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

Monday,  November 4, 2024

Rogue Valley Weather

Jackson County Public Health Issues Overdose Alert for Fentanyl

According to a news release from Jackson County Public Health, there was an increase in medical service responses, emergency department admissions and suspected fatal overdoses between Oct. 27 and Nov. 2.

“Illicitly manufactured fentanyl can be sold as counterfeit pills, such as oxycontin, or in a powder form, which can look like other drugs, such as cocaine and methamphetamine,” the release said. “Fentanyl can also be mixed with other illicit opioids, such as heroin. The increased presence of fentanyl in the drug supply increases the risk of poisoning or overdosing for people who are experimenting with drugs, who use recreationally and not intentionally using fentanyl.”

Health officials say the best step to protect yourself is to abstain from illicit opioids altogether.

“There is no safe way to use illicit opioids, such as fentanyl, but there are steps that can be taken to help reduce the risk of overdosing,” the release said. “The street drug supply is unpredictable and inconsistent. Assume there is a risk of drug poisoning or overdosing no matter what drug is used.”

Authorities also urge residents to call 911 when someone is overdosing.

“The Good Samaritan Law protects someone from being arrested or prosecuted for drug-related charges or parole/probation violations based on information provided to emergency responders,” the release said.

Residents can also use drug testing strips to test their drug supply for fentanyl, the release said. Fentanyl test strips are available through Jackson County’s Syringe Exchange Programs.

Those who do use opioids should have an overdose plan, the release said, making sure someone can get to them. If they are alone, they can use the 24/7 Never Use Alone Hotline at 1-877-696-1996.

Finally, they recommend carrying naloxone with you. According to the release, naloxone is available over the counter at most pharmacies and is also available through Max’s Mission and HIV Alliance.

For locations closest to you that have naloxone, click here.

For help with drug addiction, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). This hotline is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can also find a list of resources here. 

MORE INFO: https://jacksoncountyor.gov/news_detail_T10_R433.php#:~:text=Fentanyl%20test%20strips%20are%20available,a%20safe%20person%20with%20you.

Two Fatal Crashes in Josephine County on Saturday

Tragedy struck Josephine County over the weekend as two separate vehicle crashes claimed the lives of two young individuals. The Oregon State Police (OSP) announced the incidents today, which occurred in Williams and Grants Pass late Saturday night.

The first accident happened around 10:35 p.m. on Water Gap Road in Williams, according to OSP. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and confirmed that the driver, a 16-year-old male, had died in the crash. OSP’s preliminary investigation suggests that speed and wet road conditions may have contributed to the accident. Authorities noted that the driver was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Due to the driver’s age, his name has not been released.

Just a short time later, at approximately 11:00 p.m., a second fatal crash occurred in Grants Pass at the intersection of Redwood Avenue and Jenkins Avenue. The driver, identified as 23-year-old Trevor Aron Dimick, was found unresponsive in his car, which had ended up in a roadside ditch after colliding with a tree. According to OSP, the initial investigation indicates that Dimick’s vehicle was traveling south on Jenkins Avenue, where it reportedly failed to stop at a stop sign, crossed Redwood Avenue, and then struck the tree on the opposite side of the ditch.

OSP reported that family members have been notified in both cases. The crashes have left the local community in shock and mourning, as residents grapple with the sudden and tragic loss of two lives. The investigations into both incidents remain ongoing.

Fatal Crash – HWY 140 – Jackson County

𝗠𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗰𝘆𝗰𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗹𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝗷𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻; 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗿𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗨𝗜𝗜 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗮𝘂𝗹𝘁:

Sunday night Officers responded to a serious motor vehicle crash involving a motorcycle at Table Rock Road and Berrydale Avenue.

Marine Board Seeks Written Public Comments on Proposed Upper Rogue River Rules

Auction in Medford of The Defective Modular Homes That Were Intended to Help Families That Lost Homes in Almeda Fire Starts Again November 7th

Oregon Housing and Community Services, the state’s housing agency, will auction off 140 defective modular homes in a series of two-week-long auctions.

The state purchased the homes in 2021, with most of them intended to rebuild Royal Oaks Mobile Manor in Phoenix, which was destroyed in the 2020 Almeda Fire. Families who lost their homes in the fire were prioritized for housing.

But last summer, the homes were found to be unfit to live in, due to mold, water leaks and other issues. There are unresolved questions about why the homes had defects.

Now, OHCS has announced it will auction off the defective homes in an effort to recoup some of the approximately $24 million dollars it says it spent on them.

Caleb Yant, deputy director of OHCS, said buyers will be informed about their quality.

“We’re very intentionally disclosing everything that we know, so there’s notices going out to all potential buyers of the different inspections that we’ve had, the code violations, the reports that we’ve done, had experts do on water intrusion, those sorts of things. So potential buyers know exactly the status of the units,” he said.

He said buyers will also have access to hundreds of photos of the units, and there will be an opportunity for buyers to inspect the units themselves and “bring whatever professionals that they need in order to really understand the current status of the units.”

After the homes were found to be defective, OHCS said in August 2023 that it planned to rebuild them with a different manufacturer. But in March, it changed tactics and announced it would replace the homes instead. A new manufacturer is currently building long-awaited new homes for Royal Oaks.

Originally, move-in for fire survivors was slated for September 2023. The new batch of modular homes could now be ready for move-in in April 2025.

OHCS says these auctions will occur in coordination with the state’s Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Surplus and a third-party service called GovDeals, which DAS regularly uses to sell state-owned equipment.

“We know that there is a number of parties who are interested in purchasing the homes and repair them,” OHCS said in a statement.

But it’s unclear how much these defective modular homes will sell for.

“It’s challenging to predict what the price point will be,” Yant said. “I don’t think that we’re expecting to recoup the entire amount [we spent on them].”

Meanwhile, OHCS and Oregon’s Department of Justice are in ongoing legal proceedings related to why the original batch of modular homes had defects, according to OHCS. Yant declined to comment on that litigation but said the auctions are not the only way OHCS is working to recoup funds.

Some have wondered if the state was negligent in caring for the original modular homes in the period between construction and installation. It took time to find a suitable location for them, so they were left sitting for months. OHCS said the problems were not due to the homes being unoccupied for so long but because of problems with the manufacturing.

The first two-week auction will begin on Oct. 29 and will include 33 homes. The next auction will begin on Nov. 7 and will include 35 homes. Those 68 homes are all currently being stored in Medford. There are also 72 additional homes that the state purchased from the manufacturer, Nashua Builders in Boise, that are still in Idaho. Yant says they will be moved into Oregon and auctioned off in the spring of 2025.

Anyone who would like to register to participate in the auction can do so here. (SOURCE)

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1257353498922992

Child Sexual Predator Eluded Capture in Idaho, Has Ties to Southern Oregon, He May Be Dressed as a Woman

– A fugitive with ties to the southern Oregon region is on-the-run after eluding capture Tuesday, October 22 in Idaho. Christian Bert Fischer, 42, is wanted in Florida for Traveling to Meet a Minor After Use of a Computer to Lure a Child.

Fischer is a white male, 5’10”, 200 lbs., has blonde hair and blue-colored eyes. He is also known to dress like a woman. Before heading to Idaho, Fischer was in the Portland area. This June and July, he was in Ashland, Lake of the Woods, and Wolf Creek.

U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) task forces throughout the country have joined the search, including the local Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force (PNVOTF). If you have any information on Fischer’s whereabouts, contact the local USMS office at (541) 776-4277, the USMS Communication Center at 1-800-336-0102, or USMS Tips at www.usmarshals.gov/tips.

PNVOTF includes personnel from the U.S. Marshals, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and Central Point Police Department. The task force specializes in locating and arresting fugitives wanted for offenses including, but not limited to, murder, assault, sex crimes, failure to register as a sex offender, firearm violations, and probation violations.

Did you get help from FEMA, insurance, or others after the 2020 Almeda and South Obenchain Fires?

You can schedule an appointment directly with our Intake Specialists through our website  https://firebrandcollective.org/harp/

Visita la página de HARP en nuestro sitio web para pedir cita hoy mismo.

 firebrandcollective.org/harp/

Rogue Valley Humane Society  · Donations Always Needed to Help Community

Our Community Food Bank exists to help folks who need an extra helping hand during a difficult month to feed their pets. Our program has a limited budget and so we rely on generous members of our community to donate some of these goods to continue to help assist our community.

In 2023 we fed an average of 700 pets a month! This equates to approximately 70 – 40lb bags of food each month!  Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.

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.

It has been more than Four Years since Fauna Frey, 45, disappeared in Oregon on a road trip, June 29, 2020, following her brother’s death

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

Oregon Housing and Community Services invests $165 million to build 550+ affordable homes across Oregon

— On Friday, the Oregon Housing Stability Council approved a significant $165 million investment to help address the affordable housing crisis. This funding will support the construction of eight new housing developments, delivering more than 550 affordable homes to communities statewide. These projects will include 465 new rental homes, 87 homes for low-income homebuyers, and offer rental assistance and support services for residents at The Commons on MLK in Eugene.

“We know there is more work to do, yet these gains show what’s possible when we work together,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “With each new home, we are building a brighter future for the state we love. A future where families won’t be forced to move multiple times in a school year to find an affordable place to live. A future where progress is driven by the community and supported by the state. A future where we bridge the gap between our current reality and our potential, making life better for all Oregonians.”

Development details:

Rental

Homeownership

These developments address a critical need for affordable housing and community resources. Many of the rental developments will include spaces for resident services, such as community rooms, playgrounds, and on-site programs. For example, Colonia Libertad II in Salem will offer after-school programs and financial literacy workshops to support agricultural workers and their families.

Homeownership developments, such as Thompson Springs in Tillamook, are designed with affordability and inclusivity in mind. Thompson Springs will incorporate universal design features to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities.

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.

Notification Process for Elections and Resources for Addressing Hate Speech and Bias Crimes

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is committed to supporting safety, and preparedness during election periods and beyond. OEM emphasizes the importance of addressing hate speech and bias crimes that impact our communities.

Understanding Hate Crimes:

A hate crime is defined as a crime motivated in part or whole by bias against another person’s actual or perceived protected class—including race, color, disability, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Examples of hate crimes include:

• Racist or discriminatory graffiti.
• Theft or destruction of symbols such as Pride flags.
• Threats involving slurs or derogatory language.
• Physical assault based on someone’s identity.

Reporting Hate Crimes:

If you or someone you know experiences a hate crime, it is crucial to report the incident. Oregon residents have access to the following reporting resources:

Non-Emergency Bias Response Hotline
Phone: 1-844-924-BIAS (1-844-924-2427)
Available: Monday – Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time

Details: Trauma-informed operators are ready to assist. Interpretation services are available in over 240 languages. If you call outside of business hours, please leave a message, and someone will return your call.

Online Reporting:

Bias crimes and incidents can also be reported via the Oregon Department of Justice’s Bias Crime Reporting website.

Support:

An important resource for Oregonians is the Voter Protection Hotline, managed by the Oregon Department of Justice. This hotline, launched earlier this month, will remain active until after the election to assist voters with non-emergency questions and concerns about the voting process. The hotline number is 971-673-4111, and messages are reviewed regularly, with calls returned within 24 hours on weekdays and on Monday following the weekend. Voters should call the hotline if they suspect or have experienced any types of voter intimidation, at a voter drop box or elsewhere.

Trauma-informed support is key when dealing with hate crimes. Being “trauma-informed” means understanding how trauma affects people. It means knowing how trauma can change a person’s feelings, actions and overall well-being. Being trauma-informed means, we create a safe and supportive space to help people heal without making things worse. It’s about showing empathy, knowing what the survivor needs, and giving the right care and support.

To learn more about staying informed and reporting bias incidents during the election, please visit the Secretary of State’s and the Department of Justice’s websites.

### It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

After Decades of Growth, Oregon’s Population Is Shrinking. A Top Economist Examines Why.

Economist Mark McMullen produced a snapshot of Oregon last week that could make readers fear the state is in the kind of decline Rust Belt states such as Ohio and Michigan have endured. Seen from another angle, the same report could leave you feeling pleasantly surprised.

McMullen’s report drew on new U.S. census data and found big shifts. “Since 2020, the state has witnessed profound changes in its demographic dynamics,” the report says. “Although migrants continue to be drawn to the state, some residents are leaving and the birth rate has been very low, leading to small population losses.”

Source: After Decades of Growth, Oregon’s Population Is Shrinking. A Top Economist Examines Why.

Prosecutors in southern Oregon unveiled felony charges against two women accused of forging a will to steal a roughly $2 million estate

The charges against Renee Pereira and her daughter, Kristine Pereira, include attempted aggravated theft, identify theft, forgery, and computer crimes. Both pleaded not guilty in court appearances late last month.

A prior KATU investigation found how difficult it can be to stop an invalid will from taking effect in Oregon.

Kristy Gerlett – the daughter of the woman who died in this case – has been fighting for more than a year and pushing investigators to charge the women she believed forged her mom’s signature on a will. The will disinherited Kristy.

The indictments accuse the women of forging the notary’s signature and seal, the signatures of two witnesses, and the signature of Cathy Gerlett on the will. It says they did so to steal Cathy’s estate. The alleged forged will gave 80% of Cathy’s estate to Kristine Pereira.

“Out of the 8 billion people on this planet, only one benefited from it. One. And it just so happens that her mom was the one that turned it in,” Kristy said.

A prior KATU investigation found it was up to Renee Pereira to vet the will in question. Court records show she filed it in probate court in April 2023. The judge initially accepted it and allowed it to go into effect. The same judge threw it out in September 2023.

Klamath County District attorney David Schutt said the suspects preyed on the death of a loved on and did so to steal a $2 million estate.

“This involved a premeditated and coordinated effort of the defendant and her mother to steal a vast sum of money – an estate valued in excess of $2 million dollars, and in so doing disinherited a biological daughter which is Ms. Gerlett. They preyed on the circumstances surrounding the death of a loved one to get this done,” Schutt said at Kristine Pereira’s arraignment.

Now, Kristy wants more done – including additional criminal charges over the use of her mom’s credit card account after she died. The charges included two $1,000 purchases at Fred Meyer. Kristy said she got receipts from Fred Meyer showing the purchases included 4, $500 Visa gift cards.

There are also hotel stays and a trip to a casino. Kristine Pereira admitted to staying at the hotels and the casino in testimony for the probate case over Cathy’s estate but denied knowing who made the charges.

An attorney for the personal representative of the estate said her excuses are not believable.

“It’s just not credible that Ms. Pereira could be receiving such a great benefit after the death of Cathy Gerlett and not have any knowledge as to how those charges were actually made,” attorney Clark Rasche said in a court hearing on the case.– as first highlighted in a KATU news investigation.

Oregon Forestry second-in-command fired over ‘drama filled and volatile’ relationship with subordinate

The second highest-ranking official at the state Department of Forestry was fired last week after an investigation determined he had a sexual relationship with a subordinate for about two years, records released Monday by the the agency show.

Deputy Forester Mike Shaw had been on paid administrative leave since Aug. 6. His last day with the department was Thursday, according to his termination letter. Shaw was paid an annual salary of $192,288.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal is helping 40 fire departments across the state reduce wildfire risk.

Three-million-dollars is being distributed. Most fire departments will get around 75-thousand dollars for projects that reduce fuels for fires, including chipping debris, neighborhood cleanup days, and creating fire breaks near vulnerable communities.

A teacher in the Newberg School District is accused of giving alcohol to a student.

Newberg-Dundee Police say they investigated a tip and arrested 41-year-old Joshua Luciani for allegedly giving alcohol to a 16-year-old female student. Luciani was charged with a misdemeanor of Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor. The case was referred to the Yamhill County District Attorney.

Oregon’s Attorney General has reached settlement agreements with two manufacturers of generic drugs.

Heritage Pharmaceuticals and Apotex will pay a combined 49-million dollars for alleged price-fixing. They’re accused of violating both federal and Oregon antitrust laws. The companies will also cooperate with other investigations into 30 corporations and 25 individual executives. The settlements still need approval from other states that are involved.

Community organizations awarded grants to help prepare to deliver first-in-the-nation Medicaid benefits

Funds will support statewide efforts by community and social service organizations to connect climate devices, housing assistance and nutrition services to eligible Oregon Health Plan members.

– OHA and coordinated care organizations (CCOs) this month awarded a combined $37 million to community organizations across the state to help support the delivery of health-related social needs (HRSN) benefits to eligible Oregon Health Plan (OHP / Medicaid) members. The grants – called Community Capacity Building Funds (CCBFs) – will support health providers and organizations to develop what they need to be able to participate in the Medicaid delivery system.

Health-related social needs benefits address basic needs, such as housing and nutrition, that affect Oregonians’ health. The state launched climate benefits in March including air conditioners, air filters and other equipment to keep eligible members healthy during extreme weather events. New housing benefits will begin rolling out November 1, 2024, and nutrition benefits will be available starting in January 2025. The CCBF grants will help prepare community-based organizations to deliver these new benefits and improve health outcomes by preventing homelessness, heat-related illnesses and costly urgent care visits.

In honoring the government-to-government relationship with the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon, an additional $11.9 million of CCBF funding has been set aside for the Nine Tribes. Tribes have the opportunity to build their own HRSN programs to best serve their community members who will qualify.

HRSN services and CCBF grants are part of Oregon’s 1115 Medicaid waiver, which expands coverage and delivers over a billion dollars in new federal funding to the state. Medicaid waivers allow states the flexibility to test new ways to deliver and pay for Medicaid benefits, with approval from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). Oregon’s 1115 Medicaid waiver includes several first-in-the-nation benefits for OHP members; community-based organizations (CBOs) and partners will be integral to delivering these new services.

“One of our primary goals in delivering health-related social needs benefits, is to partner and align with existing community groups to reduce siloes in services for OHP members,” said Emma Sandoe, Oregon’s Medicaid Director. “These funds will help lend support to existing systems and weave Medicaid benefits into the community-based fabric of service providers.”

​To receive CCBFs, organizations needed to apply and plan to provide HRSN services in a way that is culturally and linguistically appropriate, responsive and trauma-informed. Funds can be used for technology, workforce development, development of business practices or outreach and education related to the provision of HRSN services. Organizations eligible for CCBF can be in the following categories: CBOs, social-services agencies, traditional health care workers, child welfare providers, HRSN network managers, government agencies or providers that focus on housing, nutrition, climate, case management, outreach and engagement.

2024 Community Capacity Building Funds overview:

• More than $37 million was awarded to 161 organizations across Oregon.
• 40% of the funds ($14.7 million) went to organizations that will provide housing benefits.
• Nearly 70% of the funding (almost $26 million) went to support workforce development.
• More than 25% of funds went to community-based organizations with no prior relationships with CCOs – helping to expand provider networks in local communities.

Additional information about CCBF is located on the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) CCBF web page, including details about each grantee. Information on the new climate and housing benefits, including eligibility requirements, can be found on the Health-Related Social Needs benefits web page.

Klamath River Reemerges After the Removal of Four Dams

The largest dam removal project in U.S. history was completed Oct. 2 on the Klamath River in Southern Oregon and Northern California.

Four dams were taken out, allowing adult salmon to swim all the way up the Klamath River from the Pacific Ocean and into more than 400 miles of newly reopened habitat.

OPB cinematographer Brandon Swanson collected video footage of the dam sites before and after the removal operation. The video above includes before and after shots of all four dams:

• Iron Gate Dam, the last of the four dams to be built and the farthest downstream near the town of Hornbrook, Calif.
• Copco 1 Dam, the tallest of the four dams at 132 feet high, built in 1918 near the Oregon state line
• Copco 2 Dam, a smaller, 25-foot dam built in 1925 next to Copco 1
• J.C. Boyle Dam in Southern Oregon, named after engineer John C. Boyle, who designed the Klamath River dams for the California Oregon Power Co.

The video also includes before-and-after shots of a site along Iron Gate reservoir, where an algae bloom had turned the stagnant lake green in 2022, and a site along Northern California’s Copco Lake reservoir, where a community of about 100 people lives. After the dam was removed, the lake disappeared, and the Klamath River reemerged.

Last week, adult fall Chinook salmon made it all the way to Oregon’s stretch of the Klamath Basin for the first time in more than a century — swimming more than 200 miles from the ocean. Salmon were also seen spawning in a tributary above the former Iron Gate Dam site for the first time in more than 60 years.

In 2022, Federal regulators approved the $500 million dam removal operation. The smallest dam, Copco 2, was removed last year. In January of this year, Copco 1, J.C. Boyle and Iron Gate dams were breached and the reservoirs behind them were drained.

Work will continue for several years to replant and restore 2,200 acres of land that were previously underwater in the dam reservoirs. https://www.opb.org/article/2024/10/22/klamath-dam-removal-river-southern-oregon-northern-california-salmon/#:~:text=The%20largest%20dam%20removal%20project,miles%20of%20newly%20reopened%20habitat.

Merkley, Wyden Announce $46 Million to Boost the Klamath Basin

Federal funding will help restore the Klamath River’s habitat following historic dam removal and further protect endangered C’waam, Koptu, and salmon

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is investing a total of$46,191,133in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to boost ecosystem restoration and enhance water quality and reliability through 24 projects throughout the Klamath Basin—12 of which are taking place in Oregon.

This latest federal funding wave from the landmark law will largely fuel the Klamath River’s recovery and habitat restoration efforts following the removal of the four lower Klamath Dams in 2024—the largest dam removal effort in U.S. history.

“A key to restoring the Klamath Basin is major federal investments that will support collaborative ecosystem restoration and water improvement efforts. This funding will continue ongoing efforts I helped energize alongside the Klamath Tribes and other stakeholders to save the C’waam and Koptu, and restore the aquatic habitat and ecosystems of the Klamath River following the historic removal of the four lower Klamath Dams,” said Merkley, who visited Northern California earlier in October to tour a former dam site and celebrate removal alongside Tribes and other key partners. “Since the dams came out, we’ve seen the salmon returning home for the first time in generations. This federal investment champions projects that help ensure the C’waam, Koptu, and salmon all have an ecosystem to thrive in, while also prioritizing efforts that help this unique region’s water go farther for the Tribes, farmers, fish, and vital ecosystems that rely on it.”

“Restoration of the Klamath Basin requires significant resources just like these to catalyze the work that’s needed locally to build a stronger ecosystem and improve water quality,” Wyden said. “This fresh federal investment in the region and the big gains it will generate for jobs, recreation, and habitat will work to ensure the area’s farmers, Tribes and communities can grow and thrive for generations to come.”

As Chairman of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, Merkley secured a historic $162 million over five years through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law specifically dedicated to restoring ecosystems and enhancing drought resiliency work in the Klamath Basin. Today’s $46 million funding announcement from the U.S. Department of the Interior’s USFWS marks the third year of investments from this landmark law, as it follows $26 million provided in 2022 and $15 million in 2023. Merkley also convened the “Sucker Summit ” in 2018, which brought people from across the Basin together and helped lay the groundwork for these significant investments to protect the C’waam and the Koptu.

In February of this year, Merkley and Wyden announced $72 million in new federal funding for critical ecosystem restoration projects and agricultural infrastructure modernization in the Basin, as well as a historic agreement with the Klamath Tribes, Yurok Tribe, Karuk Tribe, and Klamath Water Users Association (KWUA). This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) cemented their commitment to working together to drive long-term solutions to the Basin’s water challenges. That includes collective efforts to restore the region’s ecosystem and improve water supply and reliability for the Klamath Project.  READ MORE: https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-46-million-to-boost-the-klamath-basin

Governor Kotek wants the Biden administration to designate the Owyhee Canyonlands in southeastern Oregon a national monument if Congress won’t vote to protect it

Following nearly five years of negotiations and three attempts by Oregon’s U.S. senators to get federal protection for southeast Oregon’s Owyhee Canyonlands, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek is throwing her hat into the fight.

Kotek on Aug. 5 wrote to President Joe Biden, asking that he designate a large share of the 2.5 million-acre canyonlands and a stretch of the Owyhee River, often called “Oregon’s Grand Canyon,” a national monument under the Antiquities Act of 1906 should Congress not pass legislation this year to protect it. For years, Congress has failed to vote on proposals to protect the canyonlands under the National Wilderness Preservation System and the National Wild and Scenic River System. The Antiquities Act allows the president to designate areas national monuments if they hold cultural, natural or historical significance.

“The Antiquities Act has a long history of being used to protect America’s most cherished landscapes, from the Grand Canyon to the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument here in Oregon,” Kotek wrote. “Permanent safeguards will protect the Owyhee Canyonlands against the growing threats of development, extraction and other detrimental activities and, most importantly, will pay endless dividends for generations to come.”

The canyonlands have significant health, economic and cultural value to the Northern Paiute, Bannock and Shoshone tribes. They are a source of tourism dollars in Malheur County and are home to threatened sage grouse, as well as bighorn sheep, elk and deer. The animals and their habitats face growing risks from wildfire due to invasive grasses and juniper. Fish species in the Owyhee River face challenges from poorly preserved riparian areas and cattle grazing.

Oregon’s U.S. Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, both Democrats, first proposed the bill called the Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act in 2019, following requests from ranchers in the area for intervention amid prolonged debate among ranchers, conservationists, tribes, hunting and fishing groups and government officials over how to preserve parts of the canyonlands.

The first proposal failed to make it out of the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. A second attempt in 2022 also failed to advance, and the latest attempt in July 2023 remains in the committee. This iteration of the bill calls for protection of 1.1 million acres of the canyonlands and a 15-mile stretch of the Owyhee River, the same areas Kotek wants protected. The bill, signed by southeast Oregon ranchers, conservationists, tribal leaders and small business owners in the area, also proposes to transfer 30,000 acres of federal and private land into a trust overseen by the Burns Paiute Tribe.

“By securing this designation, you will collectively send a powerful message that people from different perspectives and ideological persuasions can still come together to accomplish great feats,” Kotek wrote to Biden.

Whooping Cough (Pertussis) cases confirmed in Douglas County

Local public health officials announced today that there are currently three pediatric cases of Pertussis, including two infants, and seven additional presumptive cases of Pertussis (Whooping Cough) as of November 1^st, 2024. Schools and parents have been alerted and currently include Roseburg High School, South Umpqua High School and JoLane Middle School. Health care providers have been notified on what to watch for, testing and treatment guidelines and current Oregon Health Authority Guidelines for Pertussis (Whooping Cough). The Epidemiology team at DPHN is currently working on contact tracing and notifying potential exposures.

As a pertussis outbreak (also known as whooping cough) continues to spread in neighboring counties, Douglas County public health officials are urging everyone to make sure their pertussis vaccinations are up-to-date.

Pertussis is a serious and highly contagious infection caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis and is one of the most commonly occurring vaccine-preventable diseases in the United States. Initial symptoms in older children and adults are similar to those of a cold, and commonly include a runny nose, sneezing and a severe cough.

Over the course of a few days, the cough will usually worsen and can be followed by spasms and occasionally vomiting. Infants commonly demonstrate more severe symptoms, which may include: Gagging, gasping, and a whooping sound when coughing.

The duration of the infection can be up to two weeks with a debilitating cough for up to 90 days. Individuals exhibiting these symptoms are encouraged to refrain from contact with children, stay home from work or school for up to 21 days and seek medical attention. If a doctor prescribes antibiotics, this exclusion from work and school can be reduced to as little as 5 days.

Pertussis is particularly dangerous for children younger than 1 year of age. Most deaths occur in unvaccinated children or in children too young to be vaccinated who contract the disease from a family member. These family members may be unvaccinated or unaware that immunity from initial childhood vaccinations wanes after 5-10 years and thus have not received their booster.

As a result, it is critical that infants begin the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) immunization series on schedule and all family members receive the Tdap booster (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis). The first three shots for infants are given at 2, 4, and 6 months of age. The fourth shot is given between 15 and 18 months of age, and a fifth shot is given before a child enters school, at 4-6 years of age. Current CDC guidelines recommend that adults should receive a dose of Tdap every ten years.  DTaP and Tdap are covered by most health insurance plans and are readily available through a number of facilities including pharmacies. Individuals interested in receiving the vaccine or booster should contact their preferred health care provider.

Since the bacteria are typically spread by coughing or sneezing, it is also important that everyone practices proper respiratory hygiene. This includes covering your cough or sneeze, properly disposing of used tissue and frequently washing hands, even if you do not display symptoms.

For additional information on Pertussis, please visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/index.html

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pertussis1/Factsheetpert2024.pdf

DPHN Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reZqqfWyxL0&list=PLX0R6XSgJ34AKts3X7ANhOYhxOFUvtWlR

Douglas Public Health Network is a nonprofit organization and the local public health agency for Douglas County. DPHN provides communicable disease and emergency preparedness services as well as specialized programs focused on specific areas such as Opioid overdoses, health promotion, tobacco cessation, communicable disease prevention and public health modernization.

Oregon Department of Forestry launches Prescribed Fire Liability Program

Salem, Ore.— The Oregon Department of Forestry is happy to announce the launch of the Prescribed Fire Liability Program. This pilot program is intended to increase use of prescribed fire and cultural burning and support fire practitioners by providing liability coverage for enrolled burns.

Introducing periodic fire to fire-adapted landscapes and reducing forest fuels has been shown to lessen the potential for high-intensity wildfires and the large volume of smoke they produce.

While the rates of escape and loss are very low due to the careful planning and preparation required for prescribed fire and cultural burning, there is always some residual risk when working with fire. This risk, and the resulting liability for damages due to escape if uninsured, can deter some practitioners from using beneficial fire.

Governor Kotek signed House Bill 4016 in 2024 establishing the pilot Prescribed Fire Liability Program. It authorizes claims covering certain losses arising from escaped prescribed fires and cultural burns. Participation in the program is voluntary.

For your burn to have liability coverage under the program, all the following conditions must be met:

• The burn is enrolled in the program prior to burning.
• The burn is conducted or supervised by an appropriate party for the burn.
• Ensure the burn follows all applicable laws related to the burn (obtain and follow any required permits/burn plan, make required notifications for Certified Burn Manager-led burns, additional paperwork/ submissions for Power Driven Machinery, etc.).
• If the burn escapes, the fire must not be a result of willful, malicious, or negligent actions in the origin or subsequent spread.

Learn more about the program and apply at ODF’s Prescribed Fire Liability Program web page.

For more information on prescribed fire and correlating programs, visit ODF’s Prescribed Fire web page.

Oregon begins rollout of new housing benefits for eligible OHP members with health conditions

SALEM, Ore. – Starting today, Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members with specific health conditions may qualify for new, first-in-the-nation benefits to keep their current housing and access other housing services.

The housing benefits include rent assistance for up to six months, utility set-up and payments for up to six months, home modifications and upgrades for health or safety reasons (e.g., grab bars, ramp installation, pest control), and rental navigation services. Unlike other state and local prevention services, eligible members can request these benefits ahead of receiving an eviction notice.

Not all OHP members will qualify for these new benefits. To qualify, OHP members must meet specific requirements, including at least one of the following health conditions: a complex physical or behavioral health condition; a developmental or intellectual disability; difficulty with self-care and daily activities; experience of abuse or neglect; be 65 years of age or older; be under the age of six; currently pregnant or gave birth in the past 12 months; or repeated use of emergency room or crisis services.

OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi, MD, MBA, said, “Oregon’s health inequities are inextricably linked to our state’s housing crisis. Individuals and families who become homeless face a significantly higher risk of mortality and higher rates of behavioral and physical health conditions – even as they report poorer access to care. These Medicaid benefits can help stop that cycle and, in a model for the rest of the country, make it possible for Oregonians to maintain their current housing, connect with providers and access additional resources that support their well-being.”

Oregon received permission from the federal government to test whether and how addressing health-related social needs improves health outcomes. While other states have launched similar benefits, Oregon is the first in the nation to roll out rent assistance as a statewide Medicaid benefit for eligible OHP members.

“Housing plays a pivotal role in our physical and mental wellbeing. And yet, so many of our neighbors are living paycheck to paycheck, where an unexpected issue can lead to a loss of income and loss of a home,” said Emma Sandoe, Medicaid Director at Oregon Health Authority. “These benefits are one more tool to keep Oregonians housed during short-term disruptions and prevent negative health outcomes of homelessness.”

Of renters across Oregon, 22% have extremely low income, with $30,560 being the average income limit for a four-person household. Adults living with housing insecurity, including threat of eviction, are 19% more likely to lack access to a primary care provider and 35% more likely to postpone preventative health care even if they have chronic health conditions. Evictions and loss of housing can lead to negative health outcomes including:

• Increasing an individual’s risk for physical and mental health conditions
• Making an individual’s existing health condition worse
• Creating barriers to accessing medical care, medications and food

“Housing is a critical driver of health outcomes, significantly impacting social mobility and economic opportunity,” said Oregon Housing and Community Services Executive Director, Andrea Bell. “Stable housing serves as a catalyst for expanding access to preventive care, while reducing the monumental costs associated with emergency care. This is what transformative, integrated care looks like.”

Starting this month, housing providers are contracted to begin connecting with eligible members and delivering these new benefits across the state. Housing benefit applications may take up to two weeks to be reviewed. If approved, additional time may be needed to provide the benefit. These turnaround timeframes will depend on the capacities of individual CCOs and housing service providers as well as the volume of housing applications received. OHA is working closely with CCOs to continue to expand the network over the next year.

Fostering healthy families and environments is one of the five pillars to achieving OHA’s strategic goal of eliminating health inequities in Oregon by 2030. The housing benefits are one of several new health-related social needs benefits Oregon is piloting to meet this goal. In March, the state launched climate benefits including air conditioners, air filters and other equipment to keep eligible members healthy amid extreme weather events. Nutrition benefits will be available for eligible OHP members starting in January 2025.

OHP members interested in receiving housing benefits can work with their health plan (coordinated care organization or Open Card), health care provider or a local OHP community partner to see if they qualify and apply.

OHP members should contact their coordinated care organization (CCO) to learn more. OHP Open Card members can call 1-888-834-4304 or email ORHRSN@acentra.com. If an OHP member is not sure which plan or CCO they are in, they can call the OHA Client Services Unit at 1-800-273-0557 or email Ask.OHP@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

For OHP members who are currently unhoused, resources may be available through 211.

For more information about these benefits, visit the OHP housing benefits web page.

Oregon Health Authority to launch new rental assistance program in November

Oregon will be the first in the nation to offer a statewide rental assistance program through Medicaid

The Oregon Health Authority is launching a new rental assistance program through its Medicaid plan that serves low-income Oregonians when medical crises impact their ability to pay rent.

The health authority’s plans are intended to keep people housed who need a short-term bridge to make ends meet and pay rent. Its goal is to help people maintain their health and their housing, which can lead to better long-term outcomes. People who face homelessness or the threat of eviction are 35% more likely to delay preventative health care, according to one national study.

To find out more about the housing program and eligibility, go here.

The program, which starts in November, will make Oregon the first state in the nation to offer a statewide rental assistance program through Medicaid. The Oregon Health Plan, the state’s Medicaid program, provides more than 1.4 million Oregonians with health care, dental care and behavioral health care services.

“It really is focusing on trying to keep those most at risk still housed, hopefully leading to them being able to have some short-term help,” said Dave Baden, the authority’s deputy director for policy and programs, in a recent press call with reporters.

The Oregon Health Authority is providing the program through its Medicaid waiver, which is a five-year plan that the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid approved. States can receive waivers as a tool to try new programs or approaches to Medicaid. Oregon’s current Medicaid waiver is in effect from Oct. 1, 2022, through Sept. 30, 2027.

During this period, Oregon has nearly $1 billion available for the rental assistance programs and other new programs within the Medicaid plan for air conditioners, air filters and food benefits. Most of the money — $904 million — is federal funding, with a state match of $71 million.

The program can cover rental and utility costs for up to six months, including past-due amounts. People also can receive medically necessary home improvements, including wheelchair ramps, pest control and heavy-duty cleaning.

The program covers rental assistance, but not new housing placements for people who are homeless.

“The goal of the housing benefit is really around keeping people housed and preventing houselessness,” said Steph Jarem, the authority’s waiver policy director.

Not everyone on Medicaid is eligible. To qualify, an Oregonian enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan would need to have a qualifying risk factor, such as complex medical condition, behavioral health condition, pregnancy or repeated emergency department trips.

The program can cover people who fall behind on rent because of a chronic condition or an injury that prevents them from working.

They also would need an income that is 30% or less than the median income of their region. For a family of four in Portland or Hillsboro, the cutoff is $35,400.

State officials estimate 22% of Oregon’s 618,278 households that rent have incomes that fall below the threshold and are potentially eligible.

In one example, a person who lives alone in Hood River and makes $18,000 a year could get help for missing work with a broken leg while also living with chronic heart disease.

The authority reached the eligibility determinations after negotiations with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (SOURCE)

Razor Clam Harvest Closure Cascade Head to California Border

– Razor clam harvesting is now closed from Cascade Head to the California border the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife announced. Recent razor clam samples indicate levels of domoic acid (a marine biotoxin) are above the safety threshold.

People should always call the Shellfish Safety Hotline at 1-800-448-2474 before heading out to harvest any shellfish or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Biotoxin Closures Webpage.

Current harvest closures and openings:

Razor clams:

OPEN from the WA border to Cascade Head.

CLOSED from Cascade Head to the CA border.

Mussels:

OPEN coastwide.

Bay clams:

OPEN coastwide.

Crabs:

OPEN coastwide.

NOTE: sport crabbing in the ocean off the Oregon coast is closed through Nov. 30.

ODA will continue testing for shellfish toxins at least twice per month, as tides and weather permit. Reopening an area closed for biotoxins requires two consecutive tests with results below the closure limit.

For more information call ODA’s shellfish biotoxin hotline at (800) 448-2474, the ODA Food Safety Program at 503- 986-4720, or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Biotoxin Closures Webpage.

Contact ODFW for recreational license requirements, permits, rules, and limits. https://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2024/10_Oct/102524.asp

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs to Host Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at Oregon State Capitol Park

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will honor all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces during its Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11, in view of the Oregon State Capitol Building.

This event will feature remarks by dignitaries and special guests along with ceremonial elements including a color guard, singing of the national anthem, a wreath laying and the playing of “Taps.”

The celebration will honor Oregon veterans of all eras and will be hosted at the Oregon State Capitol State Park located on Court Street Northeast in Salem — directly in front of the main entrance of the Oregon State Capitol Building.

The event is open to the public and uncovered seating will be provided for attendees. Accessible pathways and seating areas for those needing accommodations will also be provided. Attendees are reminded to plan accordingly for Oregon weather.

For those unable to attend, the event will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/odvavet. If you have any questions about this event, please contact ODVA at (800) 692-9666 or visit www.oregon.gov/odva.

Groundbreaking Dedication Event for Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Oregon State Capitol- Friday, November 22, 2024 | 2:00 p.m.

The Oregon State Capitol will be the site of the highly anticipated dedication ceremony for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Friday, November 22, at 2:00 p.m. This momentous event will be the formal dedication of Phase 1 of the memorial, which honors the service and sacrifice of Oregon’s Vietnam veterans. The public ceremony will occur at Salem’s Willson Park memorial site on the Capitol grounds, at the corner of State and Cottage Street, with a reception to follow at the nearby Withnell Family YMCA.

The memorial pays tribute to 710 Oregonians who lost their lives in the Vietnam War, along with the more than 180,000 Oregonians who served in Vietnam and around the world from 1955-1975. The design features 46 black granite columns engraved with the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It creates a reflective space for veterans, families, and the public to honor their memory.

The event will include comments from local veterans, state officials, and Vietnam War Memorial Fund members, who have been instrumental in making this project a reality. The event is hosted by the Oregon Vietnam War Memorial Fund and is supported by a grant of Transient Occupancy Tax from the City of Salem.

The Importance of the Memorial – The Vietnam War remains one of the most challenging and divisive periods in American history. Veterans returning from the conflict were often met with indifference or hostility, making this memorial an overdue recognition of their service. The memorial offers a space for healing and remembrance, honoring both the sacrifices of the fallen and the resilience of those who served. Steve Bates, President and co-founder of the Vietnam War Memorial Fund (VWMF), emphasized the emotional impact of this project. “This is about giving our veterans a place of rest and, for all of us, a place to heal,” Bates said. The memorial will not only commemorate the service of Vietnam veterans but also serve as a reminder of the war’s lasting impact on the state and its people.

Beyond its role as a place of remembrance, the memorial will also serve as an educational resource when Phase 2 is completed. Phase 2, the Exhibit Phase, aims to help future generations understand the human cost of war and the bravery of those who fought.

For more information, see a virtual tour or donate, visit ocvvm.com.

About the VWMF: Vietnam War Memorial Fund’s website at www.ocvvm.com. The Vietnam War Memorial Fund is a recognized 501(c)3 organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent of applicable tax law. You can donate by sending a check to the Vietnam War Memorial Fund – P O Box 1448 – Boring, Oregon 97009 or by credit card at www.ocvvm.com.

Oregon Aging and People with Disabilities offers free help for Medicare Open Enrollment

(Salem) — Medicare Open Enrollment for the 2025 plan year begins Oct. 15 and remains open through Dec. 7, 2024. Medicare beneficiaries seeking to compare or change their existing Medicare plan can receive free help from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).

During the Medicare Open Enrollment period, people with Medicare can make changes to their health plan or prescription drug plan, pick a Medicare Advantage plan or choose Original Medicare. The ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities’ (APD) Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is available to help Oregonians understand their Medicare options and benefits, provide enrollment guidance and help people detect and avoid Medicare scams. Additionally, there are some key changes coming to Medicare in 2025 that APD’s SHIBA program counselors can assist people in understanding including:

• The new Manufacturer Discount Program which addresses the coverage gap, also known as the “donut hole;”
• The lower maximum to pay for covered drugs. The maximum amount for 2025 will be $2,000;
• Coverage for weight loss drugs when doctors prescribe them for people who meet certain conditions;
• Expanded coverage for family caregiver services through the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) model; and
• Increased access to mental health services by allowing more providers to bill Medicare for services.

“Our APD SHIBA team is devoted to helping people prepare for open enrollment and understand changes,” said Jane-ellen Weidanz, who oversees SHIBA as APD Deputy Director of Policy.

Oregonians who need help navigating Medicare open enrollment are encouraged to call SHIBA at 800-722-4134 (toll-free) or learn more by visiting the SHIBA website at SHIBA.Oregon.gov. The 2025 Oregon Guide to Medicare Insurance Plans will be available on the SHIBA website in the coming days and will be translated to multiple languages.

SHIBA certified counselors can also help people report scams to Medicare and educate people on how to avoid Medicare scams or fraud. According to the Senior Medicare Patrol, common scams include promising free durable medical equipment, such as knee braces and catheters, or offers of free genetic testing. The ultimate goal for the scammer is to get the beneficiary’s Medicare number to commit Medicare billing fraud. “SHIBA counselors are committed to ensuring Oregonians have the information they need to avoid becoming victims of fraud and report scams or suspected Medicare fraud,” said APD Director Dr. Nakeshia Knight-Coyle.

Help from SHIBA is available over the phone and through virtual and in-person appointments. Because high call volume during Open Enrollment may result in longer than usual wait times, Oregonians are also encouraged to access free resources on the SHIBA website such as Medicare frequently asked questions, an agent locator tool, a list of free virtual and in-person Medicare presentations and videos to help people understand their Medicare options. People who need Medicare help in a language other than English, including sign language, can call 833-685-0841 or send an email to odhs.languageaccess@odhsoha.oregon.gov; after placing a request, a translator will reach out in the requestor’s preferred language to provide assistance in communicating with SHIBA.

About the Oregon Department of Human Services – The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

About the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program – The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is part of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. It is a statewide network of certified counselors volunteering in their community to help all Oregonians make educated Medicare decisions. SHIBA offers free, objective, confidential and local one-on-one health insurance counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1109674113319848