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
Friday, December 20, 2024
Rogue Valley Weather
Oregon Advocates See Overreach In Local Camping Restrictions in Grants Pass For Homeless After Court Ruling
Chain link fences ring the perimeters of the two designated homeless camping areas in Grants Pass. The two sites are the only spots where city officials allow homeless camping after they successfully defended their local camping ordinance before the U.S. Supreme Court.
In June, the nation’s highest court ruled in favor of Grants Pass, deciding that cities could impose criminal penalties without running afoul of constitutional provisions against cruel and unusual punishment.
Since then, city officials have limited where about 600 homeless people can pitch a tent or sleep to just two locations in the city of 39,000.
The new limitations have alarmed disability rights advocates and volunteer medical outreach workers who treat the people staying there.
“We have to stop blaming the people who’ve been forced to live outside because of this massive housing shortage, not just blaming them, but vilifying them and arresting them and jailing them,” said Edward Johnson with the Oregon Law Center who represented the plaintiffs before the Supreme Court.
Mayor Sara Bristol said having two sites is intended to keep smaller ones from popping up throughout Grants Pass and provide a temporary location while working toward long-term goals like shelter beds.
Broadly, Grants Pass shows how cities across the U.S. are challenged with crafting local camping ordinances that balance the rights of unhoused people with competing interests, from business owners to those with disabilities trying to access a sidewalk without obstacles blocking their way.
What’s more, a lack of adequate shelter beds falls far short of the nation’s growing homeless population, which was 653,104 people in a point-in-time count in January 2023. The system has about 218,000 fewer shelter beds than necessary, that report found.
As homelessness becomes more political, rhetoric during elections conflate homelessness with crime, leading candidates to promise to get tough on the issue, Johnson said. Once considered allies, Democratic leaders find themselves under pressure to respond in their communities, with some weighing President-elect Donald Trump’s stance of clearing camps and relocating people to land with some social services.
But that’s not a solution. “It may be a short-term solution to getting reelected, but it is not going to end homelessness,” he said.
After the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, Grants Pass city officials enacted a new policy designating homeless camping to the two lots nearly a mile apart, instead of any city park. What’s more, people can only stay in each spot for seven days. This means they must move between the two locations every week. (READ MORE)
Pacific Power and Pacific Power Foundation make a difference this holiday season
— Thursday, Pacific Power volunteers came together to lend a helping hand at ACCESS, a local nonprofit offering vital services in Jackson County, Oregon. Pacific Power employees volunteered their time to brighten the holidays for those in need and ensure that everyone can experience the warmth and spirit of the season.
The employee volunteers joined in support of this community-based organization by taking part in a volunteer shift at their warehouse to help sort, bag and box up food and hygiene products for distribution through Jackson County food pantries.
To further ACCESS’s mission, the Pacific Power Foundation awarded a grant of $40,000 to help make a significant impact in the community.
“By collaborating with local community organizations like ACCESS, the foundation is able to contribute to initiatives that foster a sense of unity, promote shared purpose and ensure a sustainable impact,” said Ryan Flynn, director of the Pacific Power Foundation and president of Pacific Power. “This ongoing partnership is essential to strengthening communities and creating a brighter future for all.”
Two Men Charged For Starting Fire At Medford Campus Of Rogue Community College
Two Jackson County men are facing arson charges after court documents say they lit a fire at the Medford campus of Rogue Community College on Wednesday 12/18.
20-year-old Nathan Svinth of Central Point and 18-year-old Christian McLennan of Medford were charged on Thursday in Jackson County Circuit Court. Both McLennan and Svinth are being charged with first-degree arson and recklessly endangering another person.
According to court documents, the two men illegally and intentionally damaged property at the RCC campus on 101 S Bartlett Street by starting a fire or causing an explosion.
Medford Announces Daytime Lane Closures for Utility Inspections on Dec 19-23
Medford residents and visitors, mark your calendars and plan your routes accordingly as the city announces upcoming lane closures that will affect several streets. Hydromax USA LLC will be inspecting piped utilities on behalf of Avista Utilities from December 19 through December 23, according to the City of Medford. These inspections are scheduled during the daytime, and flaggers will be present to guide traffic.
LANE CLOSURES –
- Roberts Road from Crater Lake Avenue to Temple Drive: Expect Intermittent lane closures with signs in place and flaggers while Hydromax USA LLC inspects piped utilities on behalf of Avista Utilities, December 19-23, 2024, between 9am-2pm
- Springbrook Road from Delta Waters Road to Bell Court: Expect Intermittent lane closures with signs in place and flaggers while Hydromax USA LLC inspects piped utilities on behalf of Avista Utilities, December 19-23, 2024, between 8am-4pm
- Ellendale Drive from Greenwood Street to Barnett Road: Expect Intermittent lane closures with signs in place and flaggers while Hydromax USA LLC inspects piped utilities on behalf of Avista Utilities, December 19-23, 2024, between 8am-4pm
- Airport Road from Milligan way to Biddle Road: Expect Intermittent lane closures with signs in place and flaggers while Hydromax USA LLC inspects piped utilities on behalf of Avista Utilities, December 19-23, 2024, between 8am-4pm
Travelers should expect delays associated with this work and are advised to seek alternate routes and parking. We appreciate your patience and cooperation in keeping Medford’s work zones safe. Work schedules are dependent on weather conditions and other factors.
Officials from the city remind everyone to exercise patience, “Travelers should expect delays associated with this work and are advised to seek alternate routes and parking,” as stated by the City of Medford. https://www.medfordoregon.gov/News-Articles/Traffic-Impact-Items-Folder/Traffic-Impact-Items-December-19-23-2024
Due to the seriousness of the shooting, Grants Pass Police Detectives and the Chief Deputy Attorney for the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation. It was determined that multiple gunshots were fired at occupied apartments, and no persons were struck by gunfire. The Oregon State Police Crime Lab collected numerous items of evidence from the scene.
The investigation continues with additional assistance from the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Rogue Area Drug Enforcement team, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.
The suspect(s) in this case are considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information or video should contact the Grants Pass Police Department at 541-450-6260.
Due to the ongoing investigation, no additional information can be released at this time.
Anonymous Donation Helps Ashland School District Temporarily Avoid Fiscal Crisis
Ashland School District had been on track to be in the hole over $1 million at the end of this fiscal year. The district also doesn’t have enough money to cover expenses through next October. Declining enrollment, increased staffing and other factors have contributed to the deficit in the district that serves about 2,600 K-12 students.
But at Thursday’s school board meeting, Superintendent Joseph Hattrick announced the receipt of an anonymous donation of $890,000, which will help ease budget issues.
In addition, the school board approved up to six furlough days to help cut costs. The short-term plan also includes reducing some contracted services, continuing a freeze on discretionary spending, making all field trips cost-neutral, reducing staff through attrition and cutting all expenses for administrator professional development and travel, among other things.
All those efforts together mean the district will save over $2.2 million this fiscal year. This amount allows for any unanticipated costs and gives the district the equivalent of 2.5% reserves.
Now, the district has to focus on saving another $3.5 million in cash to make it to November, when property tax payments arrive, and on creating a long-term plan for financial stability.
The district does not anticipate laying off any staff this year, although it did so at the end of the 2023-24 school year.
Ashland School District is not alone in its financial struggles. Many districts throughout the state are also facing budget deficits. However, Ashland chose to spend its federal COVID relief money on more than 70 new full-time staff, meaning that fund balance was in the red by almost $800,000 at the beginning of this fiscal year.
That hiring decision has caught up with the district, as it spends about 85% of its general fund expenses on salaries and benefits. The employee attrition that school officials expected has not occurred, and meanwhile enrollment has declined so that the district currently has about 300 fewer students than it did in 2017.
The district recently held a series of community listening sessions to inform residents about the dire financial situation and gather feedback on how to address the problem.
At one of them, Hattrick — who has only been on the job since July — expressed optimism that the district will be able to successfully address the crisis.
“It’s what I signed up for. I mean, I have had success with dealing with this, not to this extent, but I’m confident that as a community we can solve it together,” he said. “It’s just going to take time and patience. The biggest challenge is no decision, no decision, is going to please everybody.”
This republished story is part of OPB’s broader effort to ensure that everyone in our region has access to quality journalism that informs, entertains and enriches their lives. To learn more, visit our journalism partnerships page.
OHCS Files Lawsuit Against the Companies that Built Royal Oak Housing Units
Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) has filed an $11.7 million lawsuit against Nashua Homes of Idaho, Inc (“Nashua”) and Pacific Housing Partners (PHP).
The lawsuit states that Nashua built the units with “serious and substantial defects.” The units arrived in Oregon with weatherproofing issues, which caused water and mold damage to the interiors of the mobile units.
The lawsuit states that OHCS discovered the errors and informed PHP, which covered the unit’s warranty, but neither Nashua nor PHP committed to fixing the weatherproofing or damage in a meaningful way.
68 of the mobile homes were put up for auction in October and November. All 68 units sold. OHCS has not released how much money was made during the auction period.
The Grants Pass City Council approved a grant to fund the establishment of a low barrier homeless shelter in the city.
The shelter will be located at 10 and 220 Redwood Highway, where the Mobile Integrative Navigation Team (MINT) currently operates. MINT will manage the shelter once it is operational.
Once fully functioning, the shelter is planned to accommodate up to 100 people, with an initial capacity of 50 individuals within the next six months. The city will purchase the buildings at an appraisal price of up to $200,000 each, and MINT will be required to operate the shelter for a minimum of ten years.
While the plan has generated some discussion, including concerns about the timeline, location, and condition of the buildings, it is seen as a step toward addressing homelessness in the city. The shelter will offer a low-barrier model, meaning it will be accessible to a broader range of individuals, and is expected to provide necessary resources to those in need.
The shelter is expected to help reduce homelessness in public spaces and offer vital support services.
Tips To Purchase a Permit to Cut Your Christmas Tree From an Oregon National Forest
The holiday season is upon us, which means the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree is on. For those looking to bring home a real tree, permits are available now for all Oregon national forests.
Christmas tree permits are available for purchase online at recreation.gov (with an added $2.50 processing fee charged by the website) and at local U.S. Forest Service offices or from local vendors.
Permits are $5 each, and each permit allows the cutting of one Christmas tree. Households can purchase a maximum of five permits.
For downloadable maps of tree-cutting areas and a list of local vendors selling tree permits, go to bit.ly/WNFtree .
Fourth-grade students can receive a free tree permit by getting their Every Kid Outdoors pass and entering the voucher or pass number when prompted on Recreation.gov or by visiting a Forest Service office.
Pollinator Project Rogue Valley – Hey, we are a quarter of the way to our 2024 Match!
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 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.
– 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?
https://firebrandcollective.org/harp/
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
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
Holiday Shipping Guide: Your Last-Minute Dates for USPS, FedEx, UPS and Amazon Shipping
Doing some last-minute shopping? Don’t wait. As of today, you still have time to ship your gifts so they’ll arrive before Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. You’re going to need to act quickly, though. The first deadlines that will guarantee on-time delivery are coming up this week, and you need to be prepared.
FedEx shipping deadlines to arrive by Dec. 25, 2024
With Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, you’ll be able to take take advantage of overnight shipping from FedEx on Monday, Dec. 23. In a pinch, you can also ship FedEx SameDay on Tuesday, Dec. 24, to get your package delivered by Christmas. FedEx Express Saver, 2Day and 3Day deadlines are all the week before Christmas, and the FedEx Ground deadline is two weeks before, on Dec. 17.
Here are the dates FedEx recommends you ship by (PDF) to have your packages arrive on or before Dec. 25 in the US.
FedEx holiday shipping deadlines
| Domestic service | Ship date |
|---|---|
| Ground | Dec. 17 |
| Express Saver | Dec. 19 |
| 2Day and 2Day AM* | Dec. 20 |
| First Overnight and Priority Overnight* | Dec. 23 |
| SameDay | Dec. 24 |
*You can send FedEx 2Day and FedEx 2Day AM one day later on Saturday, Dec. 21, with an optional Saturday Delivery surcharge for $16 per package.
UPS shipping deadlines to arrive by Dec. 25, 2024
As with FedEx, UPS shipping deadlines are a little more reasonable this week, with the holiday landing on a Wednesday instead of a Monday, as it did in 2023. You’ll need to send your very last packages by Dec. 23 to make sure they arrive by Dec. 25. Here are UPS’ recommended shipping dates (PDF) for Christmas 2023.
UPS holiday shipping deadlines
| Domestic service | Ship date |
|---|---|
| Ground | Check the UPS website for deadlines |
| 3-Day Select | Dec. 19 |
| 2nd Day Air | Dec. 20 |
| Next Day Air | Dec. 23 |
USPS shipping deadlines for Dec. 25, 2024
The US Postal Service deadlines for shipping Christmas packages also a bit more favorable for last-minute shopping this year. Here are the dates the US Postal Service recommends you circle on your calendar if you want packages to arrive before Dec. 25, including for Alaska and Hawaii.
USPS holiday shipping deadlines
| Domestic service | Date (excluding Alaska and Hawaii) | Date for Alaska | Date for Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS Retail Ground | Dec. 18 | Dec. 16 | Dec. 16 |
| First-Class Mail | Dec. 18 | Dec. 18 | Dec. 18 |
| Priority Mail | Dec. 19 | Dec. 19 | Dec. 19 |
| Priority Mail Express | Dec. 21 | Dec. 20 | Dec. 20 |
Amazon estimated shipping deadlines for Dec. 25, 2024
You may be able to streamline the shopping and mailing process by ordering straight from Amazon and shipping the package directly to your giftee. But heads up: Amazon has a habit of waiting until much closer to Christmas before it lists its holiday shipping deadlines. We can extrapolate the deadline this year from shipping dates for preceding holiday seasons.
Note that these are estimated delivery dates. If it were us, and Christmas was close, we might not risk everything on those one-day and same-day delivery dates and instead send an electronic gift certificate. All shipping dates except for e-gift cards and free shipping in five to eight days are exclusively for Prime members.
One thing to look for: Amazon said Same-Day Delivery is available in more than 90 metro areas, so check whether your area has Same-Day Delivery. You can also look for “free delivery today” next to the product name. And each Amazon product listing page will also provide an estimated shipping date.
Amazon holiday shipping deadlines
| Shipping type | Deadline to buy | Date delivered |
|---|---|---|
| Free shipping | Dec. 14 | Dec. 24 |
| 2-day shipping (Prime) | Dec. 22 | Dec. 24 |
| 1-day shipping (Prime) | Dec. 23 | Dec. 24 |
| Same day delivery (Prime) | Dec. 24 | Dec. 24 |
| e-Gift card delivery | Dec. 25 | Dec. 25 |
How to ship packages to arrive in time for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa this year
Shipping companies don’t generally list specific deadlines for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. However, since both holidays mostly align with Christmas this year, you can use the same deadlines.
Hanukkah starts on the evening of Dec. 25 this year, and Kwanzaa begins the next day on Dec. 26. If you want any Hanukkah or Kwanzaa packages to arrive before the holiday begins, use the shipping deadlines for Christmas.
Nothing is guaranteed, and storms and package supply shortages may result in shipping delays, as happened a few years ago.
To make sure your packages are safely delivered, here’s how to guard against porch pirates. (SOURCE)
Murdock Trust Announces Grants to Oregon Nonprofits
Today, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust published its Summer 2024 Grants Report. The report announces:
- 74 total grants to Pacific Northwest nonprofits totaling $20,745,200.
- This includes more than $6.2 million through 22 grants to nonprofits serving the Oregon community.
- The report can be found here. A full list of grantees can be found here.
The M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust is a private, nonprofit foundation that has invested more than $1.4 billion in nonprofits serving the Pacific Northwest since 1975. For details, please visit our website murdocktrust.org.
Frito-Lay Recalls Lay’s Classic Potato Chips In Oregon, Washington Over Undeclared Milk
Frito-Lay announced on Dec. 16 that it had issued a voluntary recall of a limited number of 13-oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips due to the potential presence of undeclared milk. The recall follows a consumer contact who alerted the company to the issue.
Individuals with allergies or severe sensitivities to milk are at risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume the affected product.
The recall applies specifically to 13-oz. Lay’s Classic Potato Chips distributed to retail stores and e-commerce platforms in Oregon and Washington. The chips were available for purchase beginning Nov. 3, 2024.
The recalled chips can be identified by their “Guaranteed Fresh” date of Feb. 11, 2025, and specific manufacturing codes listed as 6462307xx or 6463307xx. The product’s UPC is 28400 31041.
Frito-Lay has emphasized that the recall does not affect other Lay’s products, flavors, sizes, or variety packs.
The chips are packaged in flexible bags, and the company has provided detailed instructions for identifying the recalled product. Consumers who have purchased the affected chips are urged not to consume them and to discard them immediately.
No allergic reactions related to this issue have been reported to date. Frito-Lay notified the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about the recall as part of its safety protocol.
Consumers with questions or concerns about the recall are encouraged to contact Frito-Lay Consumer Relations at 1-800-352-4477. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4:30 pm CST.
This recall is a precautionary measure to protect individuals with milk allergies. Before consuming the product, consumers are advised to carefully check their chip bags for the specified date codes and manufacturing numbers.
Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Response to Concerning Letters Circulating
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office recently learned about a letter being circulated throughout Lincoln County which encourages community members to track and report information regarding people of color, specifically community members that are believed to be undocumented. We want to be unequivocal in our stance: this type of behavior is harmful, divisive, and inconsistent with the values we uphold as public servants and community members. Targeting individuals in this manner erodes trust and undermines the sense of safety and inclusion that we strive to maintain in Lincoln County.
One of the things we tell each person when they join our team is to “do the right thing”. We are encouraging our community members to do the right thing and use compassion as we encounter these types of messages. We strongly advise against engaging in activities such as those outlined in this letter, including collecting or sharing information about individuals based on their demographic or perceived immigration status.
In addition to valuing diversity and equity, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is committed to upholding Oregon law with regard to immigration enforcement. Oregon law generally prohibits the inquiry or collection of an individual’s immigration or citizenship status, or country of birth, with few specific exceptions as outlined in Oregon Revised Statute 181A.823. Consistent with this, the Sheriff’s Office does not inquire about, document, or share such information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These provisions are embedded in our policy manual and are essential to ensuring that our practices respect the rights and dignity of all individuals.
The mission of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is to enhance public safety, reduce the fear and impact of crime, and improve the quality of life for all. We are committed to continuous learning and growth to better serve every member of our community. Diversity strengthens our communities, and we take pride in growing and thriving alongside the people we serve.
New facial illustration released in Clatsop County cold case – Public assistance sought to identify remains
With the assistance of a new facial re-approximation from Parabon NanoLabs, a 25-year-old Oregon State Police (OSP) cold case is receiving new attention. Working closely with Oregon State Police Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Nici Vance, Parabon used the individual’s genetic phenotype to create the latest illustration.
On Nov. 3, 1999, mushroom pickers reported the discovery of human skeletal remains in rural Clatsop County. The unidentified partial remains were located in a wooded area off Hwy. 26 near milepost 29. At the time, searchers located remains over a wide area, including a skull and lower jaw with all the teeth present.
A forensic examination of the skeletal remains indicated the deceased is female, 16-30 years of age, about 5 ft. 2 in. tall, and weighing between 108-117 pounds. Forensic anthropologists believe the individual had given birth some time prior.
Investigators also found white athletic socks, Levi’s blue jeans size 33×34, a medium-sized black leather jacket, and a silver-colored “peace symbol” belt buckle in the same wooded area.
Investigators hope the new illustration will help renew interest in the case to determine the young woman’s identity. “This new illustration created by Parabon NanoLabs may be the key to unlocking her identity; we hope someone may recognize her now. We also know her ancestry includes relatives from Western Europe, West Africa, and Central America, which are huge clues to her origins and family. Everyone deserves the dignity of a name; through our partnership with Parabon NanoLabs, we will continue to search for her family and ultimately identify her.”
Since 2019, Parabon and the Oregon State Police have partnered to identify more than 30 previously unidentified individuals in Oregon using Parabon’s groundbreaking technology and investigative genetic genealogy research.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective Derek Rose through OSP’s Northern Command Center at 800-442-0776 or *OSP (*677) on a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP99433623.
AAA expects 119 million Americans including nearly 1.7 million Oregonians to travel for the holidays
– AAA projects 119.3 million Americans (35% of the population) including 1.68 million Oregonians will travel 50 miles or more for the Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year holidays. This year’s travel volume narrowly beats the previous record set in 2019 by 64,000 travelers. AAA expects an additional three million travelers this holiday season compared to last year.
The year-end holiday travel period is defined as Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, through Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025.
“With Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, many are taking the entire week off or working remotely so they can extend their holiday break,” says Doreen Loofburrow. “Travel demand has been strong all year, and now we’ll finish 2024 setting a new record for holiday travel,” says Doreen Loofburrow, senior vice president of travel for AAA Oregon/Idaho.
“AAA expects travel volumes to soar this holiday season, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers, as Americans drive, fly and cruise to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah and ring in 2025. Expect busy roads and crowded airports, pack your patience, and have a plan B as weather is always the wildcard this time of year,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.
Most travelers will drive – About 90% of travelers or 107 million Americans will drive to their holiday destinations. This is 2.5 million more than in 2023 but just shy of 2019’s record of 108 million. In Oregon, about 1.5 million will drive. Driving is often the most flexible and affordable way to travel, which is why it’s the number one mode. It’s especially appealing for families with small children.
Air travel to soar to record high – Air travel sets a record this holiday season, with 7.85 million Americans including 160,000 Oregonians taking to the skies. This surpasses the previous record of 7.5 million air travelers last year. In all, about 6.6% of all holiday travelers will fly to their destinations. Find AAA’s tips and advice for air travelers below.
Other modes will see highest volumes in 20 years – Travel by other modes, including cruises, trains and buses, will be the highest in 20 years with nearly 4.5 million travelers including about 62,000 Oregonians. This is up nearly 10% from last year. Domestic cruise bookings are up 37% compared to last holiday season. In all, about 3.7% of all travelers will go by these modes. Cruises are very popular over the holidays because they appeal to multiple generations and there’s something for everyone on board.
Top holiday destinations – These are the trending destinations for regional, domestic and international travel for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho based on bookings by our AAA travel agents and at AAA.com.
Theme parks, beaches and European cities are among the most popular spots. Bend tops the list as the most popular regional destination again this year.
Gas prices are cheapest for the holidays in four years
Those taking a holiday road trip will find gas prices at their cheapest since 2020. The current (as of Dec. 17) national average for regular unleaded is $3.03 and the Oregon average is $3.47. These prices are at or near the year-to-date lows for 2024. Visit the AAA Fuel Prices website for current gas prices and EV charging rates.
AAA members can fill up for less at Shell stations when they join the Fuel Rewards® program at AAA.com/Shell. Save 30¢/gal on your first fill-up at Shell when you join the Fuel Rewards® program by 12/31/25 and make your first transaction within 30 days of joining. After that, save 5¢/gal every day on each individual fill-up of up to 20 gallons from participating Shell stations. Find current fuel prices at GasPrices.AAA.com.
Best and worst times to drive; Peak traffic expected December 22 and 29 – The busiest days for road trippers are expected to be Sunday, December 22 as folks head out to their Christmas destinations, and again on Sunday, December 29 as people return home. But roads will be busier than usual throughout the holiday season with a record number of travelers going by car. The afternoon and evening hours from December 19 through December 23, and from December 26 through January 2, will all have more congestion, especially on the weekdays in urban areas as commuters mix with holiday travelers, The lightest traffic is expected on December 24 and 25.
Some metro areas across the U.S. could have travel times that are two to three times longer than typical drive times, especially in larger urban areas. In Oregon, drivers can expect that their trips will take 8% to 50% longer than a normal commute, assuming no additional delays from crashes or winter weather.
“Leave early if you can. Mornings during the holiday season are the times with the least congestion. You can also avoid the heaviest traffic by traveling on the actual holidays – December 24, 25, 31 and January 1. But with a record number of travelers taking a holiday road trip, assume traffic will be heavier than usual and that it will probably take you longer to get to your destination,” says Dodds.
AAA also recommends using traffic apps, local Department of Transportation notifications, 511 services, and local news and traffic reports to get real-time updates.
Grants available for main street building projects statewide
The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is offering grants for up to $400,000 in matching funds for downtown revitalization efforts in communities participating in the Oregon Main Street Network. The Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant funds may be used to acquire, rehabilitate, and construct buildings on properties in designated downtown areas statewide.
Funded projects must facilitate community revitalization that will lead to private investment, job creation or retention, establishing or expanding viable businesses, or creating a stronger tax base. Projects may include façade improvement, accessibility enhancement, basic utilities, second floor renovations, and more. Only organizations participating in the Oregon Main Street Network are eligible to apply. Projects must be within approved Main Street areas. Eligible organizations may collaborate with the local governments and private property owners to apply for projects that will have the biggest benefit to the downtown. The grant application deadline is March 13, 2025.
In 2015, Oregon legislation established a permanent fund for the grant and provided an initial $2.5 million of funding as part of a larger lottery bond package. The $10,000,000 lottery bond funding for this grant cycle was approved in the 2023 legislative session.
Preservation office staff is happy to talk with applicants about potential grant projects and review applications prior to submitting. A free online workshop specific to the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant will be January 9, 2025 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Registration is required.
Other resources available include:
- Prepping for the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant – with tips for organizational preparation and project planning and selection.
- Heritage Bulletin: Board Involvement with Grants – with tips on organizational success for grant management.
- Secretary of Interior Standards for Historic Rehabilitation – A webinar to share with the team and property owners.
To learn more about the grant and workshop, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov“>Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-6085. To learn more about the Oregon Main Street Network contact Sheri Stuart at i.Stuart@oprd.oregon.gov“>Sheri.Stuart@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0679.
Oregon’s Nonfarm Payroll Employment Rises by 5,100 in November
In November, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment gained 5,100 jobs, following a revised increase of 3,500 jobs in October. November’s gains were largest in health care and social assistance (+2,300 jobs); construction (+2,100); and professional and business services (+700). Declines were largest in leisure and hospitality (-700 jobs).
Private health care and social assistance has been adding jobs very rapidly since June 2022. It expanded by 41,700 jobs, or 15.6%, during that 29-month period. The fastest growing components during that time were social assistance (+17,800 jobs, or 27.0%) and nursing and residential care facilities (+9,400 jobs, or 19.3%). The other two component industries also added jobs, but grew less rapidly: hospitals (+6,800 jobs, or 11.9%) and ambulatory health care services (+10,200 jobs, or 10.7%).
Construction rebounded in November from a three-month dip, returning the sector’s total employment to 117,500, about where it had been from July 2022 through August 2024.
In the past 12 months, health care and social assistance (+17,500 jobs, or 6.0%) grew rapidly, while government (+6,900 jobs, or 2.2%) added the second most jobs. In that time, only two major industries declined by 1,000 jobs or more: retail trade (-1,700 jobs, or -0.8%) and leisure and hospitality (-1,400 jobs, or -0.7%). About half of the major industries were essentially flat over the year, with job changes of less than 1,200 in either direction.
Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.1% in November and 4.0% in October and has consistently remained between 4.0% and 4.2% since October 2023. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in November and 4.1% in October.
AmeriCorps NCCC Partnership Boosts Oregon’s Emergency Response
Join us in strengthening Oregon’s resilience by hosting an AmeriCorps NCCC team to support your community’s disaster response and recovery efforts!
Oregon is taking a significant step forward in enhancing its emergency response capabilities through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between OregonServes and the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). This strategic partnership represents a collaborative effort to bolster statewide disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
For more information on this partnership contact: Jennifer Denning Disaster Services Coordinator, OregonServes Jennifer.l.denning@hecc.oregon.gov.
What is AmeriCorps NCCC?
AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, team-based program for young adults aged 18-26. Members commit to a term of national service, which can include critical disaster response and recovery services. Through this partnership, NCCC teams will be integrated into Oregon’s disaster preparedness framework, offering vital support before, during, and after disasters.
Key Benefits of the Partnership:
This partnership brings several critical advantages to Oregon communities, including:
- NCCC teams work on a variety of projects filling critical gaps in local resources.
- NCCC members collaborate with local communities to strengthen response efforts, thereby accelerating recovery and repopulation of residents.
- NCCC teams focus on ensuring that underserved and vulnerable populations receive critical resources and assistance during emergencies, bridging equity gaps in disaster response and recovery.
- By integrating local resources with national service members, this partnership enhances Oregon’s capacity to build resilient communities.
Key Dates:
Nationally, NCCC Disaster Service Applications are received throughout the year. For purposes of the NCCC-OregonServes MOU, Pacific Region teams or Summer of Service can serve during these timelines (precise dates will vary year-to-year):
- November 1 – December 16
- January 8- April 16
- April 24 – July 23 (Traditional program applications due, February 7, 2025)
- Summer of Service June 20 – August 1
How to Apply to Be a Disaster Response AmeriCorps Volunteer:
First, download the application instructions below. Then, complete the Service Project Application for Disaster Response. No Project Concept Form is required.
Please note: Download the following document directly to your computer. Open and complete the document using Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat.
Applications and questions should be submitted to: NCCCPRTerritory2@americorps.gov.
Want to Make Your Organization a Project Sponsor?
Nonprofit and faith-based organizations, government entities, public schools, and universities, as well as tribal and native nations are eligible to apply. Organizations complete an application detailing the need and project design and NCCC will review submissions and make a final determination. To learn more about AmeriCorps NCCC and how to apply, please visit the AmeriCorps NCCC webpage.
A high surf advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 1:52 a.m. valid from Saturday 7 a.m. until Monday 10 p.m. for Clatsop County Coast, Tillamook County Coast and Central Coast of Oregon.
“Large waves and hazardous surf conditions. Breakers up to 25 to 30 feet,” can be anticipated according to the weather service. “The largest breakers during this period are expected on Monday associated with the arrival of an energetic westerly swell.”
“Destructive waves may wash over beaches, jetties, and other structures unexpectedly. People can be swept off rocks and jetties and drown while observing high surf. Minor beach erosion may damage coastal properties and buildings. Higher than normal water run-up is expected on beaches and low-lying shoreline. Enhanced possibility for sneaker waves,” explains the weather service. “A High Surf Advisory means that high surf will affect beaches, producing rip currents, sneaker waves and beach erosion. Stay well back from the water’s edge and be alert for exceptionally high waves. Keep away from large logs on the beach. Water running up on the beach can easily lift or roll logs which can injure or kill someone caught in their path.”
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
A 21 year old man was arrested on murder charges by local law enforcement yesterday and booked into the Klamath County jail.
Jail records indicate he was taken into custody on Oregon highway 39 at milepost 13 by Oregon State police and booked into the facility at 12:15am Thursday morning. Tyrone Anthony Cadotte was charged with first-degree murder and first-degree assault charges. No information about the details of the case has been released by any local law enforcement agency.
If you have someone on your holiday gift list that enjoys the outdoors, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has gift ideas.
If they hunt or fish, you can buy them a license. If they kayak or raft, you can buy a waterway access permit. For wildlife viewers or hikers, the wildlife area parking permit costs 30 dollars. You can also make a donation in someone’s name to the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund. https://myodfw.com/articles/gift-outdoors
Oregon State Parks Offering Discounted Parking Passes – Give the gift of the outdoors and save this season with the Oregon State Parks 12-month parking permit sale during December.
Shoppers can buy the annual parking permits for only $25 (regularly $30) from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31. The permit is good for 12 months starting in the month of purchase at the 25 parks that currently charge for parking.
The annual permit is an even better option for frequent park visitors in 2025 when day-use parking fees will increase from $5 to $10 on Jan. 2, 2025.
Purchasing permits is easy. Visitors can buy them online at Oregon State Parks store. They’re also available at select park stores operated by friends’ groups, park visitor centers and local businesses throughout the state. For a complete list, visit stateparks.oregon.gov.
The daily parking fee is required at the 25 parks that charge for day-use parking unless visitors have a 12-month or 24-month parking permit or a same-day camping receipt. The parking fee does not apply to those who hike, bike or use public transportation.
The 24-month permit is $50 and is also available at OregonStateParkStore. The cost for the 12-month and 24-month permits is not currently increasing. The permits are transferable from vehicle to vehicle.
Winter Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon Coast Dec. 27-31
OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week on the Oregon Coast Friday, Dec. 27 through Tuesday, Dec. 31.
Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales on their southward migration to the calving lagoons in Mexico.
The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online at the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching
“Now is a perfect time to see the whales as their population rebounds on the Oregon Coast,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales. Since then, the estimated population has increased by roughly 30% from 14,530 last year to 19,260 this year, according to NOAA. The numbers are on the rise overall, but the calf count is still low as the population continues to rebound.
“While there are more gray whales to see now on the Oregon Coast, the calves remain a rare and important sight,” said Michael Milstein, public affairs officer with NOAA Fisheries.
Winter Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and rangers.
The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.
For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.
Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch Week on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch24.
Ways to get and give help this holiday season
‘Tis the season for connection and caring for one another. But we also know this time of year can be challenging for many families. So whether you need a little extra support, or are looking for ways to give back to your community, we’ve got some suggestions to make the holiday season special.
Ways to get holiday help:
1. Visit the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) holiday resources webpage
Our 2024 holiday resources webpage has a list of local organizations that can provide hot meals, toys, winter clothes and more for families and individuals this holiday season. The page is available in English and Spanish, and you can sort the list by county to find resources in your area.
2. Connect with 211info
Not seeing anything near you on our list? Dial 2-1-1 to connect with someone who can guide you to the support you need. You can also visit 211info.org, enter your zip code, and search for “Holiday Gifts/Toys,” “Christmas Baskets,” or “Christmas Meals.”
3. Reach out to your local ODHS office
We’re here to help! Our local office staff often know about upcoming events and resources in your community. We can also help you learn more about services that be accessed year-round, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Oregon Health Plan (OHP), and more.
Ways to give holiday help:
1. Donate to ODHS or a community organization
ODHS partners with many community organizations that collect donations, like food, clothes, and toys, that support children in foster care, older adults, families in need, and more. For 2024, we’ve compiled a list with some of the ways you can donate to help the families ODHS serves. Don’t see anything on the list in your area? Contact your local ODHS office for more suggestions. You can also make a financial contribution to ODHS and specify how you want it to be used by emailing dhs.volunteerservices@odhs.oregon.gov.
2. Volunteer
Your time is one of the most valuable gifts you can give. At ODHS, we have several temporary volunteer opportunities this holiday season for things like wrapping donations, delivering gifts, and helping at holiday parties for children in ODHS care. Email dhs.volunteerservices@odhs.oregon.gov to learn about holiday openings or to get involved longer-term. If that’s not for you, we also recommend reaching out to local nonprofits or community centers with missions you believe in to see how you can help.
3. Build community connections
Sometimes, the best way to give back is by simply showing up. Attend local events, check in on your neighbors, and spread the word about the ways to get help that we listed above. A little kindness and connection can go a long way!
The Salvation Army out of Monmouth says it received a very special gift in one of its red kettles this season.
In Polk County, an anonymous donor dropped in a gold coin apparently worth $3,000. That’s according to a local jeweler where the Salvation Army took it to get appraised. The good deed-doer dropped the rare coin in a kettle at a Bi-mart. The Salvation Army says the one-ounce coin is over a hundred years old.
The organization says it hopes the act of kindness will inspire others to donate what they can, so the non-profit can make the season bright for those in need.
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 rules, contest 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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