safety. He said,  “The collisions on this highway are a risk to human safety and come at a significant cost.”

He also confirmed that in other wildlife crossings, animals are able to find the crossing instantly and the mortality rate decreased by 90% in most other crossings. 

Wildlife Corridor Over Southern Oregon’s I-5  —  The wildlife crossing will be at a junction point critical for biological diversity and will cover Klamath, the Cascades, and Siskiyou. The wildlife habitat could lower biodiversity without corridor fragmentation, and this would also make the animals less able to withstand climate change.

SOWCC is working to create a network of safe wildlife crossings, with the first project being a wildlife overpass bridge near the Mariposa Preserve at milepost 1.7. The initiative supports state and federal efforts to reduce dangerous wildlife-vehicle collisions while increasing ecological connectivity through the corridors.

With funding of over $20 million as a goal, Wise said that this is seen as an investment that will pay for itself in a very short time, despite what may seem like a hefty price tag. SOWCC, which comprises 20 different organizations and agencies, indicated that it currently has about 10% of the funding needed for the planned wildlife crossing, but hopes to get more money raised towards its goal through grants and funding from government agencies such as the Federal Highway Administration. (SOURCE) More information is available on their website here.

Delays are expected this week on Foothill Road from McAndrews to Hillcrest, including the Hillcrest/N. Phoenix intersection as contractors prepare to pave the McAndrews Road ramps next week.

On 𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟰, 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗠𝗰𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗛𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 will be c̲l̲o̲s̲e̲d̲ while contractors pave the McAndrews on and off ramps.

Detours will be available on Springbrook Road.

Drivers can expect up to 20-minute delays in this area. Current lanes on Hillcrest Road will be shifted, and traffic control will be at the Hillcrest/N. Phoenix Road intersection.

Want to get traffic alerts on your phone? Sign up for email/text notifications here: www.medfordoregon.gov/subscribe

Ashland Family YMCA, Oregon  

WE ARE HIRING!

Be part of a community, not just a workplace

FULL TIME

* Preschool Teacher

* Member Services Shift Lead

SEASONAL

* YMCA Camp DeBoer Kitchen Manager

* YMCA Camp DeBoer Kitchen Assistant and Housekeeping

* YMCA Camp DeBoer Cabin Counselor

* Day Camp Counselor at the Y

* Sports Day Camp Counselor at the Y

PART TIME

* Lifeguards (we will certify you!)

* Swim Lesson Instructors

Employment includes a FREE Membership!

For more information, and to apply:

https://ashlandymca.org/careers/

Efforts to Locate Glide Teacher Rachel Merchant-Ly Continue

𝐈𝐃𝐋𝐄𝐘𝐋𝐃 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊, 𝐎𝐫𝐞. – Search and Rescue efforts continue in the search for Rachel Merchant-Ly, a Glide Elementary kindergarten teacher whose vehicle was found crashed in the North Umpqua River. Merchant-Ly was reported missing on Thursday, February 29th when she didn’t arrive at school.

A Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy located signs of a motor vehicle crash near milepost 41 on Highway 138E. On Friday, March 1, 2024, Merchant-Ly’s vehicle was recovered from the North Umpqua River, but she was not found inside.

Since that time, nearly 300 hours volunteer hours of searching has taken place. Douglas County Search and Rescue has been using various methods of searching to include drone, ground and K9. The Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol has conducted water searches as well. Volunteers have searched along the riverbank from the crash site to Idleyld Park Trading Post; approximately 21 miles. “We all want to find Mrs. Merchant-Ly and return her to her family,” Sheriff John Hanlin said. “Our deputies are in constant communication with her family and providing them with updates as to our efforts. We will continue searching and using all means necessary to accomplish our mission,” Hanlin added.

In addition to the efforts of DCSO and Search and Rescue volunteers, several community members have been actively looking for Merchant-Ly. “We are aware of rafting guides and groups of rafters who have been launching all in an attempt to assist in finding her. We have also been contacting community members who are walking along the North Umpqua Trail and the highway,” Hanlin said. “As always this community steps forward to care for each other.” As the weather turns more springlike, the Sheriff’s Office encourages those recreating around the area to be aware Merchant-Ly is still missing and to report anything which may assist in concluding this missing person case.

Options for Education —  Education Expo

WHEN: April 13, 2024 (rescheduled because of weather from March 2) WHERE: Oregon Futbol Academy building @ 144 SW G St, Grants Pass, OR Options for Education promotes school choice options for southern Oregon families through a variety of free services: Education Expo, Educational Entrepreneur Events for networking and training, referrals and individual support. Approximately half of vendors at in this year’s Education Expo offer full course loads while the remaining are supplemental program: individual classes and workshops, tutoring, internships, clubs, art, music, athletics, field trips, or curriculum. Some organizations, like Options for Education and the newly established Rogue Valley Independent Educators, PTA, serve the education community at large.

“Every child deserves to learn in an environment where their values are respected,” said Shannon, “The goal of this event is that every parent find the right fit for their child OR is inspired to start their own!” Photo opportunities: 3:20pm before, during and 6:30 after the event. Options for Education was founded in 2019 by Brettani Shannon and established as a 5013(C) non-profit in 2022. www.OptionsforEducations.com 541.660.4054

David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active

The Ashland Police Department’s investigation into the murder of David Grubbs on November 19, 2011 remains open and active. Recently two new detectives have been assigned to look into new leads that have come in.

PART 2 – Newsweek Podcast Focusing on The Disappearance of Fauna Frey From Lane County

Here One Minute, Gone the Next —– PART 2 – Josephine County Sheriff Dave Daniel joins investigative journalist Alex Rogue to speak with Here One Minute, Gone the Next about the disappearance of Fauna Frey, the growing friction between citizen investigators and law enforcement, and the lack of resources in missing persons cases. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-disappearance-of-fauna-frey-pt2-feat-sheriff/id1707094441?i=1000630100040 PART 1 – John Frey joins Newsweek to discuss exclusive details about the case of his missing daughter that until now have been unavailable to the general public. READ MORE HERE: https://www.newsweek.com/exclusive-what-happened-fauna-frey-new-clues-uncovered-1827197?fbclid=IwAR3Z3Glru5lIgqiYXbs_nA1Fj8JuCIzM11OHSVHfwIucfq2f_G5y9y5bnmQ If you have any information on the whereabouts of Fauna Frey, call the anonymous tip line at 541-539-5638 or email FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com.

Help Find Fauna Frey #FindFaunaFrey FACEBOOK GROUP

Tips to Watch The 2024 Solar Eclipse 

The partial eclipse over Oregon on April 8 from beginning to end will be just shy of of two hours, beginning around 10:30 a.m. until about 12:15 p.m.

Peak coverage in Oregon will range from 11:20 to 11:30 a.m. when the sun is pretty high, so we should be able to see the eclipse pretty much anywhere, weather permitted.

“You don’t need to go on top of the mountains or anything, but maybe on top of a hill … anywhere that you’ve got a nice, open view of the southern sky,” said University of Oregon astronomy professor Scott Fisher.

Because Oregon is already so far from this eclipse’s path of totality, Fisher said there’s also no need drive any where for a better view. Across the entire state, the difference in percent coverage at peak is only about 5%.

“We’re sort of out on the fringe of the eclipse this time where we’re only getting this sort of 25% coverage,” he said.

The entire partial eclipse from start to finish will be about three hours in Oregon. The moon will begin covering the sun at about 10:30 a.m. and move away at about 12:15 p.m.

Viewers in Eugene will see a peak of 24% coverage at 11:23 a.m. In Salem, the peak will be at 11:24 a.m. Across all of Oregon, the peak will range from around 11:20 to 11:30 a.m.

Weather permitting, the sun will be high in the sky at the time of the eclipse, however, cloud coverage could affect the viewing experience. According to the National Weather Service, both the Eugene and Salem areas are usually overcast 50% of the time in April and only clear about 10% of the time.

NASA will have live coverage of the eclipse from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. as the eclipse travels through Mexico and across the United States.

Coverage will include live views across the path, expert commentary and live demonstrations

Solar Eclipse Viewing Safety Tips

• Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection, as it is harmful to your eyes at any time during a partial eclipse.
• Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark tinted, are not safe for viewing.
• Eclipse glasses are the best option. Be sure they are made by companies recommended by the American Astronomical Society and NASA certified. These glasses should have the International Organization for Standardization icon and must have the ISO reference number 12312-2.
• Always inspect your eclipse glasses or handheld viewer before use. If torn, scratched or otherwise damaged, discard the device.
• Without eclipse glasses, a simple and safe way to view the eclipse is to watch the sun’s image projected onto a piece of paper. Poke a small hole in an index card with a pencil point, face it toward the sun and hold a second card 3 or 4 feet behind it in its shadow. You will see a projected image of the sun on the second card.
• Do not look at the sun through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars or any other optical device while wearing eclipse glasses or using a handheld solar viewer, as the concentrated solar rays will burn through the filter and cause serious eye injury. These require different types of solar filters that attach to the front of the device.

This April: U Drive. U Text. U Pay National High Visibility Enforcement Mobilization

U Drive. U Text. U Pay is a campaign Oregon Department of Transportation is bringing to the state. April is Oregon Impact’s “Distracted Driving Awareness Month” and Eugene Police Traffic Safety Unit and others across the state will be conducting special enforcement this April to make the roads safer and reinforce safer driving behavior.

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Eugene Police, in alignment with this, will be providing education and enforcement to focus on how dangerous it is to drive distracted. Eugene Police Traffic Safety Unit will conduct several enforcements in April and will be posting for overtime enforcement throughout the month to support these efforts.

When someone diverts their attention from driving to something else, they are in the danger zone – for crashes, and for citations. It is illegal in Oregon to drive while holding or using an electronic device (e.g. cell phone, tablet, GPS, laptop). There are some exceptions, but for the most part, it’s best just to turn off your device when you are driving. Distracted driving is one of the fastest growing safety issues on the roads today. Distracted drivers are not just a threat to themselves; they are a danger to everyone else on the road.

The national distracted driving effort focuses on ways to change the behavior of drivers through legislation, enforcement, public awareness, and education. Resource page: https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/…/u-drive-u-text…

Here are a few cases where the law does not apply:

• When using hands-free or built-in devices, if you are 18 years of age or older.

• Use of a single touch or swipe to activate or deactivate the device.

• When parked safely, i.e., stopped in a designated parking spot. – However, it is NOT legal to use the device when stopped at a stop light, stop sign, in traffic, etc.

• While providing or summoning medical help and no one else is available to make the call.

• Police, fire, EMS providers in the scope of employment, (can include when in a personal vehicle if, for example, when responding to an emergency call).

• To truck or bus drivers following the federal rules for CDL holders.

• When using a two-way radio if you are a CB user, school bus driver, utility truck driver in scope of employment.

• If you are a HAM radio operator age 18 years or older.

Violations: A first offense that doesn’t contribute to a crash is a Class B violation and the Eugene fine is $300 or maximum fine of $1,000. A second offense, or if the first offense contributes to a crash, is Class A violation with a fine of $500 or maximum fine of $2,500. A third offense in ten years is a Class B misdemeanor and could result in a $6,250 fine and up to one year in jail.

For a first offense that does not contribute to a crash, the court may suspend the fine* if the driver completes an approved distracted driving avoidance class, and shows proof to the court, within four months. *Only the fine is suspended – the violation will still be recorded on the offender’s driving record.

Local Communities Connect to Prevent Food Waste in Oregon

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality is once again excited to recognize National Food Waste Prevention Week. This year’s observance will span the week of April 1-7, 2024 and will feature a dynamic schedule of virtual and in-person educational events for a variety of audiences. Events include workshops, student art contests, food waste trivia and quizzes, upcycled food events, and a new video contest open to all kindergarten-12^th grade students and teachers in the State of Oregon. Partner organizations have the opportunity to utilize a robust communications toolkit with digital advertising materials, event and messaging templates, and more. This year’s partner resources also include many materials in Spanish.

“We’re so pleased to continue to support this major national event highlighting an issue of importance in the State of Oregon,” said Oregon Department of Environmental Quality Senior Policy and Program Analyst, Elaine Blatt. “The resources available through Food Waste Prevention Week really help us augment our outreach efforts for food waste education.”

The inaugural Food Heroes: Save Food, Save the Planet Video Contest will accept video entries until May 10, 2024. Students and teachers will create short videos with messages related to food waste and how to prevent waste in their communities and upload the video to an approved streaming platform through DEQ’s dontletgoodfoodgobad.org/contest website. Prizes for submissions include a $100 gift card for individuals, a $200 gift card for groups, and a $300 gift card for classrooms.

Additional virtual and in-person events around the State of Oregon will include, but are not limited to:

• Food Waste Prevention Week PublicHouse Event hosted by Lane County and City of Eugene
  • Date: April 3, 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Location: PublicHouse, 418 A St #4606, Springfield, OR 97477
• Sustainable Living Series – Community Composting: A Hero for the Future hosted by Southern Oregon Food Solutions
  • Date: April 3, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Location: 569 Hanley Rd, Central Point, OR 97502 (Auditorium)
• Come Mejor Ahorrando Más – Semana de Prevención de Desperdicio de Alimentos hosted by Washington County
  • Date: April 4, 6:00 p.m.
  • Location: Virtual Webinar
• Bread to Tap Event hosted by No Food Left Behind Corvallis, Old World Deli, Oregon Trails Brewery
  • Date: April 6, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Location: Old World Deli: 341 SW 2nd Street, Corvallis, OR 97333
• Food Waste Prevention Week Storytime hosted by the City of Gresham
  • Date: April 6, 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Maggie Mae’s Bookshop: 50 NW 1^st St, Gresham, OR 97030
• Food Waste Prevention Week Lane County Farmers Market Booth hosted by Lane County and City of Eugene
  • Date: April 6, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Lane County Farmer’s Market, 85 E 8th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401
• Umpqua Valley Farmers’ Market Booth hosted by Thrive Umpqua, Umpqua Valley Farm to School, HealTerra & Umpqua Valley Farmers’ Market
  • Date: April 6, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: Umpqua Valley Farmers Market, 1771 W Harvard Ave, Roseburg, OR 97471
• Thrifty Gardening Workshop
  • Date: April 13, 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: Roseburg Senior Center, 1614 SE Stephens St, Roseburg, OR 97470
• Vermicomposting Workshop hosted by Thrive Umpqua, Umpqua Valley Farm to School, HealTerra & Umpqua Valley Farmers’ Market
  • Date: April 19, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Location: HealTerra, 13921 Glide Disposal Site Rd, Roseburg, OR 97470
• The Green Fork Initiative, a short film by Chef Andre Uribe of Rebel Root Films, hosted by Hillsboro Farmer’s Markets and Washington County
  • Date/Location: Individuals can use the link to view the film on Vimeo throughout Food Waste Prevention Week

OHCS celebrates April as Fair Housing Month

This month also marks 56 years since the passage of the Fair Housing Act

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) celebrates April as Fair Housing Month in Oregon following Governor Tina Kotek’s proclamation. The declaration recognizes the state’s continuous efforts to provide fair and equal housing opportunities to all.

“Celebrating Fair Housing Month is a reminder to uphold fairness and equity every day,” said Director Andrea Bell. “Fair housing ensures access to housing regardless of any outside biases or stereotypes, creating communities where all can thrive.”

Each April, OHCS along with fair housing advocates, communities, and organizations across Oregon recognize Fair Housing Month by hosting events to commemorate its significance and impact.

OHCS and the Fair Housing Council of Oregon are offering a series of fair housing trainings throughout 2024. These are free webinars for anyone interested in learning more about fair housing issues statewide and how to prevent illegal discrimination in Oregon. For more information about fair housing rights, visit the Fair Housing Council of Oregon website.

OHCS will also be posting fair housing resources throughout the month on social media.

This year’s commemoration coincides with the 56th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the landmark civil rights law on April 11, 1968. It made discrimination in housing transactions unlawful. Fair housing guarantees that regardless of race, sex, national origin, religion, family situation, or level of ability, everyone has the right to housing that fits their needs.

Nationally, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) kicked off Fair Housing Month 2024 with this year’s theme, “The Act in Action.”

comunicado de prensa en español

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)  — OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade Launches Public Information Campaign for May Primary Election

With the May Primary Election right around the corner, the Secretary of State’s Office is launching a public information campaign aimed at providing Oregon voters with accurate and trusted information about elections.

“False information is as prolific as ever, meaning it’s more important than ever that Oregonians know where to get accurate information from a trusted source,” said Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade. “Voting in Oregon feels good, and this is just one way we’re spreading the word.”

This campaign is part of a larger initiative with the Secretary’s In Oregon, this campaign includes:

1. Continuing the success of our public service announcements done in partnership with Happylucky, a Portland-based design firm. These include animated videos, radio spots, and graphics for print and social media in the most commonly spoken languages in Oregon.

These PSAs are a fun way to inform voters with accurate information from an official, trusted source. In 2022, the campaign generated a 259% increase in the number of people visiting OregonVotes.gov. Research shows this approach can limit the impact of false information.

The latest PSA highlights all the ways we work to keep elections accurate, safe, and secure. Previous PSAs have shared information about closed primaries and the postmark rule. The Elections Division encourages media outlets to air these materials as part of the effort to combat false information.

The Legislature allocated $150,000 for the 2024 PSA campaign. The Secretary of State’s Office is working with Gard Communications on the PSAs, which launched today.

1. A social media campaign designed to reach voters with accurate information in easy to understand — and easy to share — formats. You can follow the campaign on the Election Division’s Facebook and Twitter.

The Elections Division continues to share plain language information on how elections in Oregon work and debunking common myths. The division’s website, OregonVotes.gov, is the best source of accurate information from a trusted source that strives to keep Oregonians informed and answer any questions.

What you need to know about the May 2024 primary election

• The deadline to register to vote, update your voter registration, or register with a political party is April 30, 2024.
• Both the Republican and Democratic parties in Oregon choose to hold closed primaries. That means you won’t see those candidates on your ballot unless you are a registered member of the party.
• Ballots will be sent out starting May 1, 2024.
• Election Day is May 21, 2024. Ballots must be received by 8 p.m. or postmarked on this day to be counted.
• Return your ballot in the mail, at a county clerk’s office, or at any of the secure, official drop boxes available throughout the state. Your ballot will be routed to the county in which you are registered to vote for processing.
• The postmark rule, passed in 2021, allows ballots postmarked on or before Election Day to count even if they are received up to seven days later. These ballots are not late — they were cast on time and will be counted alongside every other vote cast before 8 p.m. on Election Day. For this reason, election results may be delayed because it will take a few days for all the votes to be counted.
• Preliminary results will be available on the Secretary of State website starting at 8 p.m. on Election Day.
• The last day for the Secretary to certify election results is June 27, 2024.
• The 2024 elections will be the most secure elections in history. Learn all the ways we protect your vote at OregonVotes.gov/Integrity

Oregon to get portion of $21 billion for early and postsecondary education allocated by Congress

Education agencies, institutions and nonprofits in Oregon are slated to a portion of more than $21.3 billion from Congress for the current year.

The money is part of a $1.2 trillion federal spending package recently approved by Congress. It includes billions for child care, preschool, special education and higher education programs, as well as money for bolstering the workforce and health care projects, including in Oregon.

A news release from Oregon’s U.S. Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden said the money is aimed to help rural, coastal, and underserved communities in particular.

The funding follows the state’s short session that ended with little new money for education programs. Oregon’s 197 school districts got $30 million to fund summer school – $20 million less than Gov. Tina Kotek had requested – and $171 million for a program to help working parents afford childcare – $50 million less than what advocates had hoped.

As part of the federal spending package, Oregon will get a portion of more than $8.7 billion in grants for child care centers and to help families with children younger than 6 – and whose income falls below 85% of the state’s median income – afford child care. In Oregon that would apply to household income of up to about $65,000 a year.

More than $12 billion will go to federal Head Start and Early Head Start child care and preschool programs for low-income families nationwide. The programs will get an additional $315 million to grow all manner of preschool programs.

Nearly $376 million will be funneled into nonprofits, community colleges and universities to provide scholarships for migrant students and seasonal farmworkers and their children to pursue higher education or earn their GED, an alternative to a four-year high school diploma. In Oregon, money will flow to Oregon State University, Chemeketa Community College, Portland Community College and Treasure Valley Community College.

More than $14 billion is allocated for special education programs nationwide. It’s $20 million more than the Congress allocated during the 2023 fiscal year.

Still, advocates said, it’s less than what is needed.

“While a $20 million increase in federal funding is welcome, the funding falls far short of what Congress promised in 1975 and what children with disabilities need today,” Jake Cornett, executive director of Disability Rights Oregon, said in an email. “When Congress passed the federal special education law it set a target of funding 40% of the average per-pupil cost, yet $14.2 billion in funding only represents 12%. Congress has got a long way to go to make good on their 40% goal.”

About $1.2 billion will go to federal TRIO programs that support first-generation college students and students from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as low-income and homeless students.

Merkley, a member of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee since 2013, noted in the news release that he’s the first in his family with a college degree.

“Merkley knows firsthand the value of this type of support and has been a fierce advocate for the funding,” the news release said. (SOURCE)

$6 Million Worth of Oregon Properties Forfeited in Connection to Interstate Marijuana Trafficking Organization

PORTLAND, Ore.—The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon announced today that it has forfeited on behalf of the United States 14 real properties located in Oregon—together worth more than $5.7 million—that were used by an interstate drug trafficking organization to illegally grow marijuana for redistribution and sale in other states. The owner of a 15th property agreed to pay the government $400,000 in lieu of having their property forfeited.

Beginning at an unknown time, and continuing until September 2021, the properties, located in Clatsop, Columbia, Linn, Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties, were used as illegal marijuana grow houses by an interstate drug trafficking organization led by Fayao “Paul” Rong, 53, of Houston, Texas. On July 19, 2023, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to manufacture marijuana, Rong was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

“This prosecution and yearslong effort to forfeit properties used by the Rong organization to grow and process thousands of pounds of marijuana demonstrate the long reach of our commitment to holding drug traffickers accountable and mitigating the damage these criminal organizations inflict on neighborhoods and communities,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

“The goal of drug traffickers is to generate profits through their crimes,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Seattle Field Division. “The DEA and our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon and the Oregon State Police worked hard in this case to investigate and forfeit the ill-gotten gains of this organization, benefiting our entire community.”

“The Oregon State Police is committed to disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking organizations operating within our state. Our priorities include safeguarding Oregon’s natural resources and mitigating the impact illicit marijuana has on them,” said Tyler Bechtel, Oregon State Police (OSP) Lieutenant. “This case is a great example of the results that can be achieved when all levels of law enforcement work together toward our common goals.”

According to court documents, Rong purchased numerous residential houses in Oregon using several different identities and, with others in his organization, used them to grow and process marijuana and prepare it for transport to states where its use remains illegal. In a 12-month period beginning August 2020, Rong’s organization trafficked more than $13.2 million dollars in black market marijuana.

In early September 2021, a coordinated law enforcement operation led by DEA and OSP targeted Rong’s organization. Federal, state, and local law enforcement partners executed search warrants on 25 Oregon residences and Rong’s home in Houston. During the precipitating investigation and ensuing search warrants, investigators seized nearly 33,000 marijuana plants, 1,800 pounds of packaged marijuana, 23 firearms, nine vehicles, $20,000 in money orders, and more than $591,000 in cash.

The Rong organization takedown followed a 14-month investigation initiated by OSP after the agency learned of excessive electricity use at the various properties, which, in several instances, resulted in transformer explosions. Multiple citizen complaints corroborated law enforcement’s belief that Rong was leading a large black market marijuana operation. With the assistance of the Columbia and Polk County Sheriff’s Offices, OSP found associated marijuana grows in Clatsop, Columbia, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, and Polk Counties. On February 18, 2022, Rong was arrested by DEA agents in Houston.

This case was investigated by DEA, OSP, and the U.S. Marshals Service with assistance from the FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; Oregon Department of Justice; Portland Police Bureau; the Yamhill, Clatsop, Marion, Multnomah, Columbia, and Polk County Sheriff’s Offices; Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team; and Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team. It was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon. Forfeiture proceedings were handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Division.

The proceeds of forfeited assets are deposited in the Justice Department’s Assets Forfeiture Fund (AFF) and used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of other law enforcement purposes. To learn more about the AFF, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/afp/assets-forfeiture-fund-aff.

This prosecution is the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the U.S. by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

West Coast whale population recovers 5 years after hundreds washed up ashore

Federal researchers indicate the gray whale population along the West Coast is showing signs of recovery five years after hundreds washed up dead on beaches from Alaska to Mexico.

The increase in population numbers comes after the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association determined in November that the “unusual mortality event” that began in 2019 has ended.

“It’s nice to be able to report some good news the last couple of years,” Aimee Lang, a research biologist with NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center, told The Seattle Times.

The agency has estimated the total number of eastern north Pacific Gray whales to be between 17,400 to 21,300, an increase from an estimated 13,200 to 15,960 whales last year.

The population began to decline after numbering about 27,000 whales in 2016. The mortality event hits its peak between Dec. 17, 2018, and Dec. 31, 2020, the agency said. It involved 690 dead gray whales that washed ashore from Alaska to Mexico. Of those, 347 were in the U.S., 316 in Mexico and 27 in Canada.

In an average year, about 35 whales washed up dead in the U.S. Five years ago, those whales washed up on coastlines in California, Oregon, Washington state and Alaska.

Every year in late September, whales migrate 10,000 miles (16,093 km) from feeding grounds in the Arctic to birth their calves along Mexico’s Baja Peninsula.

NOAA researchers said the mortality event was due to ecosystem changes in the northern Bering and Chukchi seas off northern Alaska, which changed access to and quality of prey.

“These changes contributed to the poor nutritional condition observed in live whales in the wintering areas of Mexico and dead stranded gray whales in all three countries,” NOAA said. “This malnutrition led to increased mortality during the whales’ annual northward migration (from Mexico to Alaska) and decreased production of calves. This resulted in an overall decline in population abundance.”

The eastern North Pacific gray whales were removed from the endangered species list in 1994, after recovering from the whaling era. (SOURCE)

The Oregon Department of Transportation’s Bridge Condition Report Provides A Snapshot Of The Condition Of Bridges In Oregon

The Oregon Department of Transportation’s annual bridge report says the agency is “losing ground” to manage the state’s bridge system, as many are nearing the end of their life spans and planners are trying to keep up with new safety measures and seismic standards.

“With only an average of three bridges replaced annually ODOT
continues to lose ground in the eff ort to manage the system. Although a significant
portion of these bridges are in fair condition at this time, in the following decades, the
agency will be burdened with a huge responsibility to maintain or replace the 40% of
the inventory built between 1951-1970, as they continue to deteriorate.”

The 2023 Bridge Condition Report provides a snapshot of the condition of bridges in Oregon that are on state highways. Condition information is measured by Oregon’s Bridge Key Performance Measure and by the National
Bridge Performance Measure. In addition to condition information, there is information on bridge programs that are in place to manage and preserve state highway bridges. These include Major Bridge Maintenance, Bridge Preservation, the Seismic Program, and Load Rating. Eff orts to maintain and preserve existing bridges are critical, as an average of just three bridges are replaced each year. With adequate funding, approximately 27 state highway bridges could be replaced annually which is consistent with a 100-year service life.

According to ODOT’s 2023 Bridge Condition Report, a significant number of the more than 2,700 bridges in Oregon are in “fair” condition, but likely to transition to “poor” condition in the future.

40% of the bridges across the state need to be replaced in the coming decades, as a majority of them were built between 1950 and 1970 according to the report.

According to the report, there has been a “steady decline” in Oregon’s bridge conditions since 2016. There was some slight improvement in 2023 when nine bridges in “poor condition” were replaced, but ODOT does not have the funding to keep up with bride replacement. With adequate funding, ODOT could replace 27 bridges a year, but current funding levels pay on average for only three bridge replacements a year. At this rate, a bridge will need to stay in service for over 900 years, well beyond the expected service life of 75-100 years.

One of the serious causes of bridge deterioration is “scouring” or erosion of the bridge’s foundation due to fast moving water and gravel. ODOT officials said there are nearly 500 bridges that are unstable due to scouring.

ODOT officials said that as standards are constantly changing, and costs continue to rise, the bridges’ needs outpace their resources. READ MORE: https://www.oregon.gov/odot/Bridge/Documents/2023BCR.pdf

Oregon to Honor Fallen Law Enforcement Officers May 7th, 2024

Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 7 at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.

The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations.

SOLVE invites volunteers to register for their annual Earth Day celebration: The Oregon Spring Cleanup

From April 13 to April 22, families, community members, neighborhood associations, and environmental enthusiasts are invited to engage in a signature event in SOLVE’s annual calendar: The Oregon Spring Cleanup, presented by Portland General Electric. Registration for this environmentally conscious event series is now open.

Participants are invited to join SOLVE, event leaders, and partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a collective celebration of Earth Day. The SOLVE calendar showcases a variety of events throughout Oregon and SW Washington between April 13 and April 22, with the majority of events culminating on April 20. Diverse initiatives address specific environmental needs with opportunities ranging from beach cleanups to neighborhood and city litter pickups. Further activities include restoring natural habitats through native tree and shrub plantings, weed pulls, and mulching projects. Each project contributes to the enhancement of our shared surroundings.

With a variety of projects already online, the Oregon Spring Cleanup invites enthusiastic volunteers to contribute to a cleaner, greener, and brighter planet. Interested individuals can browse the map of projects to find events near them, learn about each opportunity, and sign up for a meaningful contribution to the environment. Participating in the Oregon Spring Cleanup provides an excellent opportunity to bond with family members, coworkers, and neighbors, while collectively contributing to preserving some of Oregon’s most stunning locations.

As SOLVE anticipates another successful event, valued partner Portland General Electric, shares their commitment to the cause: ” PGE proudly supports SOLVE’s efforts to make our communities cleaner and greener. In 2023, our employees and their families volunteered with SOLVE for more than 220 hours. We’re excited to join community members again this Earth Day to help improve our beautiful state.” said Kristen Sheeran, Senior Director of Policy Planning and Sustainability, Portland General Electric.

For those inspired to host an event, SOLVE is still accepting new volunteer-led projects. The sooner projects are submitted, the faster SOLVE can care for the rest. Event leaders receive full support, including free supplies, access to project funding, disposal assistance, and help with volunteer recruitment.

For more information, please visit solveoregon.org/oregon-spring and be part of the collective effort to create a cleaner, greener planet.

Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, Trimet, and PepsiCo.

About SOLVE – SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.

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