Rogue Valley News, Monday 11/18 – Nurses at Providence Medford to Hold Solidarity Rally Today, Medford Public Meeting On Housing & 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

Monday,  November 18, 2024

Rogue Valley Weather

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Get Prepared for Winter Weather

A winter storm hit Southern Oregon last week, bringing snow, ice, rain and quickly changing road conditions. Siskiyou Summit saw its first major snowfall of the season, catching many drivers off guard.

In response, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding drivers of the importance of preparing for winter weather. The fast-moving storm surprised a lot of drivers This is a reminder that winter weather can change quickly, and road conditions can go from clear to hazardous in a matter of minutes.

This graphic shows snow covered roadways from traffic camera images at US-26, US-20, SR-35, and SR-58. If you are traveling over the Cascade passes be prepared for snow-covered roads, reduced visibilities,  and potential ice.

ODOT urges drivers to follow several key tips to stay safe:

  • Turn on your windshield wipers and headlights
  • Slow down and avoid cruise control
  •  Increase your stopping distance and steer clear of standing water
  • Carry chains and check road conditions before traveling
    using TripCheck.com or by calling 511.
  • Pack an emergency kit with a flashlight, phone charger, warm clothes, food, and water in case you get
    stuck.
  • Be aware of the dangers of black ice, which can be even more hazardous than snow.
  • Drivers should always be prepared for sudden weather changes—especially in higher elevations.

Multiple winter storm warnings have been issued across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana, urging people to avoid travel due to heavy snow expected in these states. In Oregon, warnings cover various counties, including portions of highways 97, 58, 230, 138, 62, 140, and 66. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Medford and Portland emphasized the potential for very difficult driving conditions and advised extreme caution if travel is necessary.

Bomb Cyclone Headed Toward the West Coast

An intense mid-latitude cyclone is expected to take aim at the West Coast of the United States early this week, ushering a strong atmospheric river into Oregon and California. This low pressure system is likely to go through bombogenesis, or “bomb out,” a term reserved for low pressure systems that intensify rapidly, typically with a pressure drop of at least 24mb in 24 hours. This definition changes based on latitude.

The storm system headed toward the West Tuesday through Thursday will have potential to more than double that pressure drop, with forecast models showing a drop of 50-60mb in less than a day, starting at over 1000 mb Monday night, possibly dropping below 950 mb by Tuesday night. This intense storm system is expected to bring major impacts to areas of the Northwest and northern California with heavy rain, strong winds, and big swells.

As the low pressure system develops, it will tap into a stream of sub-tropical moisture, creating what’s known as an atmospheric river. These systems can create extreme precipitation and gusty winds. Rainfall is expected to be very heavy from Tuesday through Thursday, with rainfall totals possibly surpassing a foot or more in Southern Oregon and Northern California. Flooding in these areas is likely, including river flooding and flash flooding. (SOURCE)

Nurses at Providence Medford to Hold Solidarity Rally Today 

Oregon Nurses Assn. 

ONA logo 2024

Despite ten months of negotiations, nurses who went on strike in June are still working with no contract

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WHAT: Before heading into another mediation session on Tuesday, Nov. 19, frontline nurses who work at Providence Medford will host a solidarity rally to remind the community that they are still working without a contract.

Nurses are concerned about patient care at Providence Medford and are asking Providence executives to commit to competitive pay and benefits, so they recruit and retain more nurses. Some have reported that just in the last month, Providence Medford has lost about a dozen nurses to other jobs. This is unsustainable and could lead to disastrous outcomes for people in Medford.

The nurses at Providence Medford are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). ONA represents almost 5,000 frontline nurses working in nine Providence Health System facilities from Portland to Medford. Nurses are standing together to raise standards for nurses, patients and communities within Providence–Oregon’s largest health care system and one of the state’s largest corporations.

WHEN: November 18, 2024
Rally from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Speakers: 4 p.m.
Times are approximate

WHERE: Providence Medford Medical Center, 1111 Crater Lake Ave., Medford

WHO: ONA frontline nurses and community supporters. A short program will feature:

  • State Rep. Pam Marsh, Dist. 5
  • ONA President Tamie Cline, RN
  • Bargaining team nurses from Providence Medford

WHY: Since bargaining began in January of 2024, nurses have made progress on lower-priority bargaining topics, but they are frustrated with the disappointing counterproposals Providence has offered for their top issues of safe staffing and competitive pay and benefits. They have made every effort to meet Providence in a place that everyone can agree on and have already made concessions.

ONA nurses are rallying a day before another round of negotiations to show management that they are united and demanding a fair contract. The focus is on recruitment, retention and respect. The turnover at Providence Medford is high and if a competitive offer is not supplied nurses will continue to leave the facility for hospitals with better pay and benefits.

Nurses at Providence St. Vincent, Providence Newberg, Providence Willamette Falls, and Providence Milwaukie along with hospitalists from Providence St. Vincent and nurses and providers at Providence Women’s Clinic have already authorized strikes. Nurses at Providence Hood River and Providence Portland are in the midst of strike votes and Providence Seaside RNs will open a strike vote later this month.

Rain or shine, the community is encouraged to attend the rally to show support for the caregivers they rely on.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of 20,000 nurses, and health care professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses, and health care professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all health care professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

 

 

Medford Public Meeting On Housing

In an effort to address Medford’s rent burden, high cost of living, and the experience of low income residents, the City Of Medford is hosting a discussion panel on Tuesday, November 19th.

Partnering with local organizations including the Fair Housing Council and the Jackson County Housing Authority, the city has also invited ACCESS, the Jackson County community action agency to present details of the rental assistance programs it has available.

Melanie Doshier, of ACCESS Support Services indicated that the organization supports low income residents in Jackson County who are struggling, and wants to help people experiencing instability in their housing.

The Medford public meeting on housing takes place in the Prescott Room at 219 S. Ivy Street on Tuesday, November 19, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. or can be accessed via Zoom for community members who are unable to attend in person.

 

 

🎨 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀!🎨

Art Contest Web.png

Enter the Medford City Council’s art contest for a chance to win a $𝟭,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 and have your artwork displayed at City Hall! 🏆✨
Art can be any medium (photo, sketch, paint, etc.) but must be submitted digitally. The theme is ‘community’ – whether it’s a special location, your family or friends, an event, etc., we want to see what ‘community’ means to you!
The contest closes on December 8, so don’t wait to get started!

 

Grants Pass “Buy-A-Brick” Plaques On Sale For Owl Parking Plaza

In 2025, the Owl Parking Lot at 5th and H Streets will undergo a major reconstruction and be converted to a joint parking lot and public plaza for community events. The City of Grants Pass is launching the “Buy-a-Brick” campaign before construction begins.
Buy a brick campaign, Grants Pass, Oregon
For just $250, people wishing to add their personal touch to the Owl Plaza can purchase a brick with up to three lines of text engraved on a brass plaque and embedded in the brick. The bricks will form part of the patio base of the Owl Plaza near the 5th and H Street sidewalks. Currently, approximately 470 bricks are expected to be available for purchase. Details available here: https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3468
Check out these rock stars! We partnered with Rogue Valley Adventist Academy for a community service project. 31 high school students joined 4 of our CSO’s and an officer from our Livability Team to clean up graffiti along the greenway. In 1 hour, we were able to clean up the portion at the 12th street bridge and Hawthorne Park!   Great work, students! 👏
It’s getting cold outside! 🌧 If you plan on using a space heater to stay warm, please remember these safety tips!
✅ Never leave a space heater running unattended. If you are going to sleep or leaving the room, turn it off – it saves electricity too!
✅ Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. NEVER use an extension cord, as these can overheat and cause a fire hazard.
✅ Keep your space heater at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn (like paper, clothing, or rugs).
✅ Use space heaters that have the seal of a qualified testing laboratory and have an automatic shut-off feature.

Crater Lake Gets Snow – North Entrance Road and Rim Drive are CLOSED for the season.

Crater Lake got its first big snowstorm of the year Wednesday. If you were planning a late fall trip to Oregon’s
Crater Lake National Park today, you’re out of luck. All roads at the park were closed Thursday morning after a winter
storm dumped snow on the park and “equipment challenges” meant employees couldn’t immediately clear them.

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The North Entrance Road and East & West Rim Drives are now closed for the season a few The roads will not open again until mid to late June or July 2025. All other roads are open.

According to a post on the park’s website, all park roads were temporarily closed to travel “while the snowplow
operators work to repair equipment and clear the roads.” he park had gotten just under 15 inches of snow in about 24 hours, according to Tim Daldrup, a meterologist with the National Weather Service in Medford.

The snow was expected to continue, though substantially lighter, for the next several days. But, said Dalrup, another storm is predicted late Sunday into Monday that could bring a foot or more of new snow to the area. Crater Lake National Park did not respond to say when they anticipated re-opening park roads. In general, the park is open all year, and snow is common. https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/conditions.htm

 

 

Grants Pass 2024 Water Report Photo Contest

2024 Water Report Photo Contest “Reimagine Our Water Future.”–The City of Grants Pass invites you to enter our 2024 Water Quality Report photo contest. Amateur and professional photographers are encouraged to enter.May be an image of text
Winning photos will be featured in the 2024 Water Quality Report.Categories: K-12; Amateur; Professional Prizes
Prizes: First place winner will receive $200; Second place winner will receive $100; Winning photos will be featured in the City of Grants Pass 2024 Water Quality Report
Follow this link for details:  https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/1434

 

 

Lithia Park’s Butler-Perozzi Fountain Campaign Finishes

All Funds Raised for the Restoration Project

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With tremendous support from the local community, visitors to Ashland, and statewide foundations and grantors, the Ashland Parks Foundation has reached its ambitious fundraising goal to restore, repair and upgrade the Butler-Perozzi Fountain in Lithia Park.

The fountain, purchased by two Ashland civic leaders at the 1915 Pan-American World Exposition in San Francisco, had fallen into disrepair over the years. A campaign to restore the fountain and repair and upgrade the site began July 4, 2023, 107 years after it was dedicated to the City of Ashland.

“We received contributions as little as $10 and as much as $200,000” said Mike Gardiner, President of the foundation, which led the effort. “ The fountain is a beloved piece of Ashland’s history and an important piece of public art in the town. We look forward to returning it to its former glory.”

Now that the campaign reached its $800,000 goal, which includes a $200,000 maintenance fund, the foundation is working with Ashland Parks and Recreation staff to create a bid package for the project, select a qualified contractor, and begin the restoration and repair work in 2025.

The foundation is still accepting donations for the long-term maintenance fund to ensure that the fountain and site remain in good condition for years to come. To learn more visit:  https://ashlandparksfoundation.org/butler-perozzi-fountain/

 

A Medford man facing a court arraignment for murder and attempted murder in Central Point is extending his arraignment to next month.

Central Point Police Department (CPPD) said its officers found a dead 42-year-old victim at the 300 block of South 4th Street around 7:30 a.m. Friday, reportedly a gunshot victim.  It said a few minutes later CPPD officers learned of a second shooting in the 500 block of Bush Street, approximately four blocks from the 4th Street scene, where a female victim was located in a vehicle on Bush Street, and she was taken to Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.

CPPD said officers from the Medford Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police located the lone male shooting suspect around 8 a.m. on foot in the 1000 block of North 5th Street in Central Point, where he was taken into custody.

45-year-old William Carl Frombach, Jr., had an arraignment scheduled today in Jackson County Circuit Court for one felony criminal count each of murder, attempt to commit any degree of murder or aggravated murder, assault, animal abuse and felon in possession of a firearm charges.

Jackson County District Attorney’s information accuses Frombach, Jr., of killing Devery Allen Bynam and attempting to kill Elizabeth Hadley last Friday, November 8, 2024.

In court this afternoon, the Court assigned a public defender to Frombach, Jr.’s case, and the public defender’s office requested a continuance of today’s hearing to December 12, 2024, before the murder suspect could enter his plea to the charges.

The Court today took no pleas, and Judge Paul Moser also set no bail for Frombach, Jr., keeping him in jail without bond.

 

 

Medford’s Parks & Recreation department is seeking bids for concession operations at Lithia & Driveway Fields in south Medford.

The City of Medford seeks proposals for a competitive bid process to operate concession services at Lithia & Driveway Fields (L & D Fields)! Go to the link below to view information about the bid process.

Since opening in May 2008, the facility has hosted over 70,000 games and generated over $170 million in economic impact. Approximately 4,500 games and tournaments are played yearly at Fields 1-9 alone. Almost a quarter million people visit the park annually, representing an excellent built-in clientele for concession services!   Here’s More Info:  https://www.medfordoregon.gov/…/lithia-driveway-fields…

 

Starting November 12th, Shelter Friends will be covering all dog adoption fees in hopes of getting our pups Home for the Holidays.
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That’s right – dog adoptions are FREE starting Tuesday until further notice. Please help share the word so we can clear some kennels!

Clayfolk Pottery Show & Sale

Clayfolk pottery show and sale – free admission!
November 22, 23, 24, 2024
Friday 10 am -7 pm,
Saturday 10 am – 7 pm,
Sunday 10 am – 3 pm
Medford Armory
1701 S Pacific Hwy,
Medford, Oregon

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Jackson County Public Health Issues Overdose Alert for Fentanyl

Jackson County, Oregon - Official Government Website

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.

 

 

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

The Oregon State Marine Board recently opened rulemaking for the Upper Rogue River in Jackson County and seeks written public comments on the proposed rule language.

The agency filed a Notice of Rulemaking with the Oregon Secretary of State, being published in the November 1st Oregon Bulletin to establish a new rule for the Upper Rogue River:

Oregon Administrative Rule 250-020-0151, Boat Operations in Jackson County

The rule preserves traditional boating uses along the Upper Rogue River. The horsepower restrictions will limit the size and speeds at which boats may operate on sections of the river. This will prevent conflicts between motorized and nonmotorized boaters and allow other river users to access sections of the river without interference from high-speed boats.

The agency will also host a public hearing on December 4, in Medford at the Rogue Community College. More information will be forthcoming in advance of the hearing.

The Board will meet on January 23, 2025, and may make a motion to adopt, amend, or take other action on the proposed rulemaking.

Written comments will be accepted until December 20, by 12:55 pm. Comments can be submitted by email to .rulemaking@boat.oregon.gov“>osmb.rulemaking@boat.oregon.gov  or by U.S. Mail to Jennifer Cooper, Administrative Rules Coordinator, Oregon State Marine Board, 435 Commercial Street NE, Salem, OR 97301. Testimony will not be accepted by telephone.

To view the public hearing notice and proposed rule language, visit https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/info/Pages/Rulemaking-and-Public-Notices.aspx.

 

UPDATE —-  Woman Missing in Prospect Area

Sheriff’s Deputies, Search & Rescue Attempting to Locate Missing Woman Last Seen in Prospect Area–

UPDATE: 11-13-24 April has been located safe and sound in Washington State. She is no longer listed as a missing person.

 

 

Sheriff’s Office issues advisory about motorhome and possible link to missing Prospect woman Deenah Padgett

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is asking  for help identifying the owner a motorhome.  It could be associated with a missing person from the Prospect area.JCSO motorhome pic, missing Prospect woman Deenah Padgett, 9.27.24.jpg

JCSO says 68-year-old Deenah Padgett has been missing since August 30 from Prospect, described as a white woman, 4’ 8” tall, weighing approximately 95 pounds with brownish red/greying hair.

JCSO issued an advisory this weekend asking anyone with information about the owner of the pictured motor home or Padgett’s whereabouts to call Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatch non-emergency phone number at 541-776-7206.

Sheriff's Office issues advisory about motorhome, missing Prospect woman | Local | kdrv.com

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

Forest Service officials are seeking information about the person or group that have been placing homemade spike strips and other dangerous traps across roads and trails in remote southwest Oregon.

The federal agency said that in addition to spike strips, meant to puncture tires, there have also been wires across roads and trails reported in the Taylor Creek and Shan Creek areas of Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.

“Reports have stated that the boards that hold the spikes have been covered with leaves, so it may be difficult to see them,” a Facebook post from the national forest said on Monday.

Some on social media indicated the issue has been an ongoing problem.

The traps have been reported by “hunting and mining interests,” the post said. However, the Taylor Creek area, located west of Grants Pass, has other recreation including hiking, mountain biking and camping.

The post asked anyone that saw anything taking place to contact the Grants Pass Interagency Office at 541-471-6500 or the Wild Rivers Ranger District at 541-592-4000.

 

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

Great news – you might still qualify for extra support through HARP.
OHCS HARP Website → bit.ly/45bHjzu
You can schedule an appointment directly with our Intake Specialists through our website ➡ https://firebrandcollective.org/harp/
¿Recibiste ayuda de FEMA, del seguro o de otros organismos tras los Incendios de Almeda y South Obenchain 2020? Excelentes noticias: es posible que de todos modos reúnas los requisitos para recibir ayuda adicional a través de la asistencia de HARP.
Visita la página de HARP en nuestro sitio web para pedir cita hoy mismo.

 

Rogue Valley Humane Society 

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.

Hearts with a Mission, a program to help local seniors who need assistance, is seeking volunteers.

David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active

Community still looking for answers in violent 2011 murder of David Grubbs on Ashland, Oregon bike path 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.

This case remains important to David’s family, the community, and the Ashland Police Department. As detectives continue to pursue these new leads, anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to the Ashland Police Department at 541-488-2211. The reward for information leading to an arrest on this case remains at over $21,000.

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

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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

 

Organic Carrots E. coli Outbreak Turns Fatal

Bag of organic carrots with text saying:
“Food Safety Alert: E. coli outbreak linked to recalled Grimmway organic carrots.
Recalled items:
•Organic whole and baby bagged carrots in several sizes and brands
•Baby carrots have best if used by dates through November 12 and whole carrots were in stores through approximately October 23
•See the notice for a full list of brands, some include:
o	365
o	Good & Gather
o	Simple Truth
o	Trader Joe’s
o	Wegmans	
cdc.gov/foodborne-outbreaks.”

Federal agencies warned an E. coli outbreak turned deadly, and the related recall nationwide involves organic carrots sold in over a dozen brands including Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, GreenWise, 365, Nature’s Promise, and Bunny-Luv.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Sunday that an E. coli outbreak related to organic whole and baby carrots caused one death, there were 39 infections in 18 states, and 15 remained hospitalized.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Saturday that Grimmway Farms issued a recall. A CDC map tracking the reported cases showed most of the cases that started in September were in Washington, New York, Minnesota, Oregon, and California.

The CDC asked anyone with severe symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting to “seek health care, and tell your provider about what you ate.” According to the CDC, symptoms usually start 3 to 4 days after swallowing the bacteria and although some patients may develop kidney problems, most people recover without treatment after 5 to 7 days.

For more information about the E. coli outbreak, visit the CDC page. For more information about the recall, visit the FDA page.

Reward of up to $25,000 Offered in Ballot Box Fire Case

The FBI’s Seattle Field Office is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the person responsible setting incendiary fires at two ballot boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and one in Portland, Oregon. The FBI’s Seeking Information poster can be found here: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/ballot-box-fires

On October 8, 2024, between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m., an unknown individual placed an improvised incendiary device on a ballot drop box in Vancouver, Washington. Subsequently, on October 28, 2024, between 2:00 and 4:00 a.m., improvised incendiary devices were placed on ballot drop boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon.

A surveillance camera captured images of an early 2003 to 2004 Volvo S-60 sedan, dark in color, with dark wheels and a light-colored interior, driven by the suspect believed to responsible for these crimes. The vehicle does not have a Volvo logo on the front grill. At the time of the October 28, 2024, incidents, the vehicle also displayed a fraudulent temporary Washington license plate on the rear and no front license plate. The plate, which is not associated with a Volvo, may no longer be on the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle is described as a White male, approximately 30 to 40 years old with thinning hair. It is believed that he may have some experience with metal work and welding.

Anyone with information is asked to call your nearest FBI office, provide information online at tips.fbi.gov, or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). FBI – Oregon

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

Granite Column Install Phase 1

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.

Pertussis case count, expected to beat record, alarms health officials

Vaccinations urged as whooping cough on track to pass 910 cases in 2024

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon is expected to surpass its record of 910 pertussis cases by the end of 2024, prompting health officials to sharpen their warnings about the disease’s serious risks—especially for young babies—and their emphasis on the importance of vaccination.

As of Nov. 13, Oregon has seen a total of 827 cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, in 23 counties during 2024, according to Oregon Health Authority (OHA) data. At least one person, an older adult, has died.

In 2012, 910 pertussis cases were reported, the highest annual count since 1953.

“I’m worried, given the time of year, because people are attending indoor holiday gatherings, and those gatherings often include newborns who are too young to be vaccinated,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.

Lane County has the highest number of pertussis cases this year with 249. The other counties with the highest case counts are Multnomah with 180, Clackamas with 109, Washington with 67 and Deschutes with 59. The median age of cases is 11, with the range between 5 weeks and 89 years.

Babies too young to be fully vaccinated suffer the most from pertussis, with the highest reported incidence rate and highest likelihood of hospitalization and death. This is because babies don’t start building protection against infection until they are vaccinated at 2 months old. With the exception of 2024, Oregon pertussis deaths have been limited to infants—five have occurred since 2003.

Public health experts urge pregnant people to get the Tdap vaccine – which protects a person against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis – at 27–36 weeks’ gestation. The mothers will make antibodies and pass them to their babies across the placenta, which lowers the risk of pertussis in babies younger than 2 months by 78%–91%.

Vaccination against pertussis is routinely recommended for infants, children, adolescents and adults. Children should receive the DTaP vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis at 2, 4, 6 and 15 to 18 months, and again at age 4 to kindergarten age. All persons 10 and older, including those 65 and older, who have not had the single-dose Tdap vaccine should get it now.

Data from January through Nov. 13 show 406 (49%) of this year’s cases had zero doses of documented pertussis vaccines, and only 361 (44%) were up to date on vaccines. Among the 75 infant cases, only 11 mothers were documented to have received the recommended dose of Tdap during pregnancy.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic—when restrictions that included masking requirements and school closures were in effect—annual case tallies routinely reached triple digits, but dropped to three in 2021. But this year’s to-date 827 cases, which represents a nearly 2,500% increase from the 32 cases reported by the same period in 2023, has surprised state and local public health officials.

“It’s concerning,” said Lisandra Guzman, M.D., Lane County’s deputy public health officer and a preventive medicine physician. “Pertussis is very contagious, and that’s one of the reasons it’s so hard to control.”

Another reason, Guzman explained, is that early in an infection, pertussis can be confused with respiratory viral infections. “What you think may be a simple cold can turn out to be pertussis, because that’s how it begins—with a mild upper respiratory infection. After a couple weeks, the whooping cough begins.”

Jennifer Gibbons, N.D., a naturopathic physician in Portland, says 80% of her family medicine practice is pediatrics, and she can cite many examples of a pertussis infection’s devastating effects on children. She recalls seeing a 5-month-old baby whose mother explained the child would have difficulty breathing and cough until she vomited, then seem fine minutes later.

“I’m talking to her, and she has this perfectly healthy-looking 5-month-old baby, who then all of a sudden starts coughing, and her face turns dark red, and she’s gasping for breath while she’s trying to cough up all the secretions,” Gibbons remembers. “With pertussis, they get into these spasms of coughing that they can’t stop, and they’re often bringing up large amounts of mucus. It’s very scary.”

Cieslak, Guzman and Gibbons agree that getting children vaccinated with all doses of DTaP, and adults—particularly pregnant people—vaccinated with Tdap is the best way to protect young children, older adults, and their families and friends during the holidays, and beyond.

“I’ve had multiple families say, ‘If I had known how bad this was going to be, I would have vaccinated.’ I use that to tell other families,” Gibbons says. She also reminds families that “kids tolerate this vaccine very well. I find it to be a really useful, safe and effective vaccine.”

When an infant or pregnant person is in the household of someone with pertussis, all household members should receive a course of antibiotics effective against Bordetella pertussis—typically, a five-day course of azithromycin.

Merkley and Wyden Announce $5.4 Million for Hazardous Fuels Transportation Projects to Reduce Wildfire Risk in Oregon

Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced $5,416,405 is coming to Oregon from the Ley de Reducción de la Inflación—the largest investment in clean energy and climate action ever—for hazardous fuels transportation projects across the state. The federal funding awarded by the U.S. Forest Service will reduce the risk of wildfires by moving hazardous fuels—smaller trees, live or dead brush, tree limbs, and other natural debris—from national forests and grasslands to facilities for use in wood products and wood energy production.

“2024 was another record-breaking year for wildfires burning acres across our state, especially devastating in Eastern Oregon. We need an all-hands-on-deck approach to combat and help prevent these destructive fires,” said Merkley, who serves as chair of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the U.S. Forest Service. “This federal funding that the Forest Service is investing in our industries and communities hardest hit by mill closures is a tremendous economic boost, while reducing wildfire risk across Oregon. I will continue to tackle climate chaos with the urgency it demands, as increasingly frequent and severe wildfires threaten our homes, businesses, and way of life.”

“Taking the offensive against wildfires with federal investments just like these are a must to reduce the risk of bigger and more destructive blazes threatening lives and property throughout Oregon,” dijo Wyden. “I’m gratified the Inflation Reduction Act I worked to pass is generating these vital returns for rural parts of our state. Oregonians in those communities suffered greatly this past year from infernos burning nearly 2 million acres in our state, and these federal funds will provide opportunities for them to fight back effectively.”

The awards to Oregon are part of a $20 million effort by the Forest Service to fund 34 entities for 66 projects as part of its hazardous fuels transportation assistance program. These funds provide economic benefits to the timber industry and local communities while supporting the Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy.

The eight projects selected in Oregon are as follows:

  1. Iron Triangle ($3,169,008) – This project occurs on the Malheur National Forest and provides jobs in one of Oregon’s most economically disadvantaged areas that has been impacted by mill closures. The project includes removing approximately 240,000 tons of sawlogs and non-saw from almost 9000 acres.
  2. Forestry First ($712,577) – The projects occur with the Central Oregon Wildlife Crisis Landscape and involve the removal and utilization of 32,795 tons of biomass. This proposal would help retain crucial forest product industry in Oregon.
  3. Lomakatsi Restoration ($462,768) – Project includes the removal and innovative utilization of 7,500 green tons of biomass material within the Klamath River Basin Wildfire Crisis Landscape to create HumiSoil. Lomakatsi works with and employs many Klamath and affiliated tribal members.
  4. Cow Creek/Umpqua Tribe ($375,000) – The project partner is the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Indian Tribe and occurs on Umpqua Tribal lands adjacent to Forest Service lands in Oregon. The project includes 65,000 tons of material on 1,000 acres. Wood processing would occur at multiple sites including Umpqua Indian Forest Products.
  5. Malheur Lumber ($310,384) – This project is located on the Ochoco National Forest in a Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Project and Joint Chief’s landscape and includes the treatment of 9,732 CCF of small diameter sawlogs and biomass on 1,073 acres. This project occurs within an underserved area impacted by mill closures.
  6. Mineral Creek Logging ($248,668) – Project includes removing 4,000 tons of non-saw Timber Subject to Agreement material from 402 acres on the Rogue River-Siskiyou. This project provides benefits to underserved communities.
  7. Biomass One ($88,000) – Project is within a Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Project landscape on the Roge River-Siskiyou National Forest and Crater Lake National Park. The project involves the removal of 15,000 green tons of biomass material on approximately 950 acres.
  8. High Desert Partnership ($50,000) – This project occurs on the Malheur National Forest and helps address one of Oregon’s most economically disadvantaged communities. The project includes removing biomass from 300 acres and have been proposed by a community-led initiative that includes representation from the Burns Paiute Tribe.

Asante Rogue Regional Hospital in Medford is facing another lawsuit related to allegations that a nurse swapped patients’ fentanyl with tap water.

The latest lawsuit, (3 now) filed on behalf of multiple patients, seeks more than $22 million in damages. According to the lawsuit filings, the plaintiffs claim they suffered physical pain and emotional distress due to not receiving the prescribed medication.

The lawsuit alleges that the hospital was negligent in preventing this suffering. This marks at least the third lawsuit filed against the hospital in connection with the situation. The nurse accused of the tampering is scheduled to appear in court next month for a pre-trial hearing, though a trial date has not yet been set.

Oregon School districts, employees face $670 million increase in payments to public pension system

The increased costs for schools to the Public Employee Retirement System in the next two years will more than wipe out the governor’s proposed increases in school funding

Oregon school districts are projected to pay $670 million more to the state’s public employee pension program over the next two years, potentially wiping out all increases to school funding proposed by Gov. Tina Kotek.

The increased tab, more than 10% for some districts, follows lagging returns in investments of the Public Employees Retirement system and could affect teaching and learning in some schools.

“Next year’s sharp jumps in PERS rates will take significant money away from classrooms without making life any better for current educators,” Emielle Nischik, executive director of the Oregon School Boards Association, said in an email.  “School districts have done their best to mitigate PERS’ pain, but it is out of their control.”

The impact will vary, with most of Oregon’s 197 school districts and 17 community colleges facing an average 1.5% increase in their payroll going to PERS during the 2025-27 budget cycle, according to a PERS presentation last month.

But 22 districts are facing average increases of 10% or more in part because investment returns have been lower than expected but mainly because side investment accounts meant to help buffer PERS increases are expiring. For 72 school districts that don’t have one of these accounts, the average contribution rate for PERS will soon amount to about 27% of payroll.

Overall, school districts and colleges will pay $565 million more in the next two years compared with the 2023-25 biennium, while about 77,000 vested employees, who also pay into PERS, will pay $105 million more.

The increased costs to districts will more than erase the $515 million boost proposed by Kotek for school funding for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. She announced in July that she’d ask the state Legislature early next year to send more than half a billion dollars to the State School Fund for the next biennium to boost student outcomes, literacy rates and more. The fund is responsible for the bulk of district funding, and payroll makes up about 85% of school budgets.

The latest PERS increases are the consequence of an uptick in post-pandemic hiring, public sector wages growing faster than anticipated, a pre-2003 investment formula that made employers liable for massive contributions and several years of underperforming investments, according to Kevin Olineck, director of the system.

The latter is the largest reason for the latest increases, he said. PERS investments were 10% lower in 2022 and 2023, collectively, than the four-member, governor-appointed Oregon Investment Council had anticipated.

“The Oregon Investment Council is very highly invested in private equities, and they did less than what the public equity markets did,” Olineck explained. Being heavily invested in private equities has brought mostly beneficial returns for PERS in the last 10 or 15 years, he added, but not in the last few years.  READ MORE: https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/11/13/oregon-school-districts-employees-face-670-million-increase-in-payments-to-public-pension-system/

OHCS invests $5 million to help youth experiencing homelessness in rural Oregon

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is investing $5 million to combat rural homelessness through the Youth Emergency Housing Assistance Program (YEHA). The $5 million will be disbursed to five different organizations in Coos, Klamath, Lincoln, Douglas, and Josephine Counties that help youth and their families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.

“We are committed to ensuring every young person in Oregon has a safe place to call home,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “By investing in real solutions to address youth homelessness, we aim to bridge the funding and service gaps that rural communities often face. This investment will help create sustainable pathways to housing stability and increase opportunities for our youth to thrive.”

The YEHA project team analyzed data from both Oregon’s Emergency Homelessness Response and the Department of Education to identify which communities had the highest rate of youth experiencing homelessness to ensure these funds make the biggest possible impact. The YEHA project team chose the Coos County Office of Homelessness Response, Integral Youth Services in Klamath County, the Lincoln County Housing Authority, the Phoenix School of Roseburg in Douglas County, and the Maslow Project in Josephine County to receive funding.

“This funding will empower us to expand our outreach, enhance our support services, and build sustainable solutions for the unique challenges faced by our Josephine County community,” said Maslow Project Founder and Executive Director Mary Ferrell. “It’s a vital step toward ensuring that youth and families in our county can access safe and stable housing. We know that when stabilized, youth are far more likely to finish high school, improve their long-term outcomes, and end the cycle of homelessness.”

YEHA aims to provide housing-focused services to school-age children and their families to enhance family stability and school success. The organizations in these counties will establish and promote intentional collaboration between schools and housing providers to extend a reliable family support network and optimize the funding’s impact. These resources will help cover expenses such as rent, utilities, work and educational support, moving costs, transportation, furniture, household goods, and more.

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.

 

Free Fishing Days in Oregon Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 29-30

Make fishing part of your Thanksgiving weekend plans with friends and family. Everyone can fish, clam and crab for free in Oregon on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 29-30.

No fishing/shellfish licenses or tags (including a Combined Angling Tag, Columbia River Basin Endorsement or Two-Rod Validation) are required those two days. Both Oregon residents and nonresidents can fish for free.

All other fishing regulations apply including closures, bag limits and size restrictions. See the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for rules and remember to check for any in-season regulation updates too, especially for salmon and steelhead fishing. Click on the zone where you want to fish to see regulation updates.

The Recreation Report is updated weekly and features the best bests for fishing for the upcoming week. Depending on water levels and conditions, fishing could be good for Chinook or coho salmon; again be sure to check regulations first because not all rivers are open. Trout will also be stocked the week before Thanksgiving at several popular lakes in the Willamette Valley.

For beginners, Easy Angling Oregon is a great guide to getting started fishing in Oregon, https://myodfw.com/articles/easy-angling-oregon-introduction. And if you live near PortlandBendMedfordRoseburg or in Lane County, there are lots of nearby options.

Prefer to crab or clam instead? MyODFW.com has all the information you need to get started clamming or crabbing. Remember to check ocean conditions and take safety precautions—always clam with a friend and never turn your back on the ocean.

Call the ODA Shellfish safety hotline at 1-800-448-2474 or check their Shellfish Closures page before you go clamming or crabbing. The Oregon Department of Agriculture regularly tests shellfish and closes areas when naturally occurring biotoxins get to levels that make crabs and clams unsafe to eat.

Currently, crabbing is open in bays, beaches, estuaries, tide pools, piers and jetties along the entire Oregon coast. Crabbing is closed in the ocean due to the annual closure from Oct. 16-Nov. 30 each year.

As of mid-November, razor clamming is closed from Cascade Head to the California border due to high levels of the marine biotoxin domoic acid, but closures may change by Thanksgiving Weekend so check before you go. (SOURCE)

Triple your impact: Pacific Power will match your contribution to Oregon Energy Fund 2-for-1

Pacific Power Logo

 

Pacific Power is making it simple to make a difference in communities by helping struggling neighbors stay warm this winter. For every dollar that you donate, Pacific Power will match your donation to the Oregon Energy Fund with $2 more.

Pacific Power customers who receive their bills by mail will find they include an Oregon Energy Fund contribution envelope in November. Customers who pay their bills electronically can send a check or enroll in the fixed donation program. To enroll in the fixed donation program, customers can call Pacific Power toll-free at 1-888-221-7070 or Donate to Energy Assistance (pacificpower.net).

This program allows customers to donate any dollar amount, starting at $1 per month, which is then incorporated into their monthly bill. Fixed donations will also be matched 2-for-1 by Pacific Power.

Donations may be tax-deductible and are forwarded directly to the Oregon Energy Fund, which verifies eligibility and allocates funds to those in need. All funds donated are used to assist families in need within the same county in which the donor resides.

“Pacific Power’s commitment to supporting household stability is bolstered by compassion, collaboration and innovation,” said Brian Allbritton, executive director of the Oregon Energy Fund.

“Studies have shown that more than a quarter of Oregonians struggle to pay their bills each year,” said Albritton. “From Oregon Energy Fund’s start in 1989, Pacific Power has been an important partner in bringing emergency bill payment assistance to thousands of vulnerable Oregonians, helping make them healthy and safe while keeping their lights on.”

Last year, donations from Pacific Power’s customers, employees and the company helped 2,995 individuals in need throughout Oregon, including 1,482 adults, 503 seniors, 464 people with disabilities and 1,010 children. This year, Pacific Power will match up to $144,000 in donations.

Customers who need bill assistance can speak with Pacific Power representatives at 1-888-221-7070 who can help with payment plans that work for their individual needs, while directing them to agencies that may be able to help. https://www.pacificpower.net/about/newsroom/news-releases/2024-Oregon-Energy-Fund.html#:~:text=PORTLAND%2C%20Ore.,Energy%20Fund%20with%20%242%20more.

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.

Bureau of Land Management recreation managers are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to fill host positions at six unique locations for the 2025 summer recreation season.

Volunteer hosts play a critical role at BLM recreation sites. They are the primary, daily connection between public land users and BLM staff.  Hosts also assist BLM staff to open and close sites each day, manage campground and shelter reservations, answer visitor questions, encourage visitor rule adherence, and generally maintain the sites.

A paved RV pad is provided at each site for host volunteers. Sites have varying degrees of amenities from full electric, water, and sewer hook-ups to completely primitive sites with only public potable water access. The selected volunteer(s) must provide their own trailer, motorhome, RV, or tent set-up.

Each host will receive a modest daily stipend to off-set some living costs and incidental expenses. Hosts are expected to live on site during the region’s busiest recreation season, typically from April through September. (The start date for the selected host at Sharps Creek will likely be earlier in the year.)

For more information and to apply for these volunteer opportunities, please visit Volunteer.gov. If you have further questions, contact Kendra Barat at kbarat@blm.gov 

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.

Media contest invites Oregon high school students to promote young worker safety; entries due Feb. 21, 2025

Salem – High school students across Oregon are encouraged to put their video or graphic design skills on display by competing for cash prizes as part of a larger cause: increasing awareness about workplace safety and health for young workers.

The 2025 media contest, organized by the Oregon Young Employee Safety (O[yes]) Coalition, calls on participants to create an ad – through a compelling graphic design or video – that grabs their peers’ attention and convinces them to take the Young Employee Safety Awareness online training.

Participants get to choose the key message, theme, or tagline they believe will go furthest in capturing their audience and moving it to act. The target audience? Teen workers or teens who are preparing to work for the first time. The contest is now open for submissions. To compete, participants may submit either a graphic design or a video that is no more than 90 seconds in length.

Participants are expected to choose their key message, theme, or tagline in a wise and positive manner, including constructive and effective messages and language.

The top three entries in each of the two media categories will take home cash prizes ranging from $300 to $500. In each category, the first-place winner’s school, club, or organization will receive a matching award. Moreover, O[yes] will use the best of the submissions as ads in its ongoing efforts to improve on-the-job safety and health protections for teens.

While they carry out their projects, participants must ensure the health and safety of their team. No one should be endangered while creating their video or graphic design project.

The deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. 

Participants are encouraged to submit entries online. Submissions may also be mailed on a USB thumb drive or delivered in person.

For more information about the entry form and rulescontest expectations, and resources – including previous contest winners  – visit the O[yes] online contest page.

The contest sponsors are local Oregon chapters of the American Society of Safety Professionals, Construction Safety Summit, Central Oregon Safety & Health Association, Hoffman Construction Company, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Oregon OSHA, SafeBuild Alliance, SAIF Corporation, and the Oregon Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) Alliance.

### About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

About the Oregon Young Employee Safety Coalition (O[yes]): (O[yes]) is a nonprofit dedicated to preventing young worker injuries and fatalities. O[yes] members include safety and health professionals, educators, employers, labor and trade associations, and regulators. Visit youngemployeesafety.org.

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