FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: December 1, 2024

Apartment fire leads to suspicious death investigation

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police detectives are currently investigating the death of a Salem man in a fire at residential apartment building yesterday, November 30.

At approximately 2:45 a.m. Saturday morning, Salem police and firefighters responded to an apartment fire in the 1100 block of Chemeketa ST NE. Personnel located a deceased 38-year-old man in one of the units.

Due to the suspicious nature of the victim’s death and origin of the fire, the incident is being handled by the Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit as a suspicious death investigation. Separately, the cause of the fire is being investigated in conjunction with the Salem Fire Department.

No further information is being released in either case.

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CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. 30 Nov. 2024 – On Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, at about 5:13 p.m., Oregon State Troopers responded to a three-vehicle crash on Hwy. 213 southbound near milepost 10.5 in Clackamas County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Mazda MZ6, operated by Delfino Palacios Navarro (54), of Molalla, was traveling southbound when it crossed into the northbound travel lanes while attempting to negotiate a curve. The Mazda struck a white Ram CS5, operated by Ryan Lynch (37) of Oregon City. The impact caused the Ram to turn into the southbound lane and crash head-on into a silver Ford Escape, operated by Stacy Flintjer (60) of Mulino. 

The Mazda is believed to be the same vehicle associated with a driving complaint reported a few minutes before the crash. The driver of the Mazda (Navarro) was transported by air ambulance to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. 

The driver of the Ford (Flintjer) was transported to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. 

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation by OSP’s Collision Reconstruction Unit.  
 

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Molalla Fire Department, Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office, Clackamas County Medical Examiner’s Office, Life Flight, and the Oregon Department of Transportation. 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. Members receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. 30 Nov. 2024 – Oregon State Police responds to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Hwy. 213 near Mulino. 

On Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, at about 6:57 a.m., Oregon State Troopers responded to a two-vehicle crash on Hwy. 213 northbound near milepost 10 in Clackamas County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Ford Focus, operated by Lyndsey Gail Mohler (23) of Molalla, was heading southbound on Hwy. 213 when the driver lost control of the vehicle negotiating a curve and entered the northbound lanes. The vehicle collided head-on with a blue Subaru Crosstrek, operated by Shelby Ray Edwards (28) of Gresham, headed northbound.  

The operator of the Ford (Mohler) was declared deceased at the scene. 

The driver of the Subaru (Edwards) and a passenger were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation by OSP’s Collision Reconstruction Unit.  

OSP was assisted by Clackamas Fire, Molalla Fire, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation. 
 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. Members receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 29, 2024

NOW Showing: “Quilts & Christmas”

New Exhibit Open at the Douglas County Museum

            (Roseburg, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Chris Boice, Tim Freeman, and Tom Kress, in conjunction with staff at the Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History are pleased to announce that a new limited time exhibit at the Douglas County Museum festively titled “Quilts & Christmas,” is now open and encourage all our citizens, young and old alike to visit.  The exhibition will feature quilts, Christmas ornaments and toys from the museum’s extensive collection. The temporary exhibit is slated to run through February 2025.

The "quilt" portion of the exhibit will showcase a diverse collection of hand-stitched family quilts, each with its own unique story and craftsmanship. These quilts date back to the mid-1800s, with several having traveled along the Oregon Trail, a testament to their role in preserving warmth and comfort during one of the most significant migrations in American history. The “stars of the show” are four crazy quilts from the 1890’s to early 1900’s.  The exhibit will also highlight a stunning contrast with a modern "Graffiti" quilt from 2002, blending traditional quilting techniques with contemporary artistic expression. Hand-stitched quilts represent a rich legacy of ingenuity and provide interesting historical documentation from the earliest days of our country to the present.  These quilts, often passed down through generations, not only serve as functional items but also carry the stories and culture of the people who made them. In the earliest days of our country, quilts were essential for warmth, using available materials, often scraps of fabric, to create something both practical and beautiful. As an art form, quilting evolved significantly over time. Early American quilts were typically made with simple designs, sometimes in traditional patterns like "Log Cabin" or "Nine-Patch," reflecting the practical needs of pioneer life. In contrast, modern handstitched quilts may showcase intricate designs, personalized embroidery, and a broader array of materials. Each quilt tells a story—whether it's the history of a particular family, a cultural expression, or an artist's personal narrative. These quilts can also serve as historical documentation, reflecting the socioeconomic conditions of their time, the evolution of textile production, and the influence of changing fashion trends.  Today, both quilt makers and the public find inspiration in quilts, whether for their craftsmanship, their use of color, or their historical significance. Museums, exhibitions, and quilting communities continue to preserve and celebrate this form of artistic expression, ensuring that it remains an important part of our cultural heritage.

The "Christmas" portion of the exhibit will display a curated selection of antique and noteworthy Christmas ornaments and toys from the museum's extensive collection. Visitors will be transported through time, with delicate glass ornaments, handcrafted decorations, and vintage toys that capture the holiday spirit of past eras. These cherished items, some dating back to the early 20th century, offer a glimpse into the traditions and joys of Christmas celebrations through the years, showcasing the evolution of festive decor and the sentimental value placed on holiday treasures.  The exhibit will also showcase a selection of the 6,000 handmade ornaments created for the 2002 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. In addition, the exhibit will feature photographs capturing the journey of the tree, commemorating the year when Douglas County was chosen to provide the annual Christmas tree to the White House in Washington, D.C. This significant event in our history will be beautifully illustrated, offering visitors a glimpse into the pride and tradition behind this remarkable contribution to the nation's holiday celebrations. 

For more than 50 years, curators of the Douglas County Museum have been collecting, preserving and exhibiting natural and cultural history items.  Historically our local communities have relied on the mining, fishing, farming, transportation and timber harvesting to thrive in Douglas County.  Our museum links the connections between natural resources and these industries in their exhibits and cultural events to make history come to life.  From the snowcapped peak of Mt. Thielsen nestled in the Cascades Mountain Range, through the Umpqua River Valley, to the Coastal Mountain Range to the crashing surf of the Pacific Ocean at Winchester Bay, Douglas County traverses an amazingly wide range of elevations and environments.  It is Douglas County’s ecological diversity that is showcased in Oregon’s largest natural history exhibition – “The Land of the Umpqua’s”.

The Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History is located at 123 Museum Drive in Roseburg, Oregon (conveniently located off I-5 Exit 123 and adjacent to the Douglas County Fairgrounds).  It is open seven days a week from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.  It can take 1-3 hours to tour the museum depending on your pace.  The Lavola Bakken Research Library is open Tuesday through Saturday 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm. Admission is free for members, ages 0-4 are free, students 5-17 are $2.00, adults are $8.00, seniors and veterans are $5.00.  The "Museum Mercantile," the museum gift shop, offers the area’s leading source of books on Douglas County’s natural and cultural history, as well as a wide range of Oregon souvenirs and other great gift items including educational and historic toys. 

Click here for more information or to find out about volunteering at our Douglas County Museum of History & Natural History or call the Douglas County Museum at (541) 957-7007.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist, Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

The December 3, 2024  Lane ESD meeting of the Board will be held on the Lane ESD Main Campus and will begin at 5:30 p.m.  A reception will precede the Regular meeting at 5:00 p.m.  The agenda can be found at Lane Education Service District Public View - BoardBook Premier

The meetings will be conducted in-person.  Members of the public can click the link below to view the regular meeting: 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82246099036

Or One tap mobile :

    +19712471195,,82246099036# US (Portland)

    +16027530140,,82246099036# US (Phoenix)

Note regarding public comment:
Procedures for Oral Public Comment
The Board establishes the following procedures for public comment at Board meetings held in open session. The information will be accessible and available to all patrons accessing or attending such a Board meeting.

1. Public comment is limited to its designated place on the agenda and while time allows.
2. A person wishing to provide public comment, if an opportunity is provided by the Board during a meeting open to the public, do so as directed prior to the Board meeting.  A request to give public comment in-person or electronically does not guarantee time will be available.
3. A person speaking during the public comment portion of the meeting may comment on a topic not on the published agenda.
4. A person speaking during the public comment portion of the meeting should state their name, whether they are a resident of the ESD, and, if speaking for an organization, the name of the organization. A spokesperson should be designated to represent a group with a common purpose.
5. A person giving public comment is limited to an established time limit of three minutes. Statements should be brief and concise. The Board chair has discretion to waive time limits or extend the overall time allotted for public comment. Additional time will be allocated in a fair and equitable manner. If a person has more comments than time allows or is unable to comment due to time constraints, the person is encouraged to submit additional written comments to the Board through the ESD office as directed.
6. Inquiries from the public during the designated portion of the agenda will not generally be responded to immediately by the Board chair, and may be referred to the superintendent for reply at a later date. The Board will not respond to inquiries that are expected to be addressed during another designated portion of the agenda.

The Board will not hear public comment at Board work sessions.  Topics raised during the public comment portion may be considered for inclusion as agenda items at future Board meetings.

Written comment can be submitted via email to supt-office@lesd.k12.or.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

DATE: November 29, 2024

One deceased in single-vehicle crash on the parkway

Salem, Ore. — At approximately 7:30 a.m. today, officers and other emergency personnel responded to a collision on the Martin Luther King JR Parkway. 

Witnesses reported the driver of a pickup truck traveling southbound slowly drove off the roadway after passing through the intersection at Broadway ST NE. The truck struck a tree and traveled back onto the roadway where the vehicle stopped. Passersby attempted to provide medical aid to the unresponsive driver before the arrival of paramedics. 

The driver, 37-year-old Brett David Dhone of Canby, was transported to Salem Health where he later died. 

The Traffic Team’s preliminary investigation indicates Dhone suffered a medical event prior to the collision. 

The parkway was closed for approximately two hours between Liberty and Broadway STS NE with the assistance of an Oregon Department of Transportation traffic control crew.

The investigation into the collision is ongoing, and there are no other details available for release.

Today’s traffic incident is the twentieth fatal collision of 2024. In all, these collisions have resulted in 21 deaths, a marked increase when compared to the same time frame in 2023 which had 11 deadly crashes resulting in 12 fatalities.

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An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Angel M. Gomez, died November 28, 2024. Gomez was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Gomez entered DOC custody on August 16, 2024, from Multnomah County with an earliest release date of March 27, 2025. Gomez was 72 years old. 

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario that houses approximately 3,000 adults in custody. SRCI has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, intensive management, infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care, and an administrative segregation unit. SRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including a contact center, laundry, and sign shop. SRCI specializes in incentive housing, specialized housing, individuals with mental health/medical vulnerabilities, education and trades programs, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work programs. SRCI opened in 1991 and is the largest correctional institution in the state.

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DRIVING DROWSY

It is always important to stay alert while driving, especially during this time of year when weather conditions can rapidly become hazardous. Driving while drowsy or tired is especially dangerous. Sleepiness slows your reaction time, decreases awareness, and impairs your judgment just like drugs or alcohol. People who are very sleepy behave in similar ways to people who are drunk. Below are several safety tips to keep in mind before hitting the road. 

To remain alert and avoid drowsiness:

• Getting plenty of sleep the night before a long trip.
• If you are tired, find a safe place to stop and take a nap or have an alert passenger drive.
• Traveling at times when you are normally awake and staying overnight rather than driving straight through.
• Schedule a break every two hours or every 100 miles.
• Stop driving if you become sleepy. Someone who is tired could fall asleep at any time. Fatigue impacts reaction time, judgment, and vision, causing people who are very sleepy to behave in similar ways to those who are drunk.
• Avoid working all day and then driving all night.
• Drink a caffeinated beverage. Since it takes about 30 minutes for caffeine to enter the bloodstream, find a safe place to take a 20-30 minute nap while you’re waiting for the caffeine to take effect.
• Avoid sleepy times of day. Take a mid-afternoon nap and find a place to sleep between midnight and 6 a.m.
• Traveling with an awake passenger.

You are too tired to drive if you’re experiencing any of the following:

• Having trouble keeping your eyes open and focused.
• The inability to keep your head up.
• Daydreaming or having wandering, disconnected thoughts.
• Drifting from your lane or off the road or tailgating.
• Yawning frequently or rubbing your eyes repeatedly.
• Missing signs or driving past your intended exit.
• Feeling irritable and restless.
• Being unable to remember how far you have traveled or what you have recently passed.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon. 

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JCSO Case 23-2054

MEDFORD, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies arrested a south Medford man on child pornography charges yesterday morning, November 26, after a lengthy investigation. The suspect, David Lee Hurd, 54, of Medford, is charged with 10 felony counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. He is lodged in the Jackson County Jail.

The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) began the investigation in 2023 after a tip came in from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The task force served a search warrant in August of 2023 and seized digital devices from Hurd’s residence in the 3700 block of South Pacific Highway in south Medford. Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) forensically examined the digital devices for evidence of child exploitation.

SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, Oregon Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), as well as prosecutors from our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson and Josephine County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, Oregon State Police, and Medford Police Department. The case will be prosecuted by the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office. There is no further information available for release.

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ROSEBURG, Ore., Nov. 27, 2024 – Umpqua Community College has been awarded a $500,000 Manufacturing Workforce Ready Grant from the Higher Education Coordinating Commission. This grant supports the Career Ready Umpqua initiative. UCC received a notice of award on Oct. 10 to prepare rural students for careers in advanced manufacturing.

The grant will support the collaboration between UCC and local manufacturers and partners, including Orenco Systems, Con-Vey, Roseburg Forest Products, North River Boats and Roseburg Public Schools. Students from all grade levels through college will have opportunities to take part in professional skills workshops, scholarships, mentorships, competitive paid internships and workplace tours. The program aims to serve at least 100 students from rural and low-income communities within focused academic programs of mechatronics, engineering, welding, and forestry.

“Students will have clearer, well-supported pipelines from education to manufacturing workforce, in which they can earn family-supporting wages and contribute to one of the largest industries in Oregon,” said Danielle Haskett, dean of instruction.

The grant is part of a $200 million investment in education and training to advance a more equitable workforce system and increase opportunities for diverse workers, developed from an Oregon Senate bill named the Future Ready Oregon. Future Ready Oregon aims to strengthen Oregon’s economic competitiveness by removing barriers to education and employment, developing a diverse workforce, and supporting businesses’ needs for employees today and into the future.

About Umpqua Community College
Nestled in the beautiful North Umpqua River Valley, Umpqua Community College is the regional center for higher education in Douglas County, Oregon. UCC provides high quality college degree programs, workforce development, and community learning opportunities. For more information, please visit us online at www.umpqua.edu.

National Influenza Vaccination Week Pop-Up Clinics Around Douglas County 

Multiple free vaccine pop-up mobile events are planned for National Influenza Vaccination Week. Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians Public Health, Douglas Public Health Network and several rural fire departments, community centers and small businesses are collaborating to provide six pop up mobile flu vaccine clinics around Douglas County.  If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, please take advantage of one of these clinics. A flu vaccine can take the flu from wild to mild, so get your flu shot now! 

Monday, December 2^nd, 9:00-3:00 pm                      Glide Fire Station

Tuesday, December 3^rd, 9:00-11:00 am                     Glendale, 140 Molly Parking lot

Tuesday, December 3^rd, 12:00-6:00 pm                     Riddle Community Center

Wednesday, December 4^th, 9:00-12:00 pm               Scottsburg Community Center 

Thursday, December 5^th, 9:00-12:00 pm                   Elkton Community Center 

Thursday, December 5^th, 1:00-6:00 pm                     Sutherlin Fire Station

No registration is required, there is no charge for the vaccine and they will be available while supplies last.  

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Thursday, December 12, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. (PT). This public meeting will be conducted via teleconference. 

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/boardagenda_12_12_2024.pdf

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy, oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years. The Board meets at least quarterly. As active members of their communities, Board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI’s mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

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LINN COUNTY, Ore. 27 Nov. 2024 – Oregon State Police traffic stop results in recovery of stolen merchandise valued at more than $22,000.

On Nov. 25, 2024, at about 3 p.m., an Oregon State K-9 Trooper stopped a car headed southbound on Interstate 5 in Linn County for an equipment violation. During the stop and while engaging with the driver, the trooper observed signs of possible criminal activity. 

The trooper received consent to search the vehicle and discovered a large amount of unopened merchandise from various Walgreens stores within the car. The total value of the recovered property was more than $22,000. 

The investigation is ongoing and no additional information is available for release at this time. 

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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that protects Oregon's people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

The Oregon State Marine Board will hold a public hearing on December 4, in Medford, on proposed rules for boat operations on the Upper Rogue River (Fishers Ferry to Lost Creek Dam) in Jackson County. The hearing will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Rogue Community College Medford Campus, 114 S Bartlett St, Room HEC 129 A/B.

Written comments will also be accepted until December 20, by 12:55 pm. Comments can be submitted by email to .rulemaking@boat.oregon.gov">osmb.rulemaking@boat.oregon.gov or by U.S. Mail to Jennifer Cooper, Administrative Rules Coordinator, Oregon State Marine Board, 435 Commercial Street NE, Salem, OR 97301. Testimony will only be accepted by telephone on the day of the rule hearing.

Agency staff will compile all comments for the board to review before their next quarterly meeting on January 23, 2025. At that meeting, the board may make a motion to adopt, amend, or take other action on the proposed rulemaking.

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

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November 27, 2024

Media contacts: Tim Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Keep holiday healthy with proper kitchen hygiene

Prevent germs with four easy steps

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is encouraging holiday cooks to keep their families, friends and Thanksgiving guests safe from foodborne germs by practicing four simple steps to food safety: clean, separate, cook and chill.

The recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urge people to always keep hands and surfaces clean; avoid cross-contamination between foods; cook foods to the right temperature; and refrigerate leftovers.

The bottom line, said Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., state public health veterinarian and foodborne illness expert at OHA’s Public Health Division, is this: By taking a few steps and planning ahead, you can help keep the holiday season merry and bright.

“Foodborne infections from bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter and Clostridium perfringens can ruin a holiday gathering, especially if there’s an outbreak. But they are entirely preventable,” DeBess said. “In particular, leaving meat-based foods sitting out for several hours is a classic cause of C. perfringens outbreaks.”

Turkey and roast beef are common sources of Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can spread to other foods from unwashed hands and contaminated kitchen surfaces. In addition, according to CDC, Clostridium perfringens food poisoning results from eating improperly cooked and stored foods—for example, if the food sits out for an extended length of time before refrigerating. 

The three bacteria share two symptoms: diarrhea and stomach cramps, with symptom onset beginning between several hours (Clostridium) and several days after infection. Salmonella infection can also cause headaches, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite, and Campylobacter can also cause fever, nausea and vomiting.

To prevent contamination from these bacteria during holiday meal preparation take the following steps, according to DeBess and CDC:

Clean: Wash hands and surfaces often

• Wash your hands at least 20 seconds with soap and water before, during and after preparing food, and before eating. Always wash hands after handling uncooked meat, chicken and other poultry, seafood, flour, or eggs.
• Wash utensils, cutting boards and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item.
• Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water.

Separate: Don’t cross-contaminate

• When grocery shopping, keep raw meat, poultry, seafood and their juices away from other foods.
• Keep raw or marinating meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from all other foods at the bottom of the refrigerator; store raw meat, poultry, and seafood in sealed containers or wrap them securely so the juices don't leak onto other foods.
• Use one cutting board or plate for raw meat, poultry, and seafood and a separate cutting board or plate for produce, bread, and other foods that won't be cooked.
• Washing raw chicken, which is ready to cook and doesn’t need washing first, can spread germs to other foods, the sink and the counter, and can make you sick.

Cook to the right temperature

• The only way to tell if food is safely cooked to a temperature that kills germs is to use a food thermometer.
  • All poultry, including ground chicken and turkey, should be cooked to 165°F.
  • Whole cuts of beef, veal, lamb, and pork, including fresh ham, should be cooked to 145°F. (Allow the meat to rest for 3 minutes before carving or eating).
  • Fish with fins should be cooked to 145°F, or cook until the flesh is opaque and separates easily with a fork.
  • Ground meats, such as beef and pork, should be cooked to 160°F.
  • Leftovers and casseroles should be cooked to 165°F.
  • Check this chart for an even more detailed list of temperatures and foods, including shellfish and precooked ham.

Chill: Refrigerate promptly

• Never leave perishable food out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if exposed to temperatures above 90°F).
• Keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below and your freezer at 0°F or below, and know when to throw food out before it spoils. If your refrigerator doesn't have a built-in thermometer, keep an appliance thermometer inside it to check the temperature.
• Package warm or hot food in several clean, shallow containers and then refrigerate—it is OK to put small portions of hot food in the refrigerator since they will chill faster.
• If the food is exposed to temperatures above 90°F, like sitting in a hot car or at a picnic, refrigerate it within 1 hour.
• Thaw frozen food safely in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave – never thaw food on the counter because bacteria multiply quickly in the parts of the food that reach room temperature.

For more information, visit “Preparing Your Holiday Turkey Safely” and “About Four Steps to Food Safety”.

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Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire  responded to a fire at an abandoned home in West Eugene early Wednesday.  Firefighters were called at 5:08 AM on November 27 to reports of smoke from an abandoned home at 12th and Grant St.  Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire in the boarded up two story home.  Crews worked hard getting the home opened up to access the fire in the home that was filled with trash and in great disrepair.  There are no reported injuries and the cause is under investigation. 

This is not the first fire at this home or the property.  Firefighters were at a second abandoned house on the property earlier this month on November 5th for a warning fire set on the first floor. As noted in a release following a fire at an abandoned home on October 29, these fires are occurring in unsafe buildings where crews have to contend with human waste and used needles on the property in the course of their work.  

Fire crews responded to 3 motor vehicle collisions in the Sweet Home area today within a 3 hour time span. The first crash occurred at 4:30pm, on Main Street near the intersection of 23rd Ave. That crash was non-injury with minor damage to the 2 vehicles involved. The second crash occurred approximately 30 minutes later at the intersection of Highway 20 and Liberty Rd. That crash involved a pickup truck pulling a loaded horse trailer, and a small sedan. The driver of the sedan was extricated by firefighters and transported to the hospital by ambulance with serious injuries, but in stable condition. No other injuries were reported and the horses were also uninjured. The third crash occurred at approximately 7:20 pm on Highway 20 near the intersection of 55th Ave. That crash involved a full size pickup truck that struck the back of a smaller pickup truck which was traveling in the same direction. The smaller pickup rolled onto its top in the ditch, with both vehicles sustaining significant damage. During the crash a chain was thrown from one of the pickup beds, tangling in an overhead power line and bringing that live wire down. Pacific Power responded and cut power to the wire which was causing a significant hazard as bystanders were walking under it and driving over it on the roadway. Three occupants of the smaller pickup and the driver of the full size pickup were evaluated by medics but all refused transport to the hospital by ambulance. The calls were all handled by Sweet Home Fire crews, including 2 ambulances, 1 rescue unit, 2 Command Vehicles, and 1 brush truck. Fire crews were assisted by OSP, ODOT, and Sweet Home PD.

On November 26^th, 2024, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Jodie A. Bureta sentenced Jose Garcia-Rivera to life in prison with the possibility of parole after serving 25 years minimum for the crime of Murder in the 2^nd Degree with a Firearm.

Garcia-Rivera’s sentence is a result of a jury verdict that was received on November 20, 2024, in which the jury unanimously found Garcia-Rivera guilty of the crimes of Murder in the Second Degree with a Firearm, and two counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person.  This case was investigated primarily by the Woodburn Police Department and prosecuted at trial by Marion County Deputy District Attorneys Justin Barbot-Wheaton and BJ Park.

On Sunday, June 4^th, 2023, at 4 pm, Garcia-Rivera encountered his ex-brother-in-law, Noel Romero Orozco, at MegaFoods in Woodburn.  Both men were from Woodburn.

The grocery store was busy with people shopping before the work week.  Garica-Rivera shot Romero-Orozco 14 times in the back at close range with a 9mm handgun.  Testimony provided at trial stated that all gunshot wounds were from back to front.  The victim, Noel Romero-Orozco, died on scene. Garcia-Rivera shot Romero-Orozco while they were both in the self-checkout aisle within feet of bystanders, including a mother and her young daughter who were shopping for groceries.  After shooting and killing the victim, Romero-Orozco placed his handgun down and surrendered to a security officer. 

According to the Romero-Orozco, the victim said something (undetermined) that angered him.  Bystanders did not report an argument or anything out of the ordinary until the shooting began.

Deputy District Attorney Justin Barbot-Wheaton argued that this crime was brazen, completely senseless, and unprovoked by the victim.  It also endangered the lives of others in the grocery store, as well as shattered the safety of the community. 

Noel Romero Orozco leaves behind four children, as well as a father, mother, sisters and brothers.  The family and friends of Noel Romero-Orozco attended multiple hearings and days of trial. Multiple family members, including his oldest son, father, sister, cousins, a brother-in-law and his brother, provided victim impact statements to Judge Bureta prior to sentencing. 

The Woodburn Police Department was the primary investigating agency, with the assistance of multiple law enforcement agencies that responded to the scene.  Woodburn Police Detective Ellis, Detective Stearns, Officer Ponce, Corporal Chester, Sergeant Wingo and Officer Warner all played important roles within the investigation. 

The Marion County District Attorney's Office would like to acknowledge Woodburn Police Department's quality investigation.  They were assisted by Hubbard Police, Gervais Police, Oregon State Police, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keizer Police Department.  The Marion County District Attorney’s Office would like to recognize and thank all responding law enforcement agencies and the community partners that assisted in this investigation. 

JCSO Case 24-6421

ROGUE RIVER, Ore. - Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives are investigating a shooting that occurred today in rural Rogue River. At 11:16 AM, ECSO Dispatch received a call for a shooting in the 8100 block of West Evans Creek Road. The suspect is in custody and there is no danger to the general public.

JCSO deputies and Rogue River Police Department officers responded to the scene, took the suspect into custody, and rendered aid to the victim. Rogue River Fire arrived to take over medical care and transport the victim to an area hospital. The victim is currently alive and being treated for injuries at the local hospital.

Ashland Police Department detectives are assisting in the investigation. This case is open and ongoing. More information will be released further along in the investigation.

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The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR), through its consumer advocates, recovered nearly $1.6 million for Oregonians in the third quarter of 2024.

DFR’s consumer advocates field calls every day from concerned and confused Oregonians over insurance and financial issues from institutions that are regulated by the division. Advocates have extensive industry knowledge and they analyze complex issues.

In the third quarter of this year, advocates have helped recover $1,599,299. The first two quarters of 2024 saw $5,397,613 in recoveries, bringing the year-to-date total to nearly $7 million.

“This is money that goes directly back into the pockets of Oregonians,” said Andrew R. Stolfi, Oregon insurance commissioner and director of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services. “Consumers don’t have to work alone in trying to fix an error by an insurance company or financial institution. Our consumer advocates are here to help.” 

Here are a few examples of work DFR advocates did during the third quarter: 

• A consumer filed a complaint as they were being charged for a hernia repaired while they were under anesthesia for another surgery. Upon receipt of the complaint, it was found that during the provider appeal, an agent accidentally denied the claim in error as the consumer’s responsibility, resulting in an amount due for the consumer. The claim was then denied correctly as “provider responsibility” for not getting the appropriate authorization for a hernia that would heal on its own. This kept the consumer from being balance billed for $15,830.38.
• A consumer purchased travel insurance and suffered a medical event during the trip. A claim was filed, and the consumer provided the medical bills to the company and was reimbursed $453.80, which was the maximum coverage limit. The consumer then submitted additional bills that went above the maximum coverage limit, but the insurer did not communicate either acceptance or denial for about 11 months. The consumer submitted a complaint and the insurer acknowledged that there had been delays in communication, but there would be no further payments made as the maximum coverage limit was previously met. After a division consumer advocate had further discussion with the insurer, the company agreed to issue an additional $173.80 to satisfy the consumer’s expenses.
• A consumer submitted a duplicate payment through a money transmitter, and the company returned the duplicate payment to that money transmitter. However, the consumer did not receive the payment from the money transmitter. After the division’s involvement, the consumer was refunded $1,068.65.

“Our consumer advocates are highly skilled professionals dedicated to solving consumer challenges,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “Their expertise and commitment ensure that consumers get the help they need, resulting in meaningful recoveries throughout the state.” 

Anyone who may need a consumer advocate can call 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance questions and .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for financial services questions.

Here is the list of the consumer advocacy complaints through the first three quarter:

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

SALEM, Ore. - The Oregon Department of Forestry is now seeking nominations for the agency's 2025 Climate Smart Forestry Award. The deadline to submit a nomination is Dec. 31, 2024. This award recognizes landowners, land managers, researchers, operators, or other forestry professionals who use climate change-adapted practices, or develop innovative methods for carbon capture, retention, or reduced carbon release. New nominations, including self-nominations are accepted. Instructions and nomination form can be found on ODF’s website.

According to the Awards Selection Committee, the goal of this award is to recognize exemplary climate and carbon practices in Oregon. The Committee wants to encourage more landowners to adopt such practices. In March 2020, Governor Brown signed an executive order that highlighted that the state is experiencing an increase in frequency and severity of wildfires that endangers public health and safety and damages rural economies. The order directed agencies, including ODF, to prepare and plan for the impacts of climate change and to take actions to encourage carbon sequestration and storage.

From that executive order the Oregon Board of Forestry in the fall of 2021 adopted ODF's Climate Change and Carbon Plan. The idea for an awards program arose in response to that plan. 

According to the Awards Selection Committee, the awards are designed to showcase emerging best practices and encourage reductions in emissions and help forests and communities adapt and become more climate resilient.

Specific actions that will be considered for recognition under the award program include:

• Efforts to improve the climate resilience of forestlands and restore ecological functions
• Climate Smart forestry practices in growing and maintaining trees
• Wildfire management, response, and fire or smoke adaptation
• Carbon reduction or capture in forest operations, such as logging or thinning
• Innovative research or products that reduce emissions or increase climate resilience

Nominees may include universities, educators, consulting and research agencies, fabricators, forest operators, and private industry firms working on non-federal lands across the state. Anyone can be nominated who’s doing climate-related mitigation and adaptation work or research, and anyone can nominate them.

                                                                  # # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                  

UPDATE: November 26, 2024 | 3:30 p.m.

Suspect now in custody

Police investigate stabbing incident as a homicide

Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit detectives arrested a Salem teenager today for his involvement in the death of Riley John Adams, age 19. Adams was critically injured in a July 27 stabbing incident at Wallace Marine Park and subsequently died from his injuries on August 19.

During the investigation, Salem Police detectives learned the stabbing incident resulted from a spontaneous dispute amongst youth gathered at the Wallace Marine Park boat ramp that July morning.

Today, Salem Police detectives from various units, with assistance from the SWAT team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), served a search warrant at a residence associated with the 16-year-old male suspect in the case. The boy was detained without incident and lodged at the Yamhill County Juvenile Detention Center on the charges of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon, the knife.

With the only suspect in the case now in custody, all further inquiries about this investigation should be directed to the Polk County District Attorney’s Office.  

# # #

Originally published 08/20/2024 | 3:00 p.m.

Police investigate stabbing incident as a homicide

Salem, Ore. — The Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit is investigating a stabbing incident that occurred in late July at Wallace Marine Park in west Salem.

At about 2:15 a.m. on July 27, patrol officers responded to the call of a victim with a stab wound who was in the south end of the park. Officers found a young adult with multiple stab wounds and provided emergency medical aid. Paramedics arrived and transported the victim to Salem Health.

The victim is identified as Riley John Adams, a 19-year-old Salem resident. Adams remained hospitalized and in critical condition until his death on Monday, August 19. The incident is being investigated as a homicide.

Anyone with information concerning what transpired that Saturday morning and led to Adams’ death is asked to call the Salem Police Tips Line at 503‑588‑8477.

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On November 25th at about 9:00 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s detectives served a search warrant at a residence in the 500 block of N. Moss St. in Lowell. The search warrant stemmed from an investigation by the Lane County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, focusing on child exploitation.

The suspect, D’Angelo Ke’Shawn Ford, 25, was contacted in his vehicle at a separate location and arrested. A firearm was found concealed in the vehicle. Ford was lodged at the Lane County Jail on the following charges:

- 2 counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the 1st Degree
- 2 counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the 2nd Degree
- Unlawful Possession of Firearms

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office received assistance during this investigation from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Springfield Police Department, Oregon State Police, Cottage Grove Police Department, and the Oregon Department of Justice.

This arrest is part of an ongoing effort by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable members of our community. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are available at this time.

Portland, OR — Kick off the holiday season on Sunday, December 8 at Holiday Cheer: A Celebration of Oregon Authors. Visit with more than 60 local writers as you sip on hot cocoa, listen to carols, and get a jump on your holiday shopping!  

For 55 years, OHS has celebrated the state’s rich literary talents at this annual book signing event. This year, some of the Pacific Northwest’s most prominent authors will be at OHS selling everything from children’s books to guidebooks to mysteries to histories! View a full list of participating authors at ohs.org/holidaycheer.

To add to the holiday cheer, The Dickens Carolers will be strolling through the museum performing lively holiday songs from 1:30pm–2:30pm, and Santaland is back on view!  Visit this nostalgic vignette, which features items from the original Meier & Frank Santaland including Rudolph, animatronic elves, holiday decor, a model of the famous monorail, and even the famous Cinnamon Bear costume! Each year, our museum team adds a new “Easter egg” to the display; can you spot the difference this year?

Book sales at Holiday Cheer support the Oregon Historical Society’s mission to preserve our state’s history and make it accessible to everyone in ways that advance knowledge and inspire curiosity about all the people, places, and events that have shaped Oregon.

Holiday Cheer begins at noon and authors will be signing until 4pm. Admission is free to both the book sale and to visit museum exhibitions, with OHS’s galleries open until 5pm. In addition to Santaland, current exhibitions include A Fountain of Creativity: Oregon’s 20th Century Artists and the Legacy of Arlene Schnitzer and Crossing Boundaries: Portraits of a Transgender West.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For nearly 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view. 

Coos County, Ore 25 Nov 24- On Monday November 25, 2024, at 11:47 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on OR 42 near milepost 10.4, in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a BMW sedan, operated by Brandon Smith (32) of Coos Bay, was traveling westbound on OR 42 when for unknown reasons went into an uncontrolled spin, traveled into the eastbound lanes of travel, and collided with an eastbound Toyota Corolla, operated by Dana Salmon (32) of Myrtle Point.  Both vehicles came to an uncontrolled rest within the eastbound lanes of travel, at which time the BMW became engulfed in flames.

The operator of the BMW (Smith) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Toyota (Salmon) was transported to a local area hospital with serious injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by Coquille Police Department, Coquille Fire Department, Coquille Ambulance, and ODOT. 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

EUGENE, Ore. – A major shift in the landscape of distance running is occurring in the NAIA, and Bushnell Head Coach Kyle Will is at the forefront, helping to shape the future of the Marathon and its place in the world of collegiate athletics.

In 2021, the NAIA included the Marathon as an event within the men's and women's outdoor track & field national championships for the final time. Citing a growing number of issues surrounding student-athlete health and the difficulties running in June in humid climates, the event was first switched to a half-marathon in 2022 before being eliminated completely the following year. Coach Will comments, "The NAIA has always liked having the Marathon as an event and as an opportunity for NAIA distance athletes, it was just the dangerous conditions in Alabama heat and humidity that caused a change, and I believe that is for the best."

While completely reasonable and understandable, given all of the extenuating circumstances, this decision didn't sit well with a number of NAIA coaches and alternatives began to be discussed.

Coach Will was one of four selected for the NAIA Marathon Committee, which was organized last year to begin the process of keeping the Marathon alive in the NAIA. "Having run several marathons myself, I love the event and was thrilled to be part of setting this up," said Coach Will. "Our goal, since it was removed from outdoor nationals, was to make the Marathon a standalone event. We wanted to tie it to cross country eligibility in the fall, and begin the process of making it an emerging sport and proving it could work."

Thus, the first NAIA Marathon Classic took place in December 2023, ran as part of the Cal International Marathon, one of the ten largest marathons in the country and a top qualifying event for the Boston Marathon. Coach Will said, "Being a part of the CIM, our athletes get to run alongside international athletes, be part of a 10,000-person event and all that goes with that, while at the same time representing their school. I think it is a great thing and I am so excited to continue what we started last year."

And the CIM has been a very accommodating partner for the race. According to Will, "Our partnership with the California International Marathon has gone very well. They love having us and they have even made some changes to registration, result reporting, and more, in order to make things easier for us."

As a team sport, scoring works similarly to cross country, however a team needs three finishers to score instead of five. The first event was a rousing success, with nine men's teams and five women's teams, and the momentum has carried into their second year. CIM afforded the NAIA 100 spots, 50 for the men and 50 for the women, and those spots have been filled. Nine men's teams and eight women's teams will compete for the team titles and a total of 30 Universities will be represented.

Now in the second year of a three-year trial period, Coach Will and his fellow organizers are optimistic that the event will eventually gain Championship Sport status within the NAIA. "This initial period is our opportunity to prove the concept is viable, so we can then petition to be considered a full NAIA sponsored sport."

The marathon-as-team-sport concept is quickly giving the NAIA a unique edge. Coach Will said, "As a coaches body, we often talk about the differences between the NAIA and the NCAA, more from a recruiting standpoint than anything. Some things we wish were the same, like the championship distances in cross country, but some things we like to have a different as they give us an advantage. The Marathon is just that. It gives us a recruiting advantage to a certain degree, but it also makes us stand apart from the NCAA."
 
Currently, qualification for the NAIA Marathon, which takes place once again at CIM on December 8, include completing twelve weeks of training, averaging at least 40 miles per week  and athletes earn their spot based on their average distance over a pair of two-hour training runs.

The Beacons will have a competitor in the NAIA Marathon this season as graduate transfer Grant Kaminer (pictured) qualified to compete. Kaminer, who competed in the cross country season for the Beacons while simultaneously training for the longer distance, is ranked 37th in the event, but just 30 seconds separate runners 2-50.

"Grant has been killing the training," said Will. "He has done a few training sessions that show me he should run close to a 2:50. The first goal is to finish healthy and then from there we will see. I have been impressed with Grant as he has trained through some difficult personal challenges, balancing school, training, and student teaching and often having to do his training at 4:30 in the morning.

In his only season with the Beacons, Kaminer will look to break the school Marathon record of 3 hours, seven minutes, which has stood for 16 years. That isn't his only goal, however, as he aims to also qualify for the 2026 Boston Marathon. Coach Will said, "Grant is a prototypical marathoner. He does not mind running alone, in the dark, in the rain and the wind.  He just grinds it out day after day and that is what a good marathoner needs to do.  It is one of the most unforgiving events in our sport and one of the toughest mentally.  Grant is that type of runner, so I think he will do well and expect this will be the first of many."

BENTON COUNTY, Ore. 26 Nov. 2024 – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife division is asking for the public’s help to locate the person(s) responsible for the unlawful killing of two buck deer, each shot with a crossbow. The deer were found near NW Walnut and NW Witham Hill Drive in Corvallis. Investigators believe the deer were shot around Oct. 25, 2024, and Nov. 18, 2024. 

In Oregon, it is unlawful to hunt game mammals with a crossbow. If anyone is seen carrying a crossbow in the area or if anyone has information relating to this case, please contact OSP’s Albany Fish and Wildlife office via dispatch at 800-442-2068 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number #SP24-383408. 

Anyone with information may remain anonymous, and a TIP reward for cash or preference points will be offered for information leading to a citation or arrest.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators 
The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration among the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board. 

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.  

Preference Point Rewards
5 Points: Bighorn Sheep
5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat
5 Points: Moose
5 Points: Wolf
4 Points: Elk
4 Points: Deer
4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope
4 Points: Bear
4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling licenses or tags, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:
$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose 
$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope 
$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$300 Habitat destruction 
$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags|
$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)
$200 Game Fish & Shellfish
$200 Game Birds or Furbearers
$200 Spotlighting
$200 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:
$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity: 
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)
TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
For more information visit: www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx

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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that protects Oregon's people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

Nov. 26, 2024

Two new loan products provide competitive interest rates to help eligible Oregonians buy a home

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) recently completed a $163 million bond sale to finance first-time homebuyer loans through its Flex Lending program, which now offers two new loan products: FirstHome and NextStep.  

“FirstHome and NextStep continue OHCS’ mission of increasing access to stable housing by establishing more pathways to homeownership for traditionally underserved Oregonians, especially first-time homebuyers and veterans on low incomes,” said Keeble Giscombe, director of Homeownership at OHCS. “OHCS is constantly exploring innovative ways to get more people into homes throughout the state, whether it’s by changing how we fund development projects or improving existing programs like Flex Lending to make it easier for people to get a home.”

The FirstHome loan product incorporates elements of the traditional Oregon Bond Residential Loan program, which is being phased out, offering first-time homebuyers, veterans, and previous homeowners (if purchasing in Targeted Areas, which are defined by the U.S. Census) a mortgage loan with a below-market interest rate. This loan is designed to increase purchasing power and keep monthly payments affordable. 

Homebuyers may also receive a down payment assistance (DPA) loan of 4% or 5%, which can cover up to 100% of the borrower’s cash requirements at closing. This assistance may be used for down payment, closing costs, prepaid items, upfront borrower-paid mortgage insurance, and other allowable fees. 

The NextStep loan product is similar to FirstHome, but without a first-time homebuyer requirement and with more flexible qualification requirements. Income is capped at $125,000. 

Homebuyers interested in either Flex Lending product need to work with an OHCS-approved lender. First-time homebuyers are required to take a homebuyer education class through a certified housing counselor at one of the homeownership centers throughout the state.  

More information and a list of participating lenders can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/homeownership/homebuyers/Pages/flex-lending.aspx. Lenders who wish to participate in the program can visit https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/homeownership/lenders-real-estate-professionals/Pages/default.aspx. 

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)  

OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. Visit OHCS’ website for more information.

SALEM, Ore— 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.

Laviolette will lead the credit union’s technology innovation and strengthen information security for its members

PORTLAND, Ore., Nov. 26, 2024—OnPoint Community Credit Union is pleased to announce the promotion of technology and cybersecurity expert Damian Laviolette to Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer (CIO), after an extensive national talent search. He joins the Executive Team of Oregon's largest credit union, which serves over 576,000 members and manages $9.4 billion in assets.

As CIO, Laviolette will lead OnPoint’s information technology and digital banking teams, driving technology innovation to enhance member services and strengthen the credit union’s cybersecurity infrastructure. Laviolette has worked at OnPoint since 2022. He previously served as Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Before joining OnPoint, he served as Senior Vice President and CISO at Webster Bank and Vice President of Network Security Operations at Umpqua Bank.

“We are thrilled to have Damian step into this critical leadership role,” said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Damian’s deep expertise in information security and risk management, paired with his commitment to operational excellence, make him the ideal candidate to guide our technology strategy as we expand our digital services for members.”

Laviolette has over 30 years of experience in IT and information security across financial services, government and defense sectors. Throughout his career, he has built and led information technology and security teams responsible for innovation, transformation, operations, compliance, policy, audit and risk management. He also served 20 years in the United States Army in numerous roles leading technology and cybersecurity teams, ending his career as a Chief Warrant Officer in the Signal Corps.

He holds a master’s degree in information security and assurance and is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Laviolette and his wife are active in the community and enjoy hiking, traveling, and deep-sea fishing with their three children.

“I am honored to continue my journey with OnPoint, an organization that leads with integrity and a focus on enhancing the lives of its members,” said Laviolette. “Together, we will strengthen OnPoint’s technology foundation, innovate in digital banking and build on our commitment to cybersecurity.”

Laviolette’s new role will succeed OnPoint’s Chief Operations Officer position, currently held by Jim Armstrong. Armstrong will continue leading operations, payments and project management until his retirement in April 2025. Upon his departure, Laviolette will assume his responsibilities and build on the strong foundation Armstrong has established for OnPoint’s continued growth.

The OnPoint Executive Team is comprised of the following members:

• Rob Stuart, President/Chief Executive Officer
• Cirith Anderson, Senior Vice President/Chief Risk Officer
• Jim Armstrong, Senior Vice President/Chief Operations Officer
• Tim Clevenger, Senior Vice President/Chief Marketing Officer
• Patty Groman, Senior Vice President/Chief People Officer
• Bob Harding, Senior Vice President/Chief Commercial Officer
• Jim Hunt, Senior Vice President/Chief Financial Officer
• Damian Laviolette, Senior Vice President/Chief Information Officer
• Steve Leugers, Senior Vice President/Chief Credit Officer
• Tory McVay, Senior Vice President/Chief Retail Officer
• Wendy Beth Oliver, Senior Vice President/Chief Legal Officer

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 576,000 members and with assets of $9.4 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

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Households with qualifying incomes have access to enhanced discounts on their natural gas bills

Portland, Ore. – NW Natural customers in Oregon with qualifying incomes can now save up to 85% on their natural gas bills - more than double the previous highest discount available.

These discounts provide impactful, ongoing help with NW Natural bills that can be a difference-maker for Oregon families. Income-qualified customers are eligible for NW Natural bill discounts on top of any other energy assistance they may already be receiving from NW Natural or local community action agencies. Enhanced discounts started November 1, 2024. Previously, customers could receive bill discounts of up to 40%. 

“By more than doubling the discounts available for Oregon’s most vulnerable households, we’re responding to the realities of rising costs that families are facing,” Cecelia Tanaka, NW Natural Energy Equity Program Manager, said. “The Bill Discount program is one of several resources the company is proud to offer to help families save money and stay comfortable, including ways to manage payments and access free home energy improvements.”

For a family of four in Oregon, discount levels are:

Household income                Discount

$17,697 or less                         85%
$17,698-$35,395                      50%
$35,396-$53,092                      30%
$53,093-$70,970                      15%

Eligibility is determined by household size and annual gross income; discounts are available for customers with gross household incomes at or below 60% of area median income. 

To learn more about income-based bill discount programs in Oregon and Washington, visit nwnatural.com/billdiscount or call 503-226-4211 or 800-422-4012 Monday-Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Income and household information is private and protected. Please allow 30 days for your application to be processed.

For more options to save money, use less energy, or payment plan options, visit nwnatural.com/paymentassistance.

About NW Natural 
NW Natural is a local distribution company that currently provides natural gas service to approximately two million people in more than 140 communities through more than 800,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington with one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation. NW Natural owns and operates 21 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity in Oregon. NW Natural, a part of Northwest Natural Holding Company, (NYSE: NWN) (NW Natural Holdings), is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and has been doing business for 165 years. NW Holdings owns NW Natural, NW Natural Renewables Holdings (NW Natural Renewables), NW Natural Water Company (NW Natural Water), and other business interests. We have a longstanding commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and taking care of our employees and communities. Learn more in our latest ESG Report.

Sweet Home Fire responded to a structure fire on Mt.View Rd today. The call to 911 was placed at 12:30 pm. The first unit arrived on scene within 4 minutes. That unit, a command vehicle which also carries a water tank and pump, was utilized to begin a defensive attack on the fire from the exterior of the building until other units arrived. Within minutes an engine, a medic unit, and a ladder truck were on scene, as well as a second Chief Officer who acted as the scene safety officer. The engine company made entry into the structure knocking the fire down, then requesting removal of a rollup door in order to remove a classic vehicle from the structure to salvage it from any further damage from heat and firefighting operations. That vehicle, a 1931 Ford Model A was removed from the structure, but unfortunately it had already sustained damage. The fire was knocked down by 12:47 pm and crews then worked to overhaul the structure to ensure that the fire was completely extinguished. In total there were 12 personnel on scene, all from Sweet Home Fire. Also on scene were officers from Sweet Home Police, and personnel from the City of Sweet Home Public Works who assisted with traffic control. Bystanders, including both a former Sweet Home Fire Chief, and a former Sweet Home Police Chief also assisted crews at the scene. Damage to the structure and contents are estimated to be in excess of $30,000. The cause of the fire was determined to be unintentional, resulting from combustible materials too close to a wood burning stove. There were no injuries reported.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 22 , 2024

Notice of Virtual Meeting

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)

Behavioral Health and Housing Subcommittee

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

(Douglas County, OR) The next meeting for the Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council’s (LPSCC) – Behavioral Health and Housing Subcommittee will take place on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 11:30 am via a virtual conference format.

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch or listen to the meeting via video or by phone. For information on how you can watch or listen to this meeting, please see the agenda, or contact Koree Tate at ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov or call (541) 957-7790.

The meeting agenda is attached and can also be found at www.douglascountyor.gov.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Program Contact: Koree Tate, Programs and Partnership Coordinator | Douglas County Juvenile Department | Phone: (541) 957-7790 | Email: ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov

Just before midnight on November 24th, a Lane County Sheriff’s deputy observed a gray 2007 Dodge pickup driving south on I-5 from Goshen at a high rate of speed. A deputy assigned to Creswell attempted a traffic stop as the vehicle passed through the area at over 90 miles per hour, and a pursuit ensued. The deputy deployed his patrol car’s MobileSpike system, which began a controlled deflation of a tire on the pickup to slow its speed.

The driver, Jack Daniel Bates, 49, of Oregon City, pulled over after exiting the freeway onto Saginaw Road. The deputies observed signs of impairment. After investigating, Bates was arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail for DUI, Driving While Suspended - Felony, and Attempt to Elude by Vehicle.

November 25, 2024

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Fees for online, phone-ordered vital records to increase Jan. 1

Additional $4.25 in fees will be charged for orders placed through VitalChek; fees for records ordered in person, by mail or by using drop box won’t go up

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Center for Health Statistics at Oregon Health Authority is raising fees on orders for certified copies of vital records placed online and by phone. The $4.25 fee increases go into effect Jan. 1.

The Center for Health Statistics — also known as Oregon Vital Records and based at OHA’s Public Health Division — contracts with VitalChek to take and review orders for certified copies of vital records placed online and over the phone. VitalChek processes the credit payments, provides identity authentication services, and reviews order to ensure customer are eligible to receive vital records as required by law.

Jennifer Woodward, Ph.D., state registrar and Center for Health Statistics manager, said VitalChek has not increased these fees since 2013.

“The fee adjustment will help cover increasing business costs that all businesses have seen nationwide,” she said. “The increased fees will provide VitalChek the resources needed to service that higher volume and continue to provide good customer service.”

Starting Jan. 1, the total fee for using a credit card over the phone will increase from $44.95 to $49.20; the total cost for online orders increases from $43.25 to $47.50. The costs for both options include VitalChek’s basic credit card processing fee, which is $13.20 for phone orders and $11.50 for online orders; $4 for VitalChek’s instant authentication service; $25 for a certificate; and $7 for expedited delivery. 

The online and phone ordering services fees charged by VitalChek only go to VitalChek. None of the fees, or the $4.25 fee increase, are directed to the Center for Health Statistics. The vital records fees that are charged for certificates and for expedite processing of orders are not changing.

For its fees, VitalChek provides the following services to its customers:

• Call center services 24/7 to take phone orders for certificates.
• Website for online orders for certificates at VitalChek.com.
• Credit card processing and automatic refunds if needed.
• Initial review of orders to make sure orders are complete.
• Initial eligibility review to make sure customers are eligible to receive a vital record under Oregon law.
• Identity authentication quiz (Instant Authenticate) to confirm identity of customer as required under Oregon law.
• Follow up with customers if additional information is missing.
• Review of all documents before sending orders to the Center for Health Statistics for final review and processing.

Those needing vital records have other options that don’t require paying the extra online or phone ordering fees. They include ordering in person at the Portland State Office Building (PSOB) in Northeast Portland, by mail, or by using the drop box at PSOB. The address for PSOB is 800 NE Oregon St., Portland, 97232.

Visit www.HealthOregon.org/chs to learn more about the fees for the various ways to order a vital record through the state vital records office.

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PR 23-24                                                         

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
                                                            FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, Nov. 25, 2024
                                          CONTACT: Maryam Habibi, BPA, 503-230-4413 or 503-230-5131

BPA celebrates 15 years of energy efficiency with the Energy Smart Industrial Program 

Portland, OR – The Bonneville Power Administration celebrates the 15th anniversary of its Energy Smart Industrial program, highlighting its profound impact on the industrial sector and pivotal role in advancing energy efficiency across the Pacific Northwest. The program has been instrumental in helping businesses grow, compete and meet the region’s ambitious energy conservation targets.

"The ESI program has transformed how industries view and manage their energy consumption," said Jamae Hilliard Creecy, BPA's Vice President of Energy Efficiency. "Over the past 15 years, BPA has helped utilities to build strong, long-term relationships with their key industrial-end users, paving the way for sustained energy savings, operational improvements with facilities receiving several other non-energy benefits."

In the past 15 years, the program has completed over 7,000 projects focused on industrial process, system, and device-level measures, resulting in over 240 average megawatts in first-year energy savings—enough to power 175,000 Northwest homes.

As the Pacific Northwest prepares to retire over 2,000 aMW of coal generation while integrating a variety of energy resources, BPA’s commitment to industrial energy efficiency remains unwavering. By leveraging the expertise and collaboration of utilities, industries, and regional stakeholders, the ESI program is set to lead the region in achieving greater energy savings, by implementing energy management practices and supporting energy-related climate and national decarbonization goals.

Learn more about the program benefits and the exceptional participation rate in the BPA Newsroom.


About BPA The Bonneville Power Administration is a federal non-profit power marketing administration that delivers reliable, low-cost and carbon-free hydropower produced in the Columbia River Basin to communities across the Northwest. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage transmission lines and administers one of the largest, most comprehensive fish and wildlife conservation programs in the United States. A leader in promoting energy efficiency, BPA has saved more than 2,500 average megawatts of energy since 1980. More information about these and other activities is available on our Media Relations page.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 25, 2024) — Feeling seasonal stress? As fall and winter arrive, shorter days, colder weather and the approaching holidays can increase feelings of anxiety and fatigue. Global events that can feel out of our control add to the pressure, making it more important than ever to prioritize mental health and find ways to stay grounded this season.

To help navigate these challenges, we are offering interviews with Maggie Earanky, LCSW, Behavioral Health Consultant with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, who will share practical tips for maintaining mental wellbeing and winter wellness.

"It's common for our mood to dip as the days get shorter and the weather turns colder, which is why it's so important to focus on our mental health during this time," says Earanky. "Between the changing seasons, holiday stress, and everything happening in the world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But the good news is, there are simple things we can do to feel more balanced and resilient – whether it's connecting with others, getting outside for some fresh air, or taking a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness. These small steps can really make a difference in how we navigate the challenges of this time of year."

Tips to stay mentally calm and healthy as we approach fall and winter:

• Limit news consumption: Set specific times to check updates to avoid becoming overwhelmed by constant information.
   
• Practice mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises to help center your thoughts and reduce anxiety.
   
• Stay connected: Reach out to friends and family to discuss your feelings. Sharing thoughts can help alleviate stress.
   
• Engage in physical activity: Exercise is proven to reduce anxiety, so find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s walking, yoga, or dancing.
   
• Focus on what you can control: Shift your focus from uncontrollable events to actions you can take, such as volunteering for a cause you believe in.

Interviews available
Maggie Earanky, LCSW, Behavioral Health Consultant with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for Zoom interviews with media on Tuesday, Nov. 26 btwn. 1-3 p.m. Contact en.a.vitt@kp.org">Karen Vitt to schedule.

Maggie Earanky is prepared to discuss:

• How seasonal changes, shorter days and colder weather affect mental health
• The impact of the holidays and global events on stress levels
• The negative health consequences of stress and anxiety
• Effective ways to manage anxiety and stress during fall and winter
• The importance of prioritizing mental health in times of heightened stress
• Tips for maintaining social connections and engaging in physical activity to reduce anxiety

ABOUT KAISER PERMANENTE
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.5 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, please visit: about.kaiserpermanente.org

Thanksgiving is a peak time for home cooking fires in the U.S.

[PORTLAND, NOVEMBER 25, 2024] — The two most common days for cooking fires in the United States are Thanksgiving and the day before. Cooking causes an average of 158,400 home fires per year, which is 44% of all home fires in the United States. The American Red Cross, Cascades Region, offers safety steps everyone can follow if they will be preparing their family’s Thanksgiving feast.

“Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, home fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths,” said Jonathan Seibert, Red Cross Regional Disaster Officer. “Most happen because people leave cooking food unattended. We want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable holiday, so please don’t leave the kitchen while you’re cooking.”

COOKING SAFETY TIPS Follow these safety tips and visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including a fire escape plan to practice with your family.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food.
• Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
• Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
• Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
• Keep anything that can catch on fire — potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains — away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.
• Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
• Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen.
• Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all stoves, ovens and small appliances are turned off.

Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year. If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your local Red Cross for more information. 

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 2,212 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires. 

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and is the primary blood supplier to 65 hospitals throughout Washington and Oregon; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    
Media Hotline: 503-813-6018  

corrects date

PORTLAND, OR (Nov. 25, 2024) – Heading into the holiday season, Pacific Power is reminding customers to be vigilant about fraudulent communications from scammers posing as utility representatives. This activity tends to increase during this time of year.

Customers can protect themselves from these types of schemes by being aware of the following facts:

• Scammers will often tell you that your service is scheduled to be interrupted in the next 30-60 minutes.

Fact: Pacific Power will not contact any customer demanding immediate payment to avoid disconnection of service the same day.

• Fraudsters may ask you to purchase a prepaid card and tell them the card information over the phone.

Fact: Pacific Power does not ask customers to make payments by purchasing a prepaid card. You and other customers can always choose how you would like to make your payments.

• Be suspicious of anyone who approaches you by phone, email, text or in person and demanding on-the-spot payment.

Fact: Pacific Power will not demand immediate payment for damaged or broken electrical equipment or any other service.

• If you receive one of these calls, ask the caller to state your account number and compare it with the number listed on your bill.

Fact: Pacific Power customer service employees will always have your correct account number.

• Scammers increasingly have used text messages as a means of targeting victims.

Fact: Pacific Power will not demand payment via text message. Pacific Power encourages customers to set up their online billing profile at Pay My Bill (pacificpower.net) where they can pay bills and review statements.

Scammers may use a sophisticated deceptive tactic that makes it appear to caller ID systems that the call is coming from Pacific Power when it is not. Hang up and call Customer Service directly.

Remember, if you still have concerns about the legitimacy of a call, you can always call our published customer service number, 1-888-221-7070. Pacific Power is asking customers to report information about any scam calls received, including the phone number the person is calling from and any information that may help to track down the fraudsters.  

About Pacific Power

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit PacificPower.net.     

Waste Wise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—is back with its third “Simplify the Holidays” campaign.

The campaign, which started in 2022, is produced by the Center for Biological Diversity and has again been adopted by the County. “Simply the Holidays” encourages residents and businesses to reimagine how they view and participate in the holiday season to inspire joy while curbing waste. 

The campaign runs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day and includes earth-friendly gift ideas and a holiday leftovers recipe contest. 

“The leftover recipe contest was a fun addition to the campaign last year,” said Lane County Waste Reduction Outreach Coordinator Daniel Hiestand. “We had many great entries, and I’m excited to see what culinary creativity our residents submit this year.”

Recipes can be submitted on the County’s new website at wastewiselane.org/holiday, where they will also be published. Those who share recipes will be automatically entered into a prize drawing, with contest winners announced on January 9.

Prizes include Lion & Owl and BRING gift certificates, free enrollment in Oregon State University Extension Master Food Preserver workshops, and a collection of sustainable products from Main Street Market.

Follow the campaign on Waste Wise Lane County’s social media pages @WasteWiseLaneCounty on Facebook and Instagram. 

Food Waste Facts

• Last year, ReFED estimated that Americans would waste 312 million pounds of food during Thanksgiving. This figure would have produced an amount of carbon dioxide equivalent to driving a car 73,109 times around the Earth’s equator. 
• Per ReFED, $2.08 worth of food was wasted per person during the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday, which was more than $20 per 10-person dinner.
• Residents in Eugene, Veneta, and Springfield can place food waste in their curbside yard waste bins. 

About Waste Wise Lane County

Waste Wise Lane County— a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.

About Simplify the Holidays

Simplify the Holidays is an award-winning program of the Center for Biological Diversity. Simplify the Holidays seeks to empower individuals and families to be more conscious of the impacts of holiday traditions and, in doing so, reconnect with meaningful and lasting celebrations. Learn more at simplifytheholidays.org.

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MONMOUTH, Ore. –Western Oregon University, in collaboration with the Monmouth Business Association will host the 57th annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 6, a beloved event that brings joy and unity to campus and the community. This year’s ceremony promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend. The lighting of the magnificent 123-foot sequoia tree will mark the beginning of the holiday season, creating a magical atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of the season.

The holiday parade starts at the Monmouth Public Library at 6 p.m. and concludes on Western’s campus in front of the sequoia tree for the lighting. Following the tree lighting, activities will take place in the Werner University Center for all ages such as photos with Santa, cookie decorating, coloring, and the Monmouth Merry craft market (the market opens at 5 p.m.) with over 30 vendors. Abby’s House is also hosting its annual silent auction that evening, where proceeds will support the services they provide to students. These activities have become cherished traditions that create lasting memories for all. 

Students, faculty, staff, alumni, community members, and the public are all invited to participate in the celebration.

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About Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.