Rogue Valley News, Monday 12/22 – Greystone Court Food and Fund Drive Runs Through December 24th, The Salvation Army Delivered More Than 1,800 Christmas Packages Over The Weekend & Other Local and Statewide News Stories

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 – December 22, 2025

Rogue Valley Weather

https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php

https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php Winter is coming! Here’s the overview of our winter outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

 

 

The Salvation Army delivered Christmas joy to more than 1,800 children during its annual Angel Tree Christmas distribution on Friday and Saturday.

Families who registered lined up to receive gifts as volunteers across Jackson County helped bag and load presents for parents and guardians to give to children.

The Angel Tree program relies on volunteers who spend hours organizing and distributing donated gifts. Many say the experience is deeply personal. 

The Angel Tree program began in 1979 and has continued to grow each year. According Jonnette Mulch, a Salvation Army major in Jackson County, more than 700 families were served during this year’s distribution in Jackson County, with additional families placed on a wait list and scheduled for a makeup distribution day next Monday.

Organizers say continued support from donors and volunteers helps ensure families across Jackson County are able to celebrate Christmas, even during difficult times.

 

 

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Corporal Named Oregon Sheriff’s Deputy of the Year

A Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputy has been recognized with one of Oregon law enforcement’s highest honors. JCSO Corporal Cynthia Mallari was named the 2025 Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association (OSSA) Deputy of the Year during an awards ceremony held Thursday, December 11, in Bend.

Corporal Mallari exemplifies leadership, dedication, and professionalism in every aspect of her law enforcement career. She embodies the JCSO core values — character, competence, courage, and compassion — and consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to her colleagues and the community she serves.

Corporal Mallari has been with JCSO for 13 years. She began her career as a Corrections Deputy in 2012 before transferring to the Patrol Division in 2019. She was promoted to Corporal in 2022 and has continued to distinguish herself as a leader and mentor. In addition to her patrol and supervisory responsibilities, Corporal Mallari serves as a Field Training Officer, Defensive Tactics Instructor, and Crisis Negotiator, bringing extensive expertise and experience to each role.

Known for her positive attitude and strong work ethic, Corporal Mallari approaches every shift with professionalism and enthusiasm. Over the past year, she has worked across three separate patrol shifts, earning the respect and appreciation of every sergeant and deputy she has worked alongside. Her leadership and energy consistently set a high standard and inspire those around her.

As a member of the Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT), Corporal Mallari has proven herself dependable and highly capable. She responded to every CNT callout over the past year, demonstrating composure, sound judgment, and effective communication in high-stress situations. Her ability to listen, assess complex circumstances, and clearly relay critical information up and down the chain of command has made her an invaluable member of the team.

In addition to her regular duties, Corporal Mallari volunteered to assist the Special Victims Unit during a period of overwhelming caseloads. She was one of a select group of deputies asked to take on additional child sex abuse investigations. Despite the demands of patrol work and supervisory responsibilities, she investigated ten child sex abuse and Karly’s Law cases over the past year. She frequently worked on her days off to support victims and their families, attend interviews, locate suspects, and participate in Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meetings.

Corporal Mallari’s exceptional work ethic, leadership, and problem-solving abilities have made her an indispensable part of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. Her contributions this year — and throughout her career — exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement service, making her a deserving recipient of the OSSA Deputy of the Year award.

According to Poll of America’s Most Charming Christmas Towns of 2025 List Jacksonville and Ashland

Two Southern Oregon towns are getting national attention this holiday season after being ranked among the most “Hallmark ready” communities in America, according to a national travel survey by Exoticca.

Jacksonville earned the top spot in Oregon, with Ashland close behind. Both were recognized for their historic charm, holiday traditions, and small town atmosphere that voters said felt “straight out of a movie.”

For more information on Jacksonville’s Victorian Christmas, click here.

In Ashland, the long running Festival of Light transforms the city each November with more than a million lights, carriage rides, and downtown events that continue through New Year’s.

Dana Preston with the Ashland Chamber of Commerce said, “People want to stroll downtown, have a cup of coffee, go shopping underneath the lights. They want to feel that magic and Ashland really gives them that experience.”

For more information on Ashland’s Christmas festivities, click here.

Chambers in both cities say the recognition highlights months of planning each year, including holiday event schedules and lighting installations that begin well before Thanksgiving.

Both towns report strong visitor turnout early this season and expect steady tourism through Christmas.

 

– Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting two free guided First Day Hikes in the area on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. 

 

Wrong Way Driver Mitigation Construction Project in Southern Oregon

Local Residents Invited to Share Input on BLM Forest Health Project in Applegate and Lake Creek Areas

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Ashland Field Office in Medford, Oregon, is seeking public input on a new forest health and timber harvest project. The project will focus on the Applegate and Lake Creek areas. It aims to address Douglas-fir tree deaths by reducing fire risks through salvage harvests and thinning.

Lauren Brown, the Ashland Field Office Manager, said that removing dead and dying trees can help improve forest health and slow the spread of fire. The project is part of the Douglas-fir Mortality Complex Environmental Assessment. Its goal is to make forests more resilient to fire, drought, and insects.

A 37-day public scoping period will start on December 8, 2025. Community members can provide feedback and follow updates on the BLM NEPA Register. The BLM manages 245 million acres of public land in 12 western states, including Alaska.  Visit here for more details

 

Asante is preparing to convert the local Ashland Community Hospital into a satellite campus of Rogue Regional Medical Center, to ensure continued access to services despite financial difficulties in the community.

By the spring of 2026, the hospital will operate as an extension of Rogue Regional, which is located in Medford. Ashland Community Hospital will retain its 24/7 Emergency Department and critical outpatient services, such as surgery, lab, and imaging, at its existing Maple Street site. However, the hospital will discontinue its inpatient and obstetrics services.

Asante reported that Ashland Community Hospital experienced a rise in emergency and outpatient visits over the past year, yet recorded only 37 births from Ashland residents in 2025.

Oregon legislation has placed hospitals in a challenging position, making this transition the only viable option for the hospital to continue offering essential healthcare services.

 

December is bursting with creativity at the Children’s Museum!

CSO Case 24-4928 PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives and Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel continue to search for a woman missing out of Prospect, Ore. since September 2024.

Deenah Padgett, 69, was reported missing on Sunday, September 8, 2024. She was last seen camping in the Prospect area on September 4, 2024. She is described as a white woman with brownish-red, partially gray hair, standing 4’8” tall and weighing 90-100 lbs. JCSO detectives and SAR personnel have searched the area extensively and are looking for the public’s help. If you see Deenah or know her whereabouts, immediately call ECSO Dispatch at (541) 776-7206 and reference case 24-4928. If you have any information that might help the investigation, call Detective Friend at (541) 864-8774.

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.

 

Rogue Valley Humane Society

Please help! We are in need of large towels to help keep our animals clean and happy. Donations would be greatly appreciated and helpful. Please drop them off during business hours, Monday-Saturday, noon – 4 pm. Thank you so much for all you do to help us do what we do!  

Sharing for our friends at Salvation Army:

Help Fill Our Food Pantry – Your Donations Make a Difference! Hunger is a reality for many in our community, but together, we can make a change! Our food pantry is in need of non-perishable food items to help families struggling to put meals on the table. Most Needed Items: Canned vegetables & fruits Rice & pasta Peanut butter & jelly Cereal & oatmeal Soup & canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans) Drop-off Location: 922 N. Central Avenue Medford, OR 97501 Hours: 9am-3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Every can, box, and bag of food makes a difference in someone’s life. Let’s come together to fight hunger—because no one should go to bed hungry. .    

Ashland Rolls Out Free Pre-Approved Plans to Spur Residents into Building Affordable Backyard Homes

Seeking to promote affordability and support residents’ diverse needs, the city of Ashland has encouraged its citizens to develop accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within the city and offers guidance on getting plans approved.

The City of Ashland has streamlined the ADU application process to enhance housing options. It now offers a complete set of pre-approved ADU plans that meet local building codes for free to Ashland property owners.

To get ADU plan approval in Ashland, the Ashland Planning Division offers a free consultation. At the meeting, a City Planner will review your site and provide valuable guidance on the permit application process. The meeting is geared towards helping you understand zoning requirements, building codes, and any other considerations for ADU projects.  Find free City of Ashland ADU plans here

 

Rogue Valley Humane Society · Donations Always Needed to Help Community

Our Community Food Bank exists to help folks who need an extra helping hand during a difficult month to feed their pets. Our program has a limited budget and so we rely on generous members of our community to donate some of these goods to continue to help assist our community.   In 2023 we fed an average of 700 pets a month! This equates to approximately 70 – 40lb bags of food each month!  Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.  

David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active

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

 

Fauna Frey Vanished Without A Trace In  Josephine County

It’s been five years since the disappearance of a Lane County Woman, who was last seen in Grants Pass. Back in June of 2020, Fauna Frey disappeared. Police said the 45-year-old left her home in Dexter to drive to Grants Pass to visit her brother’s friend after her brother had recently passed away. The last place she was seen was at the Big 5 in Grants Pass. Investigators said her car was found in the Galice area months later. The circumstances of Fauna’s disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved. Fauna’s disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, including Nowhere to be Found, Here One Minute, Gone the Next, and Detective Perspective, each trying to fill the silence left by law enforcement. New listeners continue to discover her story, hoping a fresh set of eyes or a single loose memory might be the key to finding Fauna.

Have Information on Fauna Frey? Please Speak Up!

If you know anything, no matter how small, please contact:

• Josephine County Sheriff’s Office
• Tip line: (541) 359-5638
• Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com

Currrently there is a $50,000 CASH REWARD for information leading to the location of Fauna Frey. LARGE CASH REWARDS are being offered for any other relevant information, such as any objects that could be identified as Fauna’s, i.e. her wallet, keys, or Indian/Buffalo .999 silver bullion coins. Find Fauna Frey Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132  

 

You can find food in your community at this link

Our network of food banks and pantries provides free food and groceries across Oregon. No proof of income or documentation required.

https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/

If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.

Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?

Here are resources that can help:

211Info:  Dial 2-1-1 or visit the211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon.

Oregon Food Bank:  Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Map to find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you. 

Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit theADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area. 

AAA Projects Record Travel for Year-end Holidays including 1.7 million Oregonians to dash away this holiday season

AAA projects 122.4 million Americans (36% of the population) including 1.7 million Oregonians will travel 50 miles or more for the Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year holidays. This year’s travel volume is up 2.2% over 2024, surpassing last year’s record of 119.7 million travelers. The year-end holiday travel period is defined as Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, through Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.

For this week in Oregon, AAA expects heavy year-end holiday travel, with many driving and encountering winter weather like rain, wind, and snow, so they advise checking conditions on TripCheck.com, allowing extra time (potentially double), and preparing your vehicle for winter driving. Expect peak travel days Friday/Saturday and next Friday/Saturday. Key Expectations for Oregon Travel This Week:

• High Volume: Record numbers of travelers, with many Oregonians driving to visit family and friends.
• Weather Impact: Expect winter conditions (rain, wind, mountain snow) requiring caution and preparation.
• Traffic Delays: Be prepared for significant delays, potentially doubling travel times on some routes.
• Peak Travel Times: The busiest days for travel are this Friday/Saturday and next Friday/Saturday. 

AAA’s Advice:

• Check TripCheck.com: For real-time road conditions.
• Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is ready for winter weather.
• Allow Extra Time: Give yourself significantly more time to reach your destination.
• Use Traffic Apps: Utilize apps for live updates. 

Most travelers will drive

About 89% of travelers or 109.5 million Americans will drive to their holiday destinations. This is up 2% compared to last year. About 1.5 million Oregonians will take a holiday road trip.

Driving is often the most flexible, convenient and affordable way to travel, which is why it’s the number one mode. It’s especially appealing for families with small children.

With a record number of car travelers, AAA urges drivers to prioritize safety. December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month which serves as a timely reminder to make safe choices and stay vigilant. AAA and MADD encourage travelers to plan safe rides home this holiday season during one of the most dangerous times of year on the road.

Air travel to soar to record high

Air travel sets a record this holiday season, with 8.03 million Americans including 163,000 Oregonians taking to the skies. This is up 2.3% over last year and the first time that the number of domestic air travelers over the year-end holiday period exceeds 8 million. In all, 6.6% of all holiday travelers will fly to their destinations.

Travel by other modes jumps

Travel by other modes, including cruises, trains and buses, will surge 9% with 4.9 million travelers including about 68,000 Oregonians. This category has seen a 25% increase since 2019, mainly due to the record-setting demand for cruises since the pandemic. Cruises are very popular over the holidays because they appeal to multiple generations and there’s something for everyone on board. In all, about 4% of travelers will travel by other modes.

Those taking a holiday road trip will find declining gas prices. The national average for regular gas is below $3 a gallon for the first time since May 2021 and is about 18 cents per gallon less than last Christmas. The Oregon average has been falling but is still about 8 cents per gallon higher than last year.

The current (as of Dec. 21) national average for regular unleaded is $2.86 and the Oregon average is $3.53.

Visit the AAA Fuel Prices website for current gas prices and EV charging rates.

Best and worst times to drive; peak traffic expected December 20, 21, and 26

AAA and INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, expect Christmas week to be busier on the roads than New Year’s week, but both weeks will see days of increased traffic.

The most congested days for road trippers are expected to be on Saturday and Sunday before Christmas. Roadways will also be busy on Friday, Saturday and Sunday after Christmas as people return home. Because the year-end holiday travel period spans a relatively long time frame, travelers have more options for departures and returns. The holidays themselves – Christmas and New Year’s Day – are typically the lightest traffic-wise but crashes or severe weather could create unexpected delays.

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.

“If you can, pack everyone in the car and leave as early possible as mornings tend to have the least amount of congestion. Traveling on the actual holidays—December 24, 25, 31, and January 1—can also help you avoid peak traffic. Still, with a record number of travelers hitting the road this season, expect heavier traffic and longer travel times than usual. A little planning and plenty of patience will help keep your holidays merry and bright,” 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. Visit https://tripcheck.com/ for the latest conditions on Oregon roadways.

AAA’s tips for a safe drive:

• Get your car road-trip ready. Breakdowns are always a hassle, and you don’t want to be stranded during the holidays. Find a trusted mechanic nearby at AAA.com/repair.
• Be sure your vehicle and passengers are ready for winter driving conditions. Get tips and advice, including what to put in your emergency kit, at AAA.com/winterprep  (https://aaa.com/winterprep). Bring enough provisions and warm clothing so that you can keep everyone safe if you are stranded for several hours or even overnight.
• Please let family members or friends know your itinerary, so authorities have an idea where to start looking for you if you don’t make it to your destination.
• Don’t blindly follow your GPS. If a road looks remote and not well traveled or maintained, don’t proceed!
• Slow Down, Move Over.A roadside worker is killed every other week in the U.S. To help prevent these tragedies, AAA asks drivers to Slow Down, Move Over. When you see an emergency responder on the side of the road assisting a stranded driver, reduce your speed and, If possible, change lanes to give those crews room to do their jobs safely. All 50 states, including Oregon, and the District of Columbia, have Move Over laws in place.
• Drive only when alert and refreshed. Driving on four to five hours of sleep is as dangerous as driving with a 0.08 BAC (legal intoxication). Less than 4 hours of sleep? The risk doubles. Travel during hours you’re normally awake and avoid overnight drives. Take a break every couple of hours. If needed, park at a safe location and take a 20-to-30-minute nap to recharge.
• Of course, if you’re driving, don’t get impaired. If you’re impaired, don’t drive.

AAA has advice for air travelers:

• Download the airline’s app on your phone and set it up for push notifications so that you’ll be notified about departure and arrival information as well as any flight changes, delays or cancellations. FlightAware and other sites let you track your incoming flight so you can find other options if that flight is late or cancelled. The site also provides a comprehensive look at all of the flights being cancelled or delayed in North America and around the world.
• Get to the airport early – two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. The increase in travelers can make for longer than usual wait times to get through security.
• If you need to park at the airport, book a parking spot in advance or at least check on availability before you go. Many airports including Portland International airport let you check current availability https://www.flypdx.com/Parking.  Better yet, take transit, use a ride sharing service, or get a ride from a friend to the airport.
• Carry your bags on your flight instead of checking them. If you do need to check bags, bring medications, a change of clothes, comfortable shoes, and any other necessary items in your carry on bag. Make sure your bags have name tags, and also put your name and contact info inside each bag. Consider using an Apple AirTag, Samsung Galaxy SmartTag, or another tracker if you do check your bags.
• Plan ahead for meals and snacks. Full airports can mean long lines and wait times at restaurants. Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks. Many airlines allow you to pre-order food up to 24 hours before your flight. The TSA allows solid foods through screening but liquids or gels (such as yogurt) must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
• Consider signing up for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and/or CLEAR to expedite the security screening process. Do make sure the airports you use offer CLEAR as it’s not available at all airports. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and is a good option when traveling internationally as it expedites the process at passport control when you’re coming back to the U.S.

What to do if your flight is cancelled

• If your flight is canceled by the airline or there are significant delays, they will try to accommodate you on a later flight; however, you are entitled to a full refund under federal law.
• Weather is considered an “act of God”. Airlines will rebook you on flights that are available but are not required to do much more. The issue is when flights are full, rebooking passengers can be a challenge and could be days later.
• If you do call your airline, expect long wait times if you call the customer service number. You may have better luck dialing the international or rewards phone number. If you’re already at the airport, use a three-pronged approach: while waiting in line to speak to an airline representative at the gate or ticket counter, use the airline’s app to try to book a new flight and/or call the airline.

Tips on booking flights:

• Book the first flight of the day or early morning flights if you can. They are less likely to be cancelled or delayed.
• Try not to book tight connecting flights – you’ll want enough time to change flights in case your originating flight is late.
• If you really need to be at your destination on a certain day, book flights a day or two early so that you have a buffer. A winter weather event can wreak havoc on airlines’ schedules.
• If possible, avoid airports for connecting flights where winter weather can lead to delays, including Denver, Chicago O’Hare, Newark Liberty, LaGuardia, and JFK.
• Don’t book more than one flight. Duplicate bookings will not only cost you a non-refundable ticket but could also cause both reservations to be canceled. Many carriers have algorithms in place to spot dupes and cancel both itineraries which could leave you with no flights at all.

Holiday travel costs

This holiday season, AAA finds that travelers are generally paying more for domestic flights, domestic hotels, international hotels, and domestic rental cars compared to last year. But travelers are paying less for cruises, tours, international flights, and international car rentals.

Flights

• The average price for a domestic roundtrip flight is $890, up 7% this holiday season compared to last year.
• The average price for an international roundtrip flight is $1,400, down 14% from last year.

Hotels

• The average price for a domestic hotel stay (typically a few nights) is $750, up 13% from 2024.
• The average price for an international hotel stay (typically a few nights) is $1,230, up 12% from last year.

Rental cars

• The average price for a domestic rental car (typically for several days) is $635, up 1% from 2024.
• The average price for an international rental car (typically for several days) is $720, down 12% from last year.
• AAA partner Hertz says the busiest pick-up day will be Saturday, December 20. Other busy days for pick-ups and returns are Sunday, December 21 and Friday, December 26.
• Orlando, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami and Phoenix have the highest demand for rental cars.
• Small SUVs make up the most popular car rental class over the year-end holidays.

Cruises

• The average price for a cruise departing from domestic cities is $1,150, down 14% compared to 2024.
• The average price for a cruise departing from international cities is $2,400, down 24% from last year.

Tours

• The average price for a domestic tour is $920,10% less than last holiday season.
• The average price for an international tour is $1,035, down 10% from last year.

What to know before you go – AAA tips for holiday travelers

• Take all necessary travel documentation, including your Real ID, driver’s license, and/or passport, as well as health insurance cards.
• Consider working with a travel agent.  They can help you plan the trip that meets your needs and budget this holiday season, provide the best value for your vacation dollars, explore travel insurance options, assist with any last-minute changes to travel plans, and act as an advocate if the unexpected happens.
• Travel and medical insurance. AAA strongly recommends travel insurance to cover unexpected delays or trip interruptions, especially if you’ve paid a lot of money for your trip. Travel insurance provides a safety net should something unexpected happen ahead of or during your trip. Travel insurance can cover expenses associated with flight cancellations, travel delays, lost luggage, and trip cancellation.

Read the fine print before purchasing a policy, or better yet, work with a travel agent who can help you get the policy that’s right for you.

Medical travel insurance can provide coverage for illness and injuries and that may not be included in your regular health insurance plan. Medical insurance can be especially valuable if you are traveling outside the U.S. as people without medical insurance may have to pay up front for any services. Check with your health insurance provider. Travel agents can also advise on what medical travel insurance policy makes the most sense for your trip.

AAA to the Rescue 

Before you head out on a holiday road trip, be sure your vehicle is ready to avoid a breakdown along the way. Last year, AAA responded to more than 862,000 calls including 8,500 Oregonians at the roadside over the holidays. Dead batteries, lockouts, flat tires and extrications are the top issues.

AAA makes it easy to request assistance – by phone (800-222-HELP) or the AAA Mobile App – and members can track the service technician’s progress as they make their way to your vehicle.

When AAA responds to those roadside emergencies, please keep everyone safe by complying with Slow Down, Move Over  laws, which have been passed in all 50 states. When you see a vehicle stopped on the side of the road with hazard lights on, please slow down and if possible, move over a lane. That way tow truck technicians, law enforcement officials, utility crews, and stranded drivers can stay safe while on the side of the road.  

Before any long trip, AAA suggests getting an inspection to check key components such as the battery, fuel system, tires, brakes and fluid levels. Have your vehicle inspected by a trusted repair shop, such as one of the 7,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities across North America.

Be sure that your vehicle and passengers are ready for winter driving conditions. This includes having proper traction—snow tires, chains and/or tire socks. Bring a well-stocked emergency kit including a flashlight with extra batteries, first-aid kit, a basic toolkit, phone charger or power bank, warm clothing and blankets, and drinking water and snacks for all passengers and pets. Have enough provisions so that everyone will be safe and comfortable in case you get stranded for several hours, or even have to spend the night in your vehicle.

Share your itinerary with family or friends so that authorities know where to start looking for you if you don’t reach your destination.

Find all the info and tips at AAA.com/winterprep.

Forecast Methodology

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.

Historical travel volume estimates come from MMGY’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM. The PERFORMANCE/MonitorSM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. MMGY contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was finalized the week of November 17, 2025.

Because AAA holiday forecasts focus on domestic leisure travel only, comparisons to TSA passenger screening numbers should not be made. TSA data includes all passengers traveling on both domestic and international routes, whether traveling for work or leisure. Additionally, TSA screens passengers each time they enter secured areas of the airport, therefore each one-way trip is counted as a passenger tally. AAA focuses on person-trips, which include the full round-trip travel itinerary. As a result, direct comparisons of AAA forecast volumes and daily TSA screenings represent different factors.

INRIX Methodology

INRIX blends statistically grounded models with real-world road behavior to forecast travel conditions on the most heavily traveled routes across the U.S. during peak holiday periods. INRIX’s holiday traffic forecast combines pre-selected high-impact travel routes, rich multi-source traffic data, and a statistically robust linear regression model to generate detailed, time-specific travel delay predictions. INRIX’s data sources include a wide array of vehicle-based and infrastructure-based inputs. These include connected vehicle GPS data, mobile apps and navigation services, roadside sensors and cameras, and commercial fleet telematics. With expansive coverage, high temporal resolution, and historical context, this forecasting process provides essential insights for travelers, media, and agencies alike. 

Year-End Holiday Travel Period 

AAA’s year-end holiday travel period always includes two weekends. This year, that travel window is defined as the thirteen-day period from Saturday, December 20 to Thursday, January 1. 

About AAA

Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 65 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com. Drivers can request roadside assistance, identify nearby gas prices, locate discounts, book a hotel or map a route via the AAA Mobile app.

Find current fuel prices at GasPrices.AAA.com.

In Summary: It’s a very busy travel week with winter weather; prioritize safety by checking conditions and planning for delays. 

 

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill.

Saturated soils and steep terrain, especially in areas recently affected by wildfires, may lead to landslides and debris flows. This will be accompanied by high wind gusts along the coast, in the coastal mountains and some inland areas.

Stay alert and take precautions: Turn Around, Don’t Drown 

• Be aware of limbs that may have come loose in the windstorm and be cautious of falling branches. Make sure outdoor furniture and decor is secured.
• Listen for unusual sounds such as cracking trees or rumbling rocks.
• Watch for sudden changes in water flow or color.
• Travel cautiously, especially at night. Assume roads may be compromised.
• Do NOT drive or walk through flood waters.There are unseen hazards like open storm drains and metal debris, and cars can be swept away in even a few inches of water.
• Understand the additional burn scar risks.
• The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office urges you to be careful using alternative power sourcesduring power outages.

OEM also reminds Oregonians to prepare for future flooding and landslide risks:

• Sign up for emergency alerts at gov and ensure Wireless Emergency Alerts are enabled on mobile devices.
• Stay alert to changing conditions. Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, or gov/pqr.
• See flooding inundation maps for your area on the NOAA website.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from OEM and explore preparedness tips, including how to Be 2 Weeks Ready for any disaster, at Oregon.gov/OEM.

Highway 229 Landslide Update

Lincoln County Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active as we assist with the landslide that closed Highway 229 beginning December 12, 2025. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office continues to work with local and state partners to assess the developing situation and local impacts.

The site is still active and can be dangerous. Avoid the impacted and surrounding area. Ten homes were placed on evacuation notice. Occupants that remain in the hazard area were issued additional evacuation recommendations on December 12, 2025.

Three structures, including two homes, have been damaged in the landslide. Community members are encouraged to use extreme caution in and around the Siletz River to avoid risk of injury from debris and dangers associated with the heightened river level.  

There have been reports of debris washing up on the shores of the river, the Siletz Bay, and ocean beaches. Community members are encouraged to avoid climbing on or moving the debris. Any discovery of items with personal identification should be reported to local law enforcement.

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has reported it is unknown how long the Highway 229 closure will last and that geotechnical crews need time to assess the slope and determine next steps before a timeline can be established.

Please be aware that there is no nearby detour available. Travelers should avoid the area and plan alternate routes. We’ll continue to monitor conditions and will share updates as more information becomes available. Travelers are encouraged to check TripCheck.com for the latest road conditions before heading out.

Additional Information on the Landslide or to Inform Your Safety and Travel Plans:

• Weather: www.weather.org
• Road closures: tripcheck.com
• Lincoln County Emergency Alerts: sign up to receive messages directly – member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
• Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT): www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/news-releases.aspx

 

Oregon grows more Christmas trees than other states. Climate researchers want to keep it that way

As Oregonians prepare for Christmas, researchers are looking into how they can keep the state’s Christmas tree industry alive for decades to come. 

Oregon grows more Christmas trees than any other state in the country, selling 3 million trees in 2023 and contributing $118 million to the state’s economy, according to the most recent federal data available. More than half of those trees are sold in California, with other Western states, Mexico, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Panama, Singapore and Maldives among Oregon growers’ top markets, according to the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

The state’s mild summers and wet winters are ideal for growing popular Christmas tree species like the native noble and Douglas firs, but researchers are looking beyond native species to find trees that can withstand hotter and drier conditions.

Priya Rajarapu, an assistant professor and Christmas tree specialist at Oregon State University, works closely with growers and spends much of her time diagnosing sick trees.

“The two most significant problems that we have right now with climate change is one, keeping the seedlings alive after they are transplanted in the field the first year, and two, the older trees are more stressed because there is not enough water, which makes them prone to pests and disease attacks more frequently,” she told the Capital Chronicle.

Rajarapu is researching how species from Eurasia are growing in Oregon — a project that started under her predecessor, Chal Landgren, who collected Nordmann fir and Turkish fir seeds from Georgia and Turkey. Those trees are now growing at a 3-acre site she oversees in Aurora. So far, Rajarapu has found that they are more tolerant to drought and pests, which reduces the need for chemical insecticides. 

The species are a growing percentage of Oregon’s crop, and the research supports a vital part of Oregon’s economy that supports seasonal jobs in rural areas, Rajarapu said. 

“When you buy a real tree, you’re supporting a local Oregon business, and you should take pride in it, because we are the leading producers of the trees in the country,” Rajarapu said. (SOURCE)

BLM Launches “One Dollar, One Tree” Holiday Savings Across Local Public Lands

New fee reductions and expanded cutting areas offer meaningful savings for families this winter

The Bureau of Land Management has announced a series of holiday affordability measures that will help families save money, enjoy public lands, and support wildfire prevention efforts across Oregon and Washington during the 2025–2026 winter season.

Effective immediately through January 31, the BLM is reducing many personal-use permit fees to just $1, including Christmas tree permits and firewood permits. Local BLM offices are also opening new cutting areas in overstocked woodlands to provide families with more opportunities to gather their own firewood and Christmas trees, while also supporting forest thinning and hazardous fuel reduction.

 “Here in Oregon and Washington, families rely on public lands for tradition, recreation, and essential resources,” said Barry Bushue, BLM OR/WA State Director. “These fee reductions and expanded access make it easier for people to gather firewood and Christmas trees close to home, all while helping us reduce hazardous fuels and improve forest health.”

These actions align with the Trump administration’s mission to lower costs for American families and will contribute to national savings estimated at more than $9.4 million this holiday season.

Effective immediately, the BLM will:

• Reduce fees for personal-use Christmas tree and firewood permits.
• Increase household limits to up to 10 cords of firewood and up to three Christmas trees, with flexibility to adjust limits in areas with abundant resources.

These steps will help reduce household costs, expand access to local woodlands, and improve forest conditions by removing overstocked or hazardous fuels. The BLM will continue coordinating with community partners, tribal governments and local organizations to share information about permit availability and new cutting areas.

Residents can find up-to-date information on permit locations, cutting area maps, and safety guidance at: https://www.blm.gov/programs/natural-resources/forests-and-woodlands/forest-product-permits/oregon-christmas-trees

-BLM- The BLM manages roughly 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

 

Oregon Jobs Projected to Increase 6% by 2034

The Oregon Employment Department projects Oregon’s total employment to grow by 141,000 jobs between 2024 and 2034. These employment projections reflect modest job growth in the economy, although many additional job openings are expected due to the need to replace workers who leave their occupations.

In 2024, there were 2.2 million jobs in Oregon. The projected 6% increase in employment between 2024 and 2034 includes private-sector gains of 125,500 jobs, growth of 7,700 jobs in government, and an additional 7,400 self-employed Oregonians.

Beyond gains associated with the anticipated economic growth, another 2.4 million job openings will be created by 2034 to replace workers who retire, leave the labor force for other reasons, or make a major occupational change. Together, the number of job openings due to job growth and replacements will total nearly 2.6 million.

All broad sectors in Oregon are expected to add jobs by 2034, except for federal government, which is projected to decline by 3% (-1,000 jobs). The private health care and social assistance sector is projected to increase the fastest, growing by 13%. Private health care and social assistance is also projected to add the largest number of jobs over the next 10 years (+40,400 jobs). This growth is attributed to the aging of the state’s population, longer life expectancies, and an expected rebound in the state’s long-term population growth.

The construction and professional and business services sectors are projected to grow at the second-fastest rate, gaining 10% each. Growth in construction can be attributed to construction of buildings (+11%) and specialty trade contractors (+11%), which includes establishments that perform specific construction-related activities such as site preparation, plumbing, painting, and electrical work.

Growth in professional and business services is expected to be primarily driven by professional and technical services (+15%), which includes architectural and engineering services (+23%), computer systems design and related services (+10%), and legal services (-3%).

Many of the fastest-growing occupations are associated with jobs in the health care industry. Nine of the top 15 fastest-growing occupations by 2034 are in health care. They include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical and health services managers, and psychiatric technicians. Computer and mathematical occupations comprise three of the top 15 fastest-growing occupations, as demand increases for workers who can model, interpret, and analyze data in addition to demand for the development of AI solutions and their integration into business practices. They include data scientists, information security analysts, and operations research analysts.

A broad variety of career opportunities will be available across all sectors, as well as all job types. Four out of 10 job openings will require education or training beyond high school, but applicants will require education beyond high school to be competitive in six out of 10 job openings.

Occupations with the most job openings that typically require a high school diploma or less include fast food workers, stockers and order fillers, retail salespersons, cashiers, and home health and personal care aides. Those requiring a postsecondary certification or associate’s degree include bookkeepers, truck drivers, nursing and medical assistants. Occupations with the most job openings requiring at least a bachelor’s degree vary from general and operations managers to registered nurses, other educational instruction and library workers, project management specialists, and all other business operations specialists.

All areas of Oregon are expected to see job opportunities in the coming years due to economic growth and the replacement of workers leaving the labor force. The two areas projected to grow faster than Oregon’s rate of 6% are the Portland tri-county area (7%) and Central Oregon (7%). Slower growth is expected in the Columbia Gorge, Northwest, South Central, Southwestern Oregon, and the Eastern Six Oregon counties with 5% growth each.

Additional Information – More information on 2024-2034 industry and occupational projections for Oregon and sub-state areas can be found at www.qualityinfo.org/projections. 

 

No more federal income tax relief for wildfire survivors after Congress fails to extend exemption

Congress failed to vote on an extension of the 2024 Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act that was co-sponsored by Oregon’s U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden

At the end of 2024, wildfire survivors who had waited years to be paid in settlements over powerline-ignited fires got major relief from the federal government: they would not have to pay federal income taxes on the damages they were awarded.

But the short-lived Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act is coming to an end. The law expires at the end of 2025. Any wildfire-related settlement payments beginning in 2026 will again be subject to federal income taxes.

Congress failed before recessing Thursday to vote to extend the 2024 act via a proposal co-sponsored by Oregon’s U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden and a bipartisan group of western senators and representatives.

Their new bill would have made permanent the protections signed into law under the 2024 law. That law not only ensured federal income tax wouldn’t be applied to wildfire-related damages that were awarded from 2020 to present — over fires going back all the way to 2016 — but also ensured no income tax would be applied to any portion of those awards that covered lawyers’ fees, living expenses, lost wages, or compensation for injury, death, or emotional distress.

“The last thing Oregonians need when they’re rebuilding after a wildfire is to get clobbered by a big tax bill on their financial settlements,” Wyden said in a statement. Toby Riffle, a Wyden spokesperson, said getting federal income tax relief for survivors is one of the senator’s top priorities ahead of the next fire season.

In 2024, the Oregon Legislature unanimously passed Senate Bill 1520 ending state income taxation on settlements and lawyer fees for wildfire victims. The bill was championed by survivors of the 2020 Labor Day Fires.

The average amount that electric utility PacifiCorp, owner of Oregon-based Pacific Power, has been ordered by a jury to pay to survivors of several of the 2020 Labor Day fires in the Santiam Canyon is roughly $5 million, according to Cody Berne, an attorney for Portland-based law firm Stoll Berne who represents wildfire victims. PacifiCorp is appealing that order.

Under federal income tax rates, a $5 million award would leave the average fire survivor turning over about one-third of their PacifiCorp settlement to the federal government, Berne told the Capital Chronicle earlier this year.

A state-sponsored bill that would have required utilities causing a powerline-ignited fire to cover the cost of federal income taxes on settlements paid to survivors died in the final hours of the recent Oregon legislative session. (SOURCE)

 

2026 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike

View the Future Announces the 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike: A Community Commemoration of Resilience and Remembrance –Yachats, Oregon

View the Future is proud to announce the 2026 16th Annual Peace Hike, an honored community tradition that brings residents, visitors, Tribal members, and partners together in reflection, unity, and hope for the year ahead.

Held each January, the Peace Hike commemorates the cultural history and enduring resilience of the Tribal peoples who once lived in the lands we now call home. This year’s event continues that legacy, honoring stories of remembrance while celebrating the strength of community stewardship.Participants are invited to join the hike, learn from cultural speakers, and stand together in honor of the past, present, and future. Community members, families, and visitors are all welcome.

Event Details

• Event: 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike
• Date:  January 1, 2026 – 8:30am-1pm
• Location:  Yachats, Oregon

For additional information including the schedule of events and ways to get involved, please visit: https://www.viewthefuture.org/2026-16th-annual-peace-hike

About View the Future — View the Future is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting natural lands, restoring ecosystems, and ensuring long-term community resilience. Through conservation work, public education, and meaningful partnerships, View the Future strives to safeguard the places we love for generations to come.

Guided First Day Hikes set for New Year’s Day in 25 Oregon State Parks

Whether you prefer a moderate hike through a desert landscape or a paved wooded trail inside city limits, Oregon State Parks has a First Day Hike for you on New Year’s Day, Thursday Jan. 1.

Rangers and volunteers will lead guided First Day Hikes at 25 parks around the state with distances ranging from a quarter-mile stroll to a 5-mile trek. Hikes are free, but a day-use parking permit is required at some parks. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold online or at park offices.

America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.

“Across Oregon, First Day Hikes have grown into a beloved New Year’s tradition for visitors and staff alike. On January 1^st, park rangers and volunteers share stories of park history, geology, wildlife, and plants, as families and friends kick off the year together with an engaging outdoor adventure,” said Lisa Sumption, director of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration including Deschutes River, Elijah Bristow, Emigrant Springs, LaPine, Lukiamute, Oswald West, Sitka Sedge, and Smith Rock.

For any questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations needed to participate in a hike, please see the contact information on each hike’s webpage.

Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via X and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

 

Opponents of Oregon’s newly established transportation funding package submitted nearly 200,000 signatures to the Secretary of State’s Office on Friday, an action that immediately halts the forthcoming tax and fee increases pending verification of the signatures.

The initiative, spearheaded by the “No Tax Oregon” campaign, seeks to place a repeal referendum on the ballot for November 2026 after watching Gov. Tina Kotek keep piling on new taxes to Oregonians. Petitioners require just over 78,000 valid signatures to qualify.

The organization claims it exceeded that requirement within days and has continued to gather signatures statewide. The transportation package, which was approved by lawmakers earlier this year, encompasses a six-cent increase in the gas tax, elevated DMV fees even more, and a doubling of the state’s transit payroll tax.

Proponents assert that the revenue is essential for maintaining roads and sustaining transit services. Opponents argue that the additional costs—estimated to be around $600 annually for some families—would exacerbate affordability challenges throughout the state, and they assert that the pause prevents ODOT from generating new revenue until voters have the opportunity to express their opinions.

 

Oregon reduces barriers to birth control for Medicaid members

Oregon Health Plan members will be able to obtain birth control and emergency contraception without a prescription and at no cost starting Dec. 16

Starting Tuesday, Oregon Health Plan (OHP / Medicaid) members will be able to get over-the-counter birth control pills, including Opill, and emergency contraception at no cost at pharmacies in the state. Oregon Health Authority (OHA), in collaboration with the Oregon Board of Pharmacy, made this possible through a standing order, which allows pharmacists to provide these medications to OHP members and bill OHP.

“Access to reproductive health care should not depend on how much money you make or what kind of insurance you have,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “This step ensures that Oregon Health Plan families can get timely, affordable birth control. I will keep working to make sure every Oregonian can access the care they need to make the decisions that are right for them.”

In Oregon, these medications are already covered without a prescription for people with private insurance. Federal law, however, requires that all medications for Medicaid enrollees be prescribed by a licensed practitioner who is enrolled in the state’s Medicaid program. Oregon’s new standing order means that OHP members will no longer have to get a prescription to access these contraceptives at no cost.

“This change removes a real and unnecessary barrier to care,” said OHA Director, Dr. Sejal Hathi. “By allowing Oregon Health Plan members to get safe, effective contraception directly from pharmacies – without a prescription and at no cost to themselves – we are closing a longstanding gap between private insurance and Medicaid and ensuring all people in Oregon have greater control over their own reproductive health.”

Over-the-counter emergency contraception has been widely available for several years, and the FDA approved Opill as the first birth control pill for over-the-counter use in 2023. Previously, however, OHP members were required to pay out of pocket or else seek out a doctor’s appointment for a prescription to get these medicines covered.

Oregon’s Reproductive Health Equity Act (RHEA) requires that many health plans offered in Oregon, including all plans offered through the Marketplace, cover over-the-counter contraceptives at no cost. Some private insurance plans that are not subject to Oregon insurance laws may not include this coverage, so people with private insurance should contact their insurance company for more information about their coverage. Additional information can be found on the Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) web page.  

How OHP members can get access:

• OHP members can go to their approved pharmacy and request emergency contraception or Opill, and for it to be covered by OHP.
• Most OHP members get their benefits through a local Coordinated Care Organization (CCO); OHP members can call their CCO and ask which pharmacy to go to.
• OHP members not in a CCO (known as OHP Open Card), or who do not know which CCO they’re in, can call OHP Client Services for help at 800-273-0557. 
• OHP members will need to provide their OHP ID number, which is on their OHP ID card or CCO ID card, or by providing personal information that enables the pharmacy staff to search for and confirm enrollment in OHP. 

Additional information is available on the OHP member webpage.

 

Oregon Department of Human Services – New federal work rules for SNAP food benefits are now in place statewide in Oregon

The new rules specifically are for people who have Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) status. Here’s what’s changed:

– Oregon had previously waived ABAWD work requirements in 30 of 36 counties and all Tribal lands because of limited job opportunities. These waivers were scheduled to last until Dec. 31, 2025. The USDA ended them earlier.

– A recent federal law passed in July 2025 also changed who must follow ABAWD work rules. These rules now apply to adults ages 18–64 who do not have children under age 14 in their SNAP household. This is a change from the previous rules, which applied only to adults up to age 54 and households without children under age 18.

– In addition, the new federal law makes it so that some groups who were previously exempt now must meet work rules. This includes veterans, people who were in foster care, and people experiencing homelessness.

We have sent out notices to people who may be impacted. Contact us right away at 1-833-947-1694 or SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov if you have questions about these new rules or if you think they may apply to you and need help.

You can read more in this news release: https://apps.oregon.gov/…/snap-food-benefit-work-rules…

 

Winter Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon Coast Dec. 27-31

Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, Dec. 27 through Wednesday, Dec. 31. 

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 14 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 

This is a great time to see one of the world’s longest migrations, as the gray whales are traveling by our coastline,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales in 2023 when it looked like the population was rebounding. But since then, the population has declined to its lowest level since the 1970s. NOAA now estimates about 13,000 gray whales along the West Coast. 

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 park 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. Park 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 https://stateparks.oregon.gov/ 

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch on social media using #ORWhaleWatch.

 

OHA urges vaccinations as flu activity rises, holidays approach  

– As influenza activity increases over the next two months before its expected peak in early spring, health officials urge everyone to get their flu vaccine, particularly as people gather indoors to celebrate the holidays. 

So far, hospitalizations remain low. But the percentage of positive flu tests is on the rise.

“The flu season generally continues into the spring, which means flu activity will continue to increase for many months,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division. “That’s why it’s never too late to get the flu vaccine.”

Chiou added that getting vaccinated now is especially important. “People will leave Thanksgiving, not only with leftovers, but also with the flu. It’s not too late to get your flu shot, especially before the upcoming holidays. The flu shot is the best way to help make sure you don’t miss out on holiday festivities or get other people sick.”

Last year’s flu season in Oregon was the worst in the state’s recent history. OHA releases the latest information on the flu season in its weekly FluBites report. Information on flu activity can also be found on Oregon’s Respiratory Virus Data dashboard.

Flu is a contagious, respiratory tract infection caused by the influenza virus.

Symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy and runny nose, muscle aches, headache and fatigue. It can result in mild to severe illness, including hospitalization and death.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend seasonal flu vaccination for everyone ages 6 months or older.

Nearly 1 million people in Oregon have been vaccinated so far this year, which is about 5% lower than at the same time last year. The flu vaccination rate has been in decline for several years.

Certain groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant people and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk for serious complications from influenza.

The hospitalization rate is highest for people ages 65 and older, but flu seasons are unpredictable and even young and healthy people can develop severe disease.

The best way people can protect themselves and others is by getting a flu vaccine every year.

People can get the COVID-19, influenza and RSV vaccines by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic or federally qualified health center. Parents and caregivers of children can also search for a clinic by calling 211 or visiting 211info.org.  — This video reminds people not to let influenza take us out of the picture this year. 

 

Oregonians have to 12/31 to secure expiring federal home energy tax credits

The nonprofit Energy Trust of Oregon is encouraging residents to invest in heating and cooling pumps, solar panels, before federal money goes away

Oregonians have just more than a month to take advantage of federal tax credits meant to reduce by thousands of dollars the costs of buying and installing new energy efficient heating and cooling pumps, insulation, windows and solar panels.

Paired with incentives from the nonprofit, state-partnered Energy Trust of Oregon, the savings can cover half to nearly all costs, depending on the purchase. People who have made home energy efficiency upgrades this year, or who can complete upgrades by Dec. 31, can claim the federal tax credits.

To claim federal tax credits: Keep receipts from your purchase and submit an IRS form 5695 (Residential Energy Credits form) when you file your federal taxes for 2025. For more info go here.

Most of the federal credits passed in 2022 as part of the Inflation Reduction Act enacted under former President Joe Biden and were meant to expire in 2032, giving Americans a decade to take advantage of subsidies meant to spur investments in home weatherizing and clean energy upgrades. But congressional Republicans phased the credits out early in the tax and spending law they passed this summer.

Julianne Thacher, a spokesperson for the Energy Trust, said the organization wants to encourage Oregonians to take advantage of those credits now and to remind them that when they go away, there will still be state-level incentives they should not overlook.

Federal tax credits expiring at end of 2025 and Energy Trust incentives

Item	Federal Tax Credit (30% of total cost, up to cap listed below)	Energy Trust Incentive
Insulation	Up to $1,200	Up to $2.25 per square foot depending on property type
Windows	Up to $600	Up to $1.50 per square foot depending on efficiency rating
Heat and cooling pumps	Up to $2,000	Up to $4,000​
Heat pump/hybrid water heater	Up to $2,000	Up to $700 instant discount on select models at participating retailers
Solar panels	30% of cost	$2,500
Battery storage	30% of cost	Up to $5,000 depending on the customer’s utility

Table: Alex Baumhardt/Oregon Capital ChronicleSource: Energy Trust of OregonGet the dataEmbedDownload imageCreated with Datawrapper

“Energy Trust incentives will be here after the tax credits. We won’t be affected. We were here before the tax credits, and had very successful programs with folks installing energy-efficient equipment, so we expect that will continue,” Thacher said.

The Oregon Department of Energy also offers solar and heat pump cash incentives and grants that can be used towards the costs of equipment and installation after federal, Energy Trust and any other incentives are applied.

The Oregon Energy Trust was established by the state Public Utilities Commission in 2002. Although it’s an independent nonprofit, the commission oversees the trust’s performance measures, budget and planning.

Ratepayers of five of Oregon’s six investor-owned gas and electric utilities — all except Idaho Power — fund the trust. As part of utilities’ energy load planning, they send a percentage of ratepayer dollars to the trust, which is tasked with ensuring investment in activities that lower overall load demand and help meet state climate targets.

Part of that is standing up cash incentive programs to help businesses and everyday Oregonians afford equipment and infrastructure to lower their own energy consumption. The trust offers higher incentives for families with lower incomes and collaborates with 60 community organizations statewide.

Energy Trust incentives are available to all customers of Portland General Electric, or PGE, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas and Avista. Customers can go to a store and choose equipment prequalified for Energy Trust incentives, and that will deduct the credit from receipt at the point of purchase.

Customers can also work with contractors who have agreements with Energy Trust, and who will purchase and install the equipment and deduct the tax credits from the bill. Customers can also apply online at the Energy Trust’s website for specific credits after purchase, and receive a refund for the credit amount in the mail.

For Energy Trust incentives: go here.

The mix of state, federal and private and nonprofit subsidies for solar panels have led to major growth in residential solar in the last decade, and today about 25,000 homeowners in Oregon are generating solar energy, according to Energy Trust. This has ramped up as the federal credits are set to expire.

“The solar contractors we work with are very busy right now, and we’ve actually gone ahead and launched our new incentives for 2026 early, because folks who are looking to do a solar project starting now, they’re highly unlikely to complete that by year’s end. That’ll be a 2026 project.”

Focusing on efficiency in businesses and homes in Oregon, and setting climate targets that incorporate more solar, heat and cooling pumps and building upgrades, has made a big dent in Oregon’s gas and electricity use. Demand for gas would today be 9% higher and demand for electricity 16% higher if policies had not been enacted over the last two decades, the Trust found.

“Energy efficiency is the most effective, affordable way to meet climate goals, while also offering a ton of other benefits for customers and communities,” Thacher said. (SOURCE)

 

High Desert Museum Launches Schnitzer Prize of the West; Open Call for Nominations through January 1, 2026

Inaugural initiative honors uncommon collaboration and innovation in addressing environmental and conservation challenges of the American West with a $50,000 cash prize.

Bend, OR — November 5, 2025 — Today, the High Desert Museum announces the Schnitzer Prize of the West, an inaugural initiative launched in close partnership with Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold and Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation. The new Prize—the first of its kind in the region—will award $50,000 annually to an individual or a small group of individuals whose work addresses environmental and conservation challenges of the American West, with a particular focus on honoring innovation, social impact, and uncommon collaboration. The open call for self- and third-party nominations runs on the High Desert Museum’s website from today through January 1, 2026. In a moment when the American West—and the world-at-large—is confronting unprecedented ecological challenges, the Prize seeks to highlight innovative responses to urgent issues such as water scarcity, tribal rights and sovereignty, land-stewardship, changing climate, and more—offering models that can be replicated in other areas of the country facing similar pressures. Since its founding in 1982, the High Desert Museum has been dedicated to sharing the stories of the High Desert through wildlife, art, cultures, history, and interdisciplinary experiences, creating a shared connection and dialogue among its community. The Prize builds on this commitment to conservation and on past initiatives such as the Earle A. Chiles Award—which recognized significant “Win-Win” contributions to managing the High Desert region’s natural resources—as well as the Museum’s partnership with lifelong Portland resident and West Coast businessman Jordan D. Schnitzer, a dedicated steward of the local community and the region’s advancement. “The Schnitzer Prize of the West is an exceedingly timely and relevant effort to shine a light on the innovators, collaborators and visionaries among us,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D, Executive Director of High Desert Museum. “Their work demonstrates that we can look toward our future together even as we consider the economic and ecological challenges before us.” “The Schnitzer Prize celebrates remarkable individuals and teams, who through their uncommon collaborations, are producing actionable solutions to the legacy challenges we face in the West,” said Jordan D. Schnitzer, President of Schnitzer Properties and The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation. Administered through the High Desert Museum, Prize nominations and applications will be evaluated by an esteemed panel of advisors comprised of former tribal leaders, ranchers and farmers, water policy and river restoration practitioners, a poet laureate and renowned historian, directors of prominent academic centers that focus on the study of the American West and more. To learn more about this dynamic group, visit the High Desert Museum website. The Prize is now accepting nominations, and selected nominees will be invited to submit a formal application in early 2026. Nominations not selected in this inaugural cycle will automatically carry over for two forthcoming cycles. The Prize Winner will be announced in the spring of 2026. In addition to the $50,000 cash prize, the Winner will also receive a unique piece of art during an award ceremony in Portland, Oregon. For more information on the Schnitzer Prize of the West, nomination eligibility, and selection process, please visit highdesertmuseum.org/schnitzer-prize. About Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation — Jordan Schnitzer has a vibrant legacy supporting the High Desert Museum. He is the visionary and sponsor of the Schnitzer Prize of the West. Through the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, Jordan carries on the legacy of his late parents and their belief that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, the CARE Foundation and its leaders have given over $300 million to fund hundreds of nonprofit projects that touch lives and enrich communities. Schnitzer is also a prominent West Coast businessman. He is President and CEO of Schnitzer Properties, one of the West Coast’s Top 10 private real estate owners with offices in six Western states. Schnitzer is also an ARTnews Top 200 Art Collector globally and shares his vast contemporary art collections at no charge to museums and institutions and supports accompanying programming, educational opportunities and publications. About the High Desert Museum — The HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state. The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability. In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs. If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

Staying Informed During a Communications Outage: Best Practices for the Public

Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it’s vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:

  Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio

• Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
• Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. Tip: Pre-tune your radio to your local emergency broadcast station (e.g., OPB in Oregon or NOAA frequencies).

Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone

• Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
• WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if cell service is out, WEA alerts will not be delivered. This is why having backup methods like a radio is essential.

Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power

• Charge phones, power banks, laptops, and rechargeable flashlights before fire weather conditions worsen.
• Consider solar-powered chargers or car chargers as backups.
• If you are sheltering in place, a generator (solar or gas powered) is helpful.

Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance

• Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
• Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” Download your area in advance so you can navigate even if cell towers or internet access are down.
• When in doubt, call 511 or visit the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
• Don’t wait for a notification—if you feel unsafe, evacuate early.

Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info

• Phone numbers of family, neighbors, and local emergency contacts.
• Address of evacuation shelters, veterinary services (for pets/livestock), and medical facilities.
• Your own emergency plan, including meeting locations.
• Have copies of vital documents in your go-bag and take video of your property (inside and out) for insurance claims later.

If Calling 9-1-1 Over Wi-Fi or Satellite, Check Your Location Settings

If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.

• Update this emergency address when you travel or relocate—especially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
• Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you are—include your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.

Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage

• Register for OR-Alert and your county’s local alert system.
• Follow your local emergency management officials’ and bookmark resources like: wildfire.oregon.gov.

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

• Know the three levels of evacuation:
  • Level 1 – Be Ready
  • Level 2 – Be Set
  • Level 3 – GO NOW
• If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasing—take action even if you haven’t received an alert.

 Be Your Own Info Network

• Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities.
• Post printed signs with updates for those passing by.

In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points. Support and Restoration in Progress To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. *** Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.

Reconnect When Service Returns

• Once communications are restored, check official websites:
  • Oregon.gov/oem
  • Your county emergency management page
  • TripCheck.com for road conditions
• Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.

 Prepare for Delays in Restoration

• Communication may come back in phases. Damage to fiber lines or cell towers can take time to repair.
• Continue using backup methods and stay alert for updates via radio or in-person notices.

 Final Tip:

In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.  

Oregon’s Missing Persons

Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.

In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either. Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced

    Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline. It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com Call us at 5 41-363-7503  Or email us at Info@RogueValleyMagazine.com