The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com
Friday, February 14, 2025
Oregon Beach Weather
Small Craft Advisory Issued: 7:37 AM Feb. 14, 2025 – National Weather Service
...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 AM PST SATURDAY... * WHAT...West winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt and seas 12 to 17 ft at 16 seconds. Winds ease this afternoon and evening, but seas remain steep. * WHERE...All areas, though the highest seas will be south of Cape Arago. * WHEN...Until 4 AM PST Saturday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds and/or steep seas could capsize or damage smaller vessels. * View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks
Last chance to purchase Crab Krack tickets for THIS Sunday, doors open at 4pm. We need to report the final number of tickets to the Agate Beach Best Western chef tomorrow morning. We are thrilled to have Representative David Gomberg as our auctioneer, A Whole Lotta Louis as the night’s entertainment, and over 50 local donated items for our silent/live auctions. Big thank you to the local fishermen and Pacific Seafoods for the donated crab to support your local museums! Funds from this fun (and delicious) night go toward the general operations of our two museums and research library and exhibits and programming. Click below for more information on instructions on purchasing tickets! https://oregoncoasthistory.org/crabkrack/
Coos Bay Police Launches Online Crime Reporting Tool
The Coos Bay Police Department (CBPD) recently launched a new online crime reporting tool on the CBPD website called MyPD Connect. MyPDConnect will allow users to quickly and easily make an online report to the CBPD.
MyPD Connect accepts online reports of:
• Theft
• Identity Theft
• Fraud, Scams, and Forgery
• Criminal Mischief and Vandalism
• Abandoned Vehicles
• Anonymous Crime or Drug Activity Tips
MyPD Connect guides users through the information needed to make a police report, such as the location of the incident and victim information. Users can also upload documents, photos, or videos to their report. After the report has been submitted and accepted by a CBPD officer, users will get an additional message with a log or case number, or a reply that the officer needs additional information.
MyPD Connect should not be utilized to report in-progress crimes or crimes with identifiable suspects.
Those crimes should continue to be reported to the CBPD at 541-269-8911 EXT 1 or 9-1-1 if there is an emergency.
To make a report to CBPD via MyPD Connect visit: https://coosbaypd.mypdconnect.com or text “Report” to 541-759-7802
Astoria Scandinavian Midsummer Festival Oregon — Saturday – February 15 – the Suomi Hall Nordic Winter Market!
Come early if you want the Pannukakku Breakfast. The auxiliary is making more this year but last year it sold out before the market was over. See your friends and enjoy a break from the winter weather. The roads should be better by then and it will be nice to get out. Support heritage in Astoria!
Curry County Board of Commissioners Investigating Missing Funds
Curry County’s finance director used a scatalogical expletive to describe the knot she and the county treasurer had to untangle to answer a federal inquiry about unaccounted for COVID relief dollars.
Keina Wolf told commissioners Wednesday she and Curry County Treasurer Nick Vicino spent the final hours of 2024 addressing an email from the US Department of Treasury stating that out of a total of about $4.4 million in American Rescue Plan money, only $1.734 million had been accounted for.
Wolf, who became Curry County’s finance director in February 2024, had taken exception to a public commenter who asked how she could have missed the un-accounted for balance of about $2.7 million.
“There were dozens of transactions that were not accounted for that we had to write off,” she said, placing the blame on her predecessor and the previous treasurer. “That is not my fault. I take no responsibility to the prior people in the department that had the inability to do their jobs. Or maybe they just didn’t give a damn one way or the other. That’s what happened.”
But the county’s previous treasurer, David Barnes said the Treasurer’s Office isn’t responsible for managing grants or reporting them. When Curry County first received ARP dollars, then-finance director Brad Rueckert administered that account until he left and Frank Jerome became finance director, Barnes told Redwood Voice Community News on Monday.
ARP funds were meant to provide relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the former treasurer, the Board of Commissioners created a system where local organizations would apply for a portion of those dollars. The BOC received about a dozen applications, Barnes said.
Barnes said when he retired in April 2024, he submitted a report to the Board of Commissioners, notifying them that $2.6 million in ARP dollars had not been allocated yet. How those dollars get allocated isn’t the treasurer’s responsibility, he said, but falls under the purview of the county finance director.
“The new treasurer sat next to me at his computer and we did this report and he was aware that there was $2.6 million that we had not allocated to anything yet,” Barnes said. “If they made a phone call to me I could have answered this question and it never would have been a problem. I don’t understand why this is an issue.”
At a Dec. 19 Board of Commissioners meeting, Wolf said that when she arrived at the county in February 2024, 26-month-old deposits had not been entered into the county’s fiscal system. The county still owed pass-through tax revenue to other small agencies, had made about $30 million in bank adjustments and recorded $3 million to the wrong funds, “misstating other balances and other funds.”
On Jan. 9, Wolf told the Board of Commissioners that Vicino had received an email from the U.S. Department of Treasury informing him that if the county didn’t account for the $2.7 million in unallocated ARP dollars, it would have to return those funds.
“Apparently there were two separate deposits of equal amounts that came in, and this goes back to 2021 and 2022,” she said. “I was under the impression, and Nick was under the impression, that these were spent down. In less than 24 hours Nick and I had to justify the funds to the U.S. Department of Treasury because we do not have $2.7 million to return to them.”
According to Wolf, Vicino completed a report to the Treasury Department stating that the county would use the unaccounted-for funds as lost revenue dollars. She said those dollars could be spent on personal protective equipment, sanitary items and any other COVID-related expenses the county paid for front-line workers during the pandemic.
In 2024, more than $500,000 in ARP dollars were used to help Curry County through a ransomware attack that crippled its network, according to Vicino.
Wolf said she and Vicino are going back to 2021 to try to figure out where those ARP dollars were allocated to and why they weren’t recorded.
“We really have to unravel this from 2021 to current on these dollars because we were under the impression they were all spent,” she said. “We’ve got to figure this out.”’
In an email Monday evening, Barnes pointed Redwood Voice to an item the Board of Commissioners considered on May 16, 2024 to allocate up to $1.2 million to the recording division of the Curry County Clerk’s Office. This money was to be used to restore digital files that were lost due to the 2023 ransomware attack.
According to Barnes, that $1.2 million accounts for nearly 45 percent of the missing $2.7 million.
However, while the Board did vote to transfer ARP dollars to the County Clerk’s Office, the allocation was for $500,000, according to the May 16, 2024 agenda packet. Since it was a proposal included in the Board’s consent agenda, commissioners approved it without comment.
In his email, Barnes said that allocation wasn’t included in a report he made to the U.S. Treasury’s Office on April 24, 2024 since it occurred after his last day with the county.
“I will not conjecture why the US Treasury report was not updated with this info,” he told Redwood Voice.
On Jan. 9, Commissioner Jay Trost said if $2-plus million were available to the county, it would be a gut punch after budget cuts it had to make in June 2024.
His colleague Brad Alcorn agreed.
“This was a mistake made by someone else and it’s a mistake that has affected a lot of people’s lives,” Alcorn said.
In June 2024, after a law enforcement tax levy failed, Curry County was forced to reorganize departments and layoff about 17 employees to address a $3.8 million general fund deficit.
On Monday, however, Ted Fitzgerald, the county’s director of operations and legal counsel, said there may not be $2.7 million in ARP dollars left for the county to spend. In fact, he said, he believed the county spent more than the total $4.4 million it received by about $30,000 to $40,000.
According to Fitzgerald, the rules about how ARP dollars could be spent were stricter in the beginning. Then those rules became more relaxed and the county could put it to a variety of uses.
“The major problem was how [that money] was accounted for to the federal government,” he said. “The money came in and half was kept track of and declared to the federal government that it had been used properly and the remaining half was sort of dropped.”
Fitzgerald said the county is looking into how it should respond to the previous treasurer’s actions. He said he informed Barnes when he was still in office that he was in violation of his obligations under Oregon statute, but it “just kind of fell on deaf ears.”
“I think as we go forward a lot more will become clear regarding the nature and extent of any sort of aggregation of duties as we go through this audit,” he said, adding that much of the audit would be performed in-house, though eventually a third party will need to look at the county’s finances.
Barnes, however, said he introduced himself and Vicino, who was his deputy, to Wolf during her first week on the job and met with her to “let her know what was going on.” During that meeting, Barnes said, Fitzgerald stormed into the room and forbade him from speaking with Wolf, bringing the meeting to a close.
“I do not recall having another conversation with Keina after that,” Barnes told Redwood Voice. “If they’re looking for why this information didn’t get told to Keina, Ted told me I wasn’t allowed to talk to Keina. She was his employee and I was forbidden to talk to her. At the time me and him were not on speaking terms either.”
A few weeks later, according to Barnes, when he retired as treasurer in April 2024, Wolf told him that the county’s accounts were reconciled.
“What happened between then and now I have no idea,” he said.
On Wednesday, in response to Brookings resident Georgia Cockerham, who described the Jan. 9 meeting as a stage show, Wolf urged her and other members of the public to “sit in my chair and show me” if they think they can do better.
“I do take it personally when people try to publicly attack me,” she said. “I’m a public employee. I have a right to work in an environment that is not harassing.” (SOURCE)
The Columbia River Maritime Museum is looking for its newest crew member!
MUSEUM EDUCATOR — Full Time, Salary Position reporting to Director of Education
Full job description and employment application are available on our website – https://www.crmm.org/join-our-crew.html
PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical center has recently opened a satellite ear, nose and throat off in Florence at the Peace Harbor Campus.
Dr. Frank Chen is one of the physicians there and he say the response has been impressive with the offices booked out more than 3 months already. “Nearly all the patients have said that they are grateful and they are happy that there is a service line there for ENT and they don’t have to travel as far.”
Last week Dr. Chen performed the first ENT surgery at the hospital on an adult male patient. He says the services will expand moving forward. “We are right now doing procedures for adults and then we eventually will start doing the pediatric population later this year.” The ENT offices are opened only on Fridays and are by referral only.
Oregon Coast Humane Society to Acquire Vet Clinic
The sale won’t be final for a few more weeks, but the Oregon Coast Humane Society announced Friday they are in the process of buying Oceanside Veterinary Clinic at 1739 21st Street. Elizabeth Thompson, the Executive Director of OCHS, said once the acquisition is complete the first priority is on transferring current veterinary services for shelter animals to the clinic.
“Plan is that we will not be open for public animals probably for this entire year, maybe into 2026.”
Thompson acknowledged the shortage of veterinary care in the Florence area. Unfortunately, it will be several months before they’ll be able to open to the public.
“The goal will be that we can focus on high quality, high volume spay and neuter when we do open to the public so that we can really try to get a grip on this community cat situation and all these unexpected litters that people are not planning to have because they can’t get access to care for their animals.”
Buying and staffing the clinic means volunteers will no longer have to shuttle ailing shelter pets to other clinics out of the area. That will save time, and ultimately money. The Oregon Coast Humane Society is a “no-kill” shelter that has been operating in Florence for more than three decades. Follow and Support on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OregonCoastHumaneSociety
Siuslaw Community Stand Down Feb. 22 at Elks Lodge in Florence
The Siuslaw Community Stand Down will take place, Feb. 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Florence Elks Lodge 1858 in Florence. For those wondering what what that means, a Stand Down is a day where many volunteers and organizations will make the effort to care for and help homeless and at risk people, with an emphasis on the US Veteran population.
Many agencies will come together to help with five areas of health. Dentists, barbers, medical, mental health and social workers will be onsite to help relieve some of the burdens that can cause a person’s sense of well-being to break down.
At-risk persons can come to the event, have breakfast, get a haircut, speak with counselors, find clean clothes, speak with employment counselors, get dental cleanings and checkups, and more. Guests can meet in person with local western Lane agencies, Lane County agencies, and Veterans Administration services.
The Stand Down welcomes veterans and their families, senior citizens, unhoused persons, pregnant women, disabled persons and youth and offers free on-site services for clothing, food, haircuts, housing, employment, medical, dental, mental health and more. Brunch will be served from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The Elks Lodge is located at 1686 12th Street in Florence.
The Stand Down is sponsored by the Western Lane Veteran and Community Partnership coalition. for more information please contact Chilton at 541-305-3911.
Free vision screening offered to children Tuesday 2/18 at Yachats Lions Club
YACHATS — To help identify children’s vision problems before they become serious, the Yachats Lions Club is staging a free eyesight screening Tuesday, Feb. 18.
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lions Hall, 344 W. Fourth St., children ages three to 18 can get a quick procedure from trained personnel to help spot any vision issues.
The screening is available to all home-schooled children as well as those attending preschool at the Yachats Youth and Family Activities Program. Any other children who may have missed the screening at their public, private or charter school are also welcome.
The Yachats Lions offers the event in partnership with the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation’s school vision screening program.
“Screening takes just 30 seconds to a minute,” said Yachats Lions president David Okelley. A screener from the Oregon foundation, local Lions and additional volunteers will administer the screening using a device called the Welch Allyn Spot. According to the foundation’s website, “Using this device, we can detect eight different vision issues in seconds.”
Children who currently use glasses should wear them during the screening. “We see that sometimes children’s glasses are no longer working well for them, and they need an adjustment,” Okelley said.
“Many studies have shown that having corrected vision leads to better outcomes in school,” he said. “It is so important that we catch our children’s eye issues early and get them corrected.”
At the time of the screening, parents will be given a handout with the results, and information if next steps are needed.
“Unlike our statewide SVS program, where we are often reimbursed by the state, this screening will be funded by the Yachats Lions and the foundation,” Okelley says.
Coos Bay Police Department – WE’RE HIRING 9-1-1 DISPATCHERS
$4684 – $5972/Month DOQ — We offer:•A dynamic team environment •Alternative schedule benefiting work/life balance •Up to 5 weeks paid time off per year after the first year •The opportunity to serve your community
Our team members have come from a variety of work fields- no experience necessary! For additional information from the North Coos 9-1-1 Recruitment Team or to schedule a ride-along please email: join911@coosbayor.govhttps://www.coosbayor.gov/…/Compon…/JobPosts/Job/126/107
Ridership on the Lane Transit DistrictRhody Express has more than doubled since this public transit service expanded to 30-minute service in the City of Florence in June 2024.
The Rhody Express provided 6,719 rides from July 2024 through December 2024. During the same period in 2023, there were 3,316 rides on the service. In addition, ridership has remained steady to date in the winter months. There were a total of 1,037 rides in November 2024 and 1,096 in December 2024.
The Rhody Express operates from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. More information about the Rhody Express is available at: https://www.ltd.org/system-map/route_901/.
CRAB DOCK REOPENED
Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock Repairs Complete
The Douglas County Parks Department is pleased to announce that the Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock located at 936 Salmon Harbor Drive in Winchester Bay, Oregon reopened on Thursday, February 6, 2025. The crab dock, a beloved coastal recreation destination, has undergone extensive repairs after suffering structural damage following a high-water event in 2024.
Located in the heart of Winchester Bay, Windy Cove County Park sits at the confluence of the Umpqua River and the Pacific Ocean. Douglas County is excited to welcome residents and visitors back to enjoy all areas of Windy Cove County Park. In addition to the 900-foot dock, the park includes a protected beach, ocean view parking, restrooms and day use picnic facilities. We appreciate the community’s patience and support during the repair process and look forward to seeing this local gem once again bustling with crabbing, fishing, and waterfront enjoyment.
The Windy Cove Crab and Fishing Dock was originally built by the United States Coast Guard in 1939 and was primarily used as a Coast Guard mooring and shipping dock until 1959, when operations moved to the newly built Coast Guard Station located at the mouth of the Umpqua River. Douglas County acquired and repurposed the old Coast Guard dock for local recreational opportunities in the 1970’s.
The Douglas County Parks Department appreciates the public’s patience as they work to enhance, improve, and expand recreational experiences in our county parks. For more information, or to locate a Douglas County Park, Campground or Boat Ramp near you, log onto the Douglas County Parks Department’s webpage on the Douglas County, Oregon Government website at: https://douglascountyor.gov/Parks
Cape Perpetua Collaborative – The 2025 Land Sea Symposium is now available to watch day or night on our YouTube channel! Happy streaming 
https://youtu.be/MZk0KjrTWsI?si=RP9MXqVTNUoQoUxT
The City of Florence is looking to fill a vacancy on the City Council following Councilor Bill Meyer’s resignation, which takes effect February 28th. Meyer made the announcement during Monday’s City Council meeting.
“To Mayor Rob Ward, I hereby notify you of my intention to resign from my council position with the City of Florence, Oregon, effective February 28, 2025.”
Meyer said he was honored to work with the council and the city staff and wished them success in the future. The city will now need to fill that vacancy. Applications for the position are due by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19. Applicants must have lived within city limits for at least a year and be registered voters. The City Council will review applications and may invite candidates for interviews on February 27. The position is voluntary, offering residents a chance to be actively involved in local government. More details and applications are available at www.ci.florence.or.us.
The city of Florence received word this week it has been awarded a 70-thousand-dollar grant as part of a statewide effort to help communities be resilient in the face of a large-scale disaster.
Megan Messmer, Florence Assistant City Manager, says the money will pay for a large trailer mounted diesel generator.
“We have these pump stations throughout town and if there is a large-scale power outage that lasts a long time, we need to deploy generators to those to keep them operational, so they don’t get overwhelmed.”
Messmer says this isn’t the only grant Florence is receiving. Lane County applied for a 20-million-dollar grant that will be divided between six or seven communities, including Florence.
“Lane County was awarded that grant, and it will be expanding the Senior Center so that will be a large capital project. It will also include some resilience type coordination with non-profits and really expanding our resilience as a community.”
That expansion, which will include an emergency generator and heavy-duty HVAC equipment, could provide a “clean air” shelter if there is heavy wildfire smoke. It would also serve as a community hub where area residents could go to receive emergency services.
BECOME A WHALE AMBASSADOR on WORLD WHALE DAY
Tuesday, February 18, 2025 3:00PM – 4:30PM Location: Ford Room in Main Museum BuildingColumbia River Maritime Museum1792 Marine Drive, Astoria, OR
Balloons are a pretty decoration, but do you know how harmful they can be to our aquatic friends? Drop by the museum to learn how to become a Whale Ambassador and what alternatives can be used to mark a special occasion. Then, make a kite out of compostable materials.
February is Earthquake and Tsunami Awareness Month in Oregon
Governor Tina Kotek has proclaimed February Tsunami and Earthquake Awareness Month in Oregon.
In the past, Oregon has suffered considerable damage from moderate earthquake events–such as the 1993 Scotts Mills and Klamath Falls earthquakes–and from a deadly tsunami that originated in Alaska in 1964.
Scientific evidence indicates that the State of Oregon is at risk for a much larger event associated with the Cascadia Subduction Zone that is expected to generate strong ground shaking and a destructive tsunami, similar to the event that occurred in Northeastern Japan on March 11, 2011.
Loss of life and property is minimized by natural hazard mitigation planning and grant funding at the state, Tribal, and local levels, which reduce the impact of disasters through risk assessment and mitigation actions–such as seismic strengthening of existing buildings and public education on local tsunami evacuation routes.
As a result, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), within its role as chair of the Interagency Hazard Mitigation Team (IHMT), will be working with IHMT member agencies, federal partners, local jurisdictions, and neighboring states to highlight jurisdictional earthquake and tsunami mitigation strategies and provide education and information about individual preparedness for Oregon residents and visitors throughout the month of February and beyond.
Watch our social media channels and website for preparedness tips and upcoming dates for the Tsunami Preparedness Roadshow that will be traveling to numerous coastal communities February 27 through 28.
RESOURCES
- Tips for Earthquake Preparedness
- What to Do If You’re Driving When an Earthquake Hits
- How to Prepare for Tsunamis and Help Your Community Become More Prepared
- Be2Weeks Ready Toolkit
- Learn About the Cascadia Subduction Zone Hazards and Preparedness
- Learn About Cascadia Island Mapping
- Oregon’s Tsunami Inundation Map (TIM) Series
A historic gift shop perched on the edge of a cliff on the central Oregon coast will be closed through the spring for repairs.
The Cape Foulweather Gift Shop, located within the Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint just south of Depoe Bay, will be closed through June, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced Thursday, as crews begin a $917,000 renovation project on the historic building.
The building, also known as The Look-Out on Cape Foulweather, was erected in 1937 by Wilbur “Buck” and Anna Badley, who originally ran it as a coffee shop. The pair soon pivoted to selling souvenirs, taking advantage of the surge in motor tourism. The Look-Out was also used by the U.S. military as a strategic vantage point during World War II.
Cape Foulweather was named by Captain James Cook in 1778, who gave it the moniker due to the extremely bad weather on the day that he first saw the landmark.
In 2013, the building was purchased by the state parks department, and in 2015 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Now, the gift shop will undergo a major renovation that involves replacing the roof, windows and siding, making structural repairs, and enhancing visitor safety and accessibility, park officials said. Renovations are also meant to restore the character of the façade with siding materials similar to those used in the original construction.
A second phase of renovations is expected to begin in winter 2025, focusing on accessibility and upgrades to the building’s mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. Parking at Cape Foulweather will be extremely limited during the closures, the parks department said.
Gleneden Beach Community Club Events
Look what’s coming up soon at the Club… (sign up at glenedenbeach.org)
The 48th Annual Newport Seafood and Wine Festival
February 20-23rd 2025 Follow Newport Seafood & Wine Festival For tickets & more information
ODOT launches roadwork projects to boost safety in Curry County on Hwy 101
In Curry County, a $4.5 million emergency repair project will address sunken road surfaces on U.S. 101, with work taking place between mileposts 303-306 and 342-351. Single-lane traffic and delays of less than 20 minutes are expected. Additionally, pavement repairs will be made in Gold Beach and Brookings with intermittent lane closures and minor delays. — Drivers are advised to follow posted signs and be prepared for delays. For more information, visit the ODOT website.
Astoria Downtown Historic District Association (ADHDA) – Our 2nd annual We Love Downtown Astoria Photography Contest is back!
Submit your photos online at: https://www.astoriadowntown.com/welovedowntownastoria/The contest runs until February 23rd.
Get ready to sparkle and shine at the Prom of Your Dreams, an unforgettable evening benefiting Florence Habitat for Humanity! Join us on Saturday, Feb. 22, at Three Rivers Casino for a night filled with dancing, photo ops, and so much more!
Tickets are on sale now at florencehabitat.org or at the Habitat Office. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this incredible event, supporting a great cause while having a blast. Enjoy live and silent auctions, and cheer on the crowning of the Prom King and Queen!
For more details and ticket information, visit the Habitat website. Let’s dance the night away and make a difference in our community! See you there!
The Oregon Coast Aquarium New Tufted Puffin Oregon License Plates on Sale
One of Oregon’s most adorably iconic seabirds is coming to the front and back of a car near you. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has opened voucher sales for its new tufted puffin license plates.
The design, featuring a tufted puffin floating in the ocean and gazing down at some fish below, was created by the
aquarium’s graphic design and marketing coordinator, Cam Mullins.
Starring a tufted puffin—one of Oregon’s iconic seabirds–funds from the new license plate will benefit both the Aquarium’s animals and their wild counterparts. You can purchase a voucher now and exchange it at the DMV once the physical plates are available. We need to sell 3,000 vouchers to reach the production stage—meaning the sooner 3,000 vouchers are sold, the sooner production begins, and the sooner you’ll have your puffin plates in-hand. Read the full story at aquarium.org/puffin-plate-debut
: photo by OCAq’s Jeremy Burke
Tufted puffins are native to Oregon and nest on the rocky coast. The aquarium has a Seabird Aviary that sustains a flock of these sea birds and the profits from the license plates will go to benefit these puffins and their wild counterparts.
The voucher is available for purchase on the aquarium’s website. The cost covers the $40 surcharge fee and the money left over after the deduction of the DMV’s fees will go to support the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s
rehabilitation and conservation efforts. The aquarium is building a new marine wildlife rehabilitation center with
hopes of doubling the number of animal patients it can offer care to. FOLLOW on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OregonCoastAquarium
Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay
Follow on Facebook: Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay
Oregon Emergency Coordination Center Activates to Level 3 in Response to Severe Winter Weather
Oregon Dept. of Emerg. Management – 02/13/25 2:42 PM
SALEM, Ore.– The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3 (Regional Response) in response to a winter storm forecasted to impact much of Western Oregon from the evening of Feb. 12 through Feb. 14. The National Weather Service predicts a strong potential for snow and freezing rain, which may lead to treacherous travel conditions, road closures, power outages, and the need for temporary warming shelters.
Multiple jurisdictional emergency operations centers across the state are activated, and OEM is coordinating with local, Tribal and state partners to monitor impacts and support response efforts as needed. The Level 3 activation allows OEM to maintain situational awareness, facilitate information-sharing and support resource requests from local jurisdictions.
People in Oregon are urged to take precautions during the storm:
- Stay informed: Check local weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts through ORalert.gov. View the latest Hazard Situation Overview for real-time impacts and response efforts.
- Avoid travel if possible: Roads may become hazardous due to ice and snow. If travel is necessary, carry an emergency kit, chains, and extra supplies.
- If you do need to leave the house: Check TripCheck.com to know the latest road conditions, and make sure you are caring a shovel and have an emergency car kit. Read more about how to prepare for winter driving on the OEM blog.
- Prepare for power outages: Have flashlights, batteries, and a backup heat source ready. Never use generators or grills indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.
- Check on neighbors: Ensure vulnerable individuals have what they need to stay safe and warm.
- Know where to go to get warm: Warming shelters are listed at Oregon 211.
Sign up to receive the latest news directly from OEM. To find out more preparedness tips, like how to Be2Weeks Ready for disasters, visit Oregon.gov/OEM.
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It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.
Whiteout Conditions Cause 100 Car Pileup on I-84 in Oregon
More than 100 cars, trucks and semi-trucks were involved in a crash on Interstate 84 early Thursday afternoon, according to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.
– On Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 10:45 a.m. Oregon State Police (OSP) responded with local law enforcement and first responders to multiple crashes on Interstate 84 (I-84) westbound near milepost 35 about three miles west of Multnomah Falls.
Preliminary reports indicate numerous factors, such as icy and slick roads, limited visibility, and near-white-out conditions, contributed to the crashes. Oregon State Troopers responded to eight separate crashes, and four individuals were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries. Local law enforcement also responded to an unknown number of crashes. The total number of vehicles involved is not known at this time.
I-84 westbound is not yet completely open; however, traffic is starting to flow through the area. Much of the area remains under winter storm warning through 10 a.m. Friday. Residents are encouraged to postpone travel until weather conditions improve. If you must travel, visit tripcheck.com for current weather and road conditions.
Police earlier estimated that more than 100 cars were involved in the pileup, but after “a more thorough assessment,” they said it was closer to 20-30 vehicles that had crashed. “Low visibility made it difficult to differentiate initially between vehicles that were involved and vehicles that were only stopped,” they said.
An SUV in the pileup caught fire. Everyone in the vehicle managed to get out, police said. Freezing rain and snow contributed to the pileup, where officials extended a state of emergency through at least Friday and said eight emergency shelters would be open.
New Edition of the Oregon Blue Book Highlights John Day Fossil Beds and the Great Comet of 2024
Every odd-numbered year since 1911, the Oregon Secretary of State’s office has published the Oregon Blue Book, our state’s official almanac and fact book. Each edition of the book features beautiful, new cover images of Oregon captured by the winners of the Oregon Blue Book Cover Photo Contest.
The 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book front cover features a stunning capture from the Painted Cove in the Painted Hills Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, near Mitchell. Photographer Matt Straite of Keizer made the image which he titled, “The Many Sides of Oregon.” The back cover includes an amazing astrophotography shot titled “Comet/C2023 A” by Nathan Rohde of Shady Cove.
“The Oregon Blue Book is an invitation to learn more about Oregon, engage with your neighbors, our government and our state’s history. It helps us understand what it means to be an Oregonian. The artists who’ve created these cover images captured some of that spirit, and I’m thrilled they’re a part of my first Oregon Blue Book as Secretary of State,” said Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read.
“So many people look right past the desert areas of the state, but there is so much beauty there,” said Straite. “I have always been drawn to images that show the work of mankind in nature, particularly when that work has been added to help others see the nature, like the work of the Civilian Conservation Corp. The way this trail bends at the end is such a strong draw to want to explore more.” Straite also said that he shot this image from the boardwalk, which is there to take people through the sensitive clay hills without harming them.
Nathan Rohde’s image of Comet/C2023 A3, also known as the “Great Comet of 2024” was made near his home. He said he’s always been fascinated by astrophotography and loved trying to capture the Milky Way and the Aurora, but after seeing posts online of other peoples’ images of the comet, he thought he could capture it too: “Living in Southern Oregon affords access to some relatively dark areas. On a tall clearing not far from Lost Creek Lake, I got set up about an hour before sunset and began scanning the sky with my lens fully extended. About 45 minutes after sunset, conditions were perfect and the pictures started coming through!” Rohde said the rolling hills in the foreground were an excellent way to provide scale and accentuate the sky.
The 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book is available for presale purchase now at bluebook.oregon.gov/shop. These limited-edition books are $30 for the hardcover and $18 for the paperback, plus shipping and handling. A downloadable copy of the full cover for use by the media can be found in Oregon Blue Book Assets and Information here.
Frontline Caregivers to Pack the Room for Hearing on Legislation Requiring Hospitals to Disclose Strike Replacement Costs
– Providence caregivers will “pack the room” for a committee hearing on House Bill 2792, legislation that aims to create transparency and ensure that health systems in Oregon, which receive public funding, provide critical financial information to the public about what they are spending to replace striking workers.
The legislation, which was introduced by Representative Travis Nelson and Senator James Manning Jr., comes in the midst of the largest healthcare strike in Oregon history. Nearly 5,000 frontline caregivers from Providence hospitals and facilities across the state have walked off the job because of unsafe staffing, wages that are not competitive with other health systems, and cuts to workers’ healthcare, among other things.
“The costs associated with replacing employees during a labor dispute can be significant, and it is essential that hospitals be transparent about these expenses,” said Rep. Travis Nelson. “This legislation will provide the public, whose taxes help fund our hospitals, with a clearer picture of how healthcare dollars are being spent, and help stakeholders understand how much a hospital is paying to avoid settling fair contracts with their employees.”
The proposed legislation would require hospitals to submit a detailed monthly report to the Oregon Health Authority and to the Bureau of Labor and Industries outlining all the projected costs associated with hiring temporary workers or other staffing replacements in the event of a strike or lockout. The information would be made available to the public, allowing patients, employees, elected officials, and all Oregonians to understand the financial implications of a strike. Currently, hospitals are not required to disclose any of the costs associated with replacing striking workers.
The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), which supports the legislation, estimates Providence is spending at a minimum, more than $25 million per week just on the wages of replacement nurses instead of using those additional resources to settle a contract and pay permanent caregivers, who live in Oregon, a competitive wage. Replacement nurses can make upwards of $8,000 per week just in wages, which is far more than permanent nurses who are out on strike.
“This legislation is an important step towards promoting fairness and transparency in healthcare,” said Kathy Keane, an registered nurse from Providence St. Vincent who is currently on strike. “Providence, one of Oregon’s largest health systems, has a troubling history of financial opacity. When workers go on strike to fight for better patient care and working conditions, hospitals often spend millions of dollars on replacement workers, but those expenditures remain undisclosed. This lack of transparency means that Oregonians–whose tax dollars help fund these hospitals–have no way of knowing how much of their money is being spent to undermine frontline healthcare workers rather than invest in patient care.”
The House Committee on Labor and Workplace Standards will be hearing the legislation on Monday, February 10 at 3 p.m. in the Oregon State Capitol, Hearing Room D.
During the committee hearing, frontline caregivers from Providence, who are currently on strike, will present testimony regarding the potential impact of the legislation. The hearing will be open to the public, and members of the media are encouraged to attend. The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) Represents A Diverse Community Of More Than 23,000 Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Throughout Oregon. Together, We Use Our Collective Power To Advocate For Critical Issues Impacting Patients, Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Including A More Effective, Affordable And Accessible Healthcare System; Better Working Conditions For All Health Care Professionals; And Healthier Communities. For More Information Visit Www.OregonRN.org.
Providence Threatens to Cut Healthcare for Nurses and Their Families
Oregon Nurses Assn. – 02/13/25 4:51 PM
(PORTLAND, Ore.) – Providence sent an email to striking nurses today threatening to cut healthcare for striking nurses and their families starting February 28. This comes less than 24 hours after ONA and registered nurses (RNs) from eight hospitals unilaterally reopened negotiations with Providence following nearly a week of silence from the $30 billion healthcare corporation.
Threatening to strip health insurance from nurses and their families, including children, while delaying and prolonging contract negotiations, is shameful and inexcusable. This callous action underscores Providence’s prioritization of profits over the well-being of caregivers and the patients they serve.
Rather than punishing nurses and jeopardizing lives, Providence executives–who earn millions in salaries–should focus on settling a fair contract. The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) Represents A Diverse Community Of More Than 23,000 Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Throughout Oregon. Together, We Use Our Collective Power To Advocate For Critical Issues Impacting Patients, Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Including A More Effective, Affordable And Accessible Healthcare System; Better Working Conditions For All Health Care Professionals; And Healthier Communities. For More Information Visit Www.OregonRN.org.
Thousands of ONA Members are Waiting—Yet Again—For Providence to Step Up
Oregon Nurses Assn. – 02/13/25 2:47 PM
(PORTLAND, Ore.) – Nurses from eight Providence registered nurse (RN) bargaining units are calling on Providence to step up and take meaningful action in ongoing contract negotiations. Despite the Oregon Nurses Association’s (ONA’s) readiness to meet and provide solutions, Providence continues to fail to address key priorities, leaving nurses–and the patients we serve–waiting for them to step up.
Last night, eight RN bargaining units presented a comprehensive supposal that reflects clear priorities from frontline nurses, based on detailed member surveys. These priorities include:
- Backpay for overdue wage increases to recognize the hard work and dedication of nurses who have been working without a contract; some for more than 13 months.
- Common expiration dates to ensure the ability to bargain over permanent improvements and to stand together to stave off attempts at further takeaways.
- Improved pay incentives to address vacant shifts and ensure patients receive the care they deserve, even during staffing shortages.
- Systemwide solutions to address sub-standard health care benefits.
- Improved paid time off policies to allow nurses the rest and recovery they need to continue providing top-quality care patients deserve.
“Our members couldn’t be clearer about what’s necessary,” said Kathy Keane, a nurse and ONA leader from Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. “Providence has consistently delayed and ignored these critical priorities. The overwhelming rejection of previous tentative agreements across all eight RN bargaining units should send a loud and resounding message: Providence must come back to the table and meet the needs of nurses and our patients.”
Nurses remain united and steadfast in their commitment to securing a fair agreement. The supposals passed by our bargaining units clearly outline what it will take to resolve these issues.
“Providence has stalled for far too long,” Keane continued. “It’s time for them to get their act together and provide real solutions. Our nurses, patients, and communities deserve nothing less.”
ONA is ready to meet–at any time–but the lack of engagement from Providence highlights the employer’s failure to take these negotiations seriously … again. The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) Represents A Diverse Community Of More Than 23,000 Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Throughout Oregon. Together, We Use Our Collective Power To Advocate For Critical Issues Impacting Patients, Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Including A More Effective, Affordable And Accessible Healthcare System; Better Working Conditions For All Health Care Professionals; And Healthier Communities. For More Information Visit Www.OregonRN.org.
Providence’s Latest Statement Is Full of BS … (Bad Statistics)
Oregon Nurses Assn. – 02/12/25 10:09 AM
(PORTLAND, Ore.) – Providence’s latest attempt to spin the truth is nothing more than a smokescreen to distract from the real issues nurses and patients face every day. Let’s cut through the BS (Providence’s bad statistics!):
1.) “Market-Competitive” Compensation? Let’s Be Honest.
Providence wants you to believe that the “typical nurse will be making a $150,000 base salary.”
Spoiler alert: The “typical” nurse will not.
Spoiler alert 2: There is no such thing as a “typical” nurse. Some nurses work full time, some work part time (some work part time at Providence and part time at another health system), some work per diem, some work nights and holidays, some are preceptors, and sometimes nurses are “on call.”
The facts: the median annual wage for a nurse at Providence in the final year of the rejected tentative agreement would be as much as $62,000 dollars less than the $150,000 Providence is claiming they would make.
Additionally, the wage offers to the Providence hospital RNs who make the most money still lagged the market by 4.3%. The gap between Providence’s offer and a “competitive wage” for all the other bargaining units was even larger.
Providence’s bad statistics simply do not add up.
2. Staffing Crisis? Providence Is in Denial.
Pointing to 650 nurses hired over the last three years to falsely claim they have no staffing crisis is laughable. The figure proves nothing.
The fact is that Providence, as well as hospitals elsewhere, hemorrhaged demoralized and exhausted nurses during and after the pandemic. Providence’s efforts to replace them and meet the growing demand for nurses during that time collapsed. The corporation has needed to play catchup since. Its recent hiring figures are unremarkable and entirely consistent with growth in the RN workforce overall in Oregon and expansion of the hospital workforce throughout the state recently.
Staffing at Oregon’s Providence hospitals continues to be insufficient. Observe the more than 300 staffing complaints filed with the Oregon Health Authority since last July and you get a clear picture of a hospital system in crisis, where patient safety is at risk due to inadequate staffing levels, hobbled by recruitment and retention problems.
3. Health Care Costs? Executives Can Afford It–Nurses Can’t.
Providence said, “Bargaining unit nurses receive the same medical benefits package provided to their colleagues, including senior executives…”
Executives raking in millions can absorb rising out-of-pocket health care costs and higher premiums easily – but frontline nurses can’t. For instance, consider the impact of the out-of-pocket costs on Providence Executives versus frontline caregivers:
Example One: One of Providence Oregon’s Executives is paid over $1.1 million a year. Under the new Aetna plan, their out-of-pocket costs for family coverage is $11,731 per year, which includes medical and dental premiums, deductibles, and an extra premium charge for compensation above $200,000. Even with the extra charge, the costs they pay are just 1.1% of their annual income.
Example Two: A St. Vincent’s nurse who earns $85,000 would pay $9,784 per year in annual premiums and deductibles for family coverage. This would amount to 11.5% of the nurse’s wages — ten times the amount of a Providence Executive.
The “same medical benefits package” isn’t really the same after all.
What They Didn’t Say Also Speaks Volumes
Providence loves to report out on numbers when they can manipulate them, but here’s what they didn’t say in their latest statement.
Replacement Nurses Cost More: Providence will spend more on replacement nurses THIS WEEK than it would cost to close the gap between what was in their last proposal and full retro wages to its own staff. Specifically, Providence is spending an estimated $25 million per week for its replacement nurses wages. Their last contract offer was $15.7 million short on retro wages owed.
Providence Has Billions in Reserves: With $7.8 billion in cash reserves, it would take less than 0.2% to give their frontline nurses full retro pay. That’s right–less than 0.2%! And they would still have over $7 billion left in their “rainy day fund.”
Follow The Money to Providence’s Real Priorities: In 2023, Providence paid over $70 million in executive bonuses — that’s just bonuses! If they cut just 35-40% of that, they could invest in their frontline caregivers and meet the retro wage gap. Maybe better yet why not scrap executive bonuses altogether? If Providence is facing such “strong financial headwinds,” these bonuses for executives (who already make millions of dollars in salaries) might be a convenient place to trim…If Providence’s leadership cared about patients, staff, and the communities they serve, they would act like it.
The Bottom Line
Providence has the resources to end this strike today. What nurses are proposing isn’t “financially unviable” for Providence; it’s a choice. A choice to prioritize temporary fixes and bloated executive bonuses over long-term solutions that nurses and patients desperately need.
Nurses deserve better. Patients deserve better. And Providence can afford to do better.
It’s time to stop the BS. The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) Represents A Diverse Community Of More Than 23,000 Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Throughout Oregon. Together, We Use Our Collective Power To Advocate For Critical Issues Impacting Patients, Nurses, And Health Care Professionals Including A More Effective, Affordable And Accessible Healthcare System; Better Working Conditions For All Health Care Professionals; And Healthier Communities. For More Information Visit Www.OregonRN.org.
Providence Medford Nurses Overwhelmingly Reject Tentative Agreement Amid Statewide Push for Safe Staffing and Fair Wages
Nurses at Providence Medford Medical Center have overwhelmingly voted to reject the contract offer from Providence management, joining nurses from seven other Providence hospitals across Oregon in calling for contracts that address longstanding systemic issues in patient care and workplace conditions.
Nurses at Providence Medford had until Feb. 8 at 4 p.m. to vote, with Medford nurses now joining their nursing colleagues in rejecting Providence’s latest offer.
The rejection of the contract offer underscores nurses’ demands for safe staffing standards, competitive wages to recruit and retain staff, and healthcare benefits that ensure caregivers can take care of their families. Providence’s proposals fail to adequately address these critical issues, which have contributed to ongoing burnout, understaffing, and wage inequities across their facilities.
This vote comes amid the largest healthcare strike in Oregon history, which began on January 10, 2025, and involves nearly 5,000 frontline nurses and healthcare workers at eight Providence hospitals. Nurses have maintained their strike with a unified voice, demanding that Providence meet their calls for change.
ONA’s bargaining teams have approached negotiations in good faith throughout this process, even as Providence claimed their most recent offer was the best they could make. To demonstrate their commitment to transparency, ONA presented the contract offer to their members for a vote, allowing frontline nurses to provide direct feedback on the terms of the settlement–which they have done, with a resounding “no.”
The rejection of Providence’s contract offer reflects the unified stance of Oregon’s frontline nurses, who remain committed to securing contracts that prioritize safe patient care, fair compensation, and a sustainable work environment. ONA has called on Providence to return to the bargaining table immediately to deliver a fair contract that addresses these systemic issues.
Oregon Couple Due in Court on Charges of Posing as Firefighters in Fake Truck
Lawmakers want to make impersonating firefighters a felony as convicted arsonist Dustin Nehl, 31, and his wife Jenni, 44, an atmospheric and fire science educator, are hit with misdemeanor charges and were due in a Van Nuys courtroom Tuesday.
Courtesy of Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
On January 18, convicted arsonist Dustin Nehl, 31, and his wife Jennifer Hastings Nehl, 44, who describes herself as an “atmospheric & fire sciences educator,” pulled up to a checkpoint on the Pacific Coast Highway in a decommissioned fire truck dressed as firefighters.
The couple, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department officials say, were wearing T-shirts with the name of a nonexistent fire department in Oregon, Roaring River Fire. The fire truck they were driving – with California plates – was also emblazoned with the name of the bogus department and had been purchased at an auction.
In the truck were radios tuned to various first responder channels, hard hats, tactical vests and Cal Fire tees. A law enforcement source told Los Angeles the couple also had tools that could be used “for burglary or who knows what.” What is certain, police officials say, is that the Nehls were not first responders and had no legitimate reason to try to access the Palisades fire burn scar, which led to their arrests on misdemeanor charges last month.
They were slated to appear in a Van Nuys courtroom Tuesday for pretrial hearing.
The case has raised eyebrows in Los Angeles as the ATF continues to investigate the cause of the Palisades Fire especially given Dustin Nehl’s alarming history of using incendiary devices to set fires at a golf course and a water treatment plant in the town of Woodburn, Oregon. “This is a significant arrest not only because of the threat to our residents, but to city infrastructure and public safety,” then Woodburn Police Chief Jim Ferraris told reporters after Nehl was captured in 2016. Nehl was sentenced to five years in prison in 2017.
Jenni Nehl, a National Weather Service-connected climate activist, has no criminal record, prosecutors say. But she does teach juvenile inmates about wind and fire, and encourages them to record rap songs called “Weather Slaps,” that contain lyrics like this one: “We needed help with the heat, so I am getting impatient. Wildfires running wild something breathtaking.” In a since-deleted Facebook post written on July 4, 2021, Nehl posted a photo of a wildfire with the caption, “Tired of just watching it burn? Then give the forests back to the loggers and learn.” (SOURCE)
Oregon DFR encourages people to protect themselves against relationship investment scams
Salem — The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning people to be wary of an unexpected text or direct message from a stranger — it might be the first step in a relationship investment scam, also known as a romance scam or “pig butchering.” These scams often involve fraudsters contacting targets seemingly at random, using social media or common communication apps.
The scammer gains the target’s trust, often by starting a romantic relationship or a friendship. The scammer then starts to convince the victim to invest in phony investments, including fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes, before falsely claiming the initial investment grew significantly. The scammer then asks for more money and demands payment of fees or taxes if the victim requests to withdraw the funds. Even when the victim pays the withdrawal fees, the fraudster does not refund the victim’s money, but rather disappears with the funds without any further communication.
According to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), there are several warning signs to be aware of involving these types of scams:
- Unexpected contact: Never respond to unsolicited messages from unknown contacts, even about seemingly benign topics, especially through text message or on encrypted messaging applications like WhatsApp or Telegram.
- Refusal to participate in video chats: If someone you have been messaging declines to interact face-to-face, they likely are not the person from the profile photo.
- Request for financial information: Don’t share any personal financial information with anyone you have never met in person. If a new virtual friend or romantic connection starts making financial inquiries, put the brakes on the relationship.
- Invitation to invest in specific financial products: Be wary of any unsolicited investment advice or tips, particularly from someone you have spoken to only online, even if they suggest you trade through your own account. Always question what a source has to gain from sharing tips with you and whether the transaction fits with your financial goals and investment strategy.
- Unknown or confusing investment opportunity: Carefully evaluate the product, as well as the person or company requesting your investment. Along with a basic search, try adding words such as “scam” or “fraud” to see what results come up. Consider running recommendations by a third party or an investment professional who has no stake in the investment and use FINRA BrokerCheck to see if the promoter is a registered investment professional.
- Unfamiliar trading platforms: Do extensive research before moving any money, particularly in an emerging market such as cryptocurrency, which has hundreds of exchanges and new avenues for trading that continue to evolve. Who controls the platform? What security measures are in place? How can you withdraw funds if needed? If you don’t know the answers to those questions, do not put your assets there.
- Exaggerated claims and elevated emotions: Take a closer look at any investment that offers much higher than average returns or is touted as “guaranteed.” Fraudsters will also often use their knowledge about you to appeal to your emotions — for example, “Don’t you want to have money to send your kids to college?”
- Sense of urgency about an upcoming news announcement or share price increase: Remember that insider trading is illegal. You should never trade in shares of a company on the basis of material, nonpublic information.
“Romance and crypto scams continue to be the source of significant losses for consumers,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “Consumers who receive contacts out of the blue through messaging apps on their phone or other means should be especially suspicious of those trying to entice them into cryptocurrency or any other investments.”
Several states and federal authorities have issued warnings about this type of fraud. In 2023, investment fraud caused the highest losses of any scam reported by the public to the FBI’s Internet Crimes Complaint Center (IC3), totaling $4.57 billion, a 38 percent increase from 2022. Frauds involving cryptocurrency, including relationship investment scams, increased from $2.57 million in 2022 to $3.96 billion in 2023, a 53 percent rise. DFR accepts consumer complaints relating to investment fraud and will forward other scam complaints to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Consumers should also report scams to the FBI’s IC3 at https://www.ic3.gov/. Learn more about relationship investment scams and how to outsmart scammers by visiting DFR’s website.
Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim of a relationship investment scam can fill out our online complaint form or contact DFR’s consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.
Oregon Ranked #2 in the nation for Firewise sites
Oregon Dept. of Forestry
–With 298 Firewise USA sites in good standing, Oregon is again ranked number two in the nation for number of Firewise USA sites. In 2024, Oregon added 32 new sites to create more fire-adapted communities.
Oregon is also honored to share the first Firewise USA site in the country that is located in two states, along the Oregon and California border in Lake County.
Along with being number two as a state in 2024, Oregon is also home to the number four and number five counties with the most sites in the nation: Jackson County with 74 sites and Deschutes County with 78 sites. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the dedication of community members and those that led the charge.
What is Firewise USA? Firewise USA is a program that helps guide communities in the process of protecting their homes and neighborhood from wildfire. The program is run by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and co-sponsored by the National Association of State Foresters and U.S. Forest Service. The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for administering the program in Oregon and is a resource to help communities create a community wildfire protection plan, find grants to fund projects, and give expert advice.
This work is not done alone. Through the help of ODF’s partners, community coordinators, and local fire departments, we all work together to complete assessments and help the community develop action plans for implementing wildfire risk reduction activities.
How does a community become a Firewise community? Starting the journey to become a Firewise USA site is as easy as picking up the phone and calling your local ODF office. Only a minimum of eight dwellings are required, meaning that your street, neighborhood or town can be a Firewise USA community.
The continuation and growth of the Firewise USA program in Oregon is just one way we can create more fire adapted communities and protect our neighbors.
Gym Roof at North Medford High School Collapses
No one was injured, school officials said, and other campus buildings are not in danger of collapsing.
Tuesday morning, several beams in the gym broke under the weight of the snow; students were placed on short lockdown as a precaution. At 10:47 a.m., the roof collapsed; emergency services responded immediately, and no injuries were reported.
Classes were canceled after the gym’s roof at North Medford High School collapsed under the weight of around 700,000 pounds of snow, according to school officials.
According to the school’s website, a crack in one of the gym’s trusses was discovered Friday afternoon. The gym was then evacuated, with Medford Fire, the city of Medford and engineering crews responding to reduce the snow on the roof, including shoveling, spraying and using ice melt and heat-tape cords. Athletic practices and PE classes were relocated to other buildings.
North Medford High School said an estimated 700,000 pounds of snow had accumulated on the roof.
According to the school, the gym is isolated from the rest of the campus, and students are being kept away from the area as crews assess damage. Students were released early, and school is also canceled for Wednesday.
Other buildings on campus are not in danger, having been inspected with no signs of structural damage.
The school stated that there isn’t any evidence of an engineering failure in the original construction and that the “gym performed well for 60 years before the extreme snow load caused the trusses to fail.” However, an engineering review will be performed once the structure is stabilized.
The gym had recently undergone a seismic upgrade, which prevented a full structural collapse. The reinforced walls remain standing, school officials said.
According to a statement from the principal, Allen Barber, on the school’s website, experts will be assessing the safety around the gym’s perimeter and developing contingency plans if the areas remain inaccessible.
Oregon Housing and Community Services helps create and preserve more than 500 affordable homes in Marion and Multnomah counties
Oregon Housing and Community Services
— Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) helps to significantly increase the supply of affordable homes by funding the creation and preservation of more than 500 homes in three affordable housing developments. The Barbur Apartments and Peaceful Villa in Portland and Orchard Park Apartments in Salem are set to receive more than $141.3 million in bond funding after the Housing Stability Council approved the financing last week.
The approval of this bond financing leverages more than $48.7 million of state resources, and $30 million of Oregon Affordable Housing Tax Credits. All three projects combined will bring in more than $10.6 million in annual federal tax credit equity investment.
“No matter where they live, all people of Oregon deserve to have a housing system that works for them. We must dedicate ourselves to making concrete housing progress that actually makes life better,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell.
Innovative Housing, Inc., is developing Barbur Apartments in Portland’s Hillsdale neighborhood. It will become a family-focused community with 149 affordable homes for people with incomes below 60% Area Median Income (AMI). Residents will have access to essential wraparound services tailored to meet the needs of immigrant and refugee families.
OHCS is also investing in innovative ways to transform existing affordable housing in response to Portland’s housing crisis. Home Forward’s Peaceful Villa is set to preserve its existing 70 homes and add 96 more homes, converting it into a new family community. The current residents will temporarily be relocated using the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. Once they move back, they’ll have options to rent one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes with services that include a food pantry, indoor and outdoor play areas, club house spaces, and a computer lab.
In Salem, Aberdeen Capital received $23 million to prevent the conversion of Orchard Park Apartment’s 224 homes to market rate rents after its affordability expired in 2021. This funding, which includes $3 million for immediate repairs, will ensure that rent remains affordable for people with incomes below 60% AMI. This investment is crucial to ensure housing stability for the current residents amid rising rents in the area.
Find more information about each affordable housing development in the Housing Stability Council meeting packet here.
About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) — OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.
Child sextortion cases in Oregon surge 857% since 2020
The number of sextortion and online solicitation reports in Oregon has skyrocketed 857% over the past five years, the Oregon Department of Justice announced Tuesday to mark Safer Internet Day.
The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) said that increase happened from 2020-2024 based on cyber tips received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
- 2020: 197
- 2021: 233
- 2022: 288
- 2023: 409
- 2024: 1,886
Mark Williamson, asst. chief criminal investigator with ICAC, explained how sextortion happens. A child is “friended” on social media sites by someone — usually using a fake identity — who gains their trust. They form a relationship beyond friendship and that person asks the child to send them explicit photographs. Then, the person will demand money from the child, with the threat of releasing the explicit photos to everyone on that child’s social media friends list.
Oregon DOJ says, in most cases, the children keep it a secret because they are too embarrassed to tell their families and unsure of what to do.
Oregon lawmakers approved additional funding for ICAC last year, allowing it to quadruple in size, Oregon DOJ said. That allowed ICAC to clear out a large backlog of cases.
“Our investigators are dedicated to combating online threats,” Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield said in a statement. “They are working with investigators across the country, and around world in some cases, to get justice for these kids and their families.”
Resources:
- 10 Best Practices for Internet Safety Programs
- How to get nude pictures of minors removed
- What children or families should do if they become a victim of sextortion
Oregon Sues to Block Musk’s Treasury Access, Fearing He Could Cut Funding to Vital State Programs
Oregon AG Joins 18 Other States in Lawsuit Over Alleged Illegal Data Exposure, Demanding Halt to Musk and DOGE’s Control Over Federal Payments
Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield says giving Elon Musk access to the central payment system operated by the Treasury Department could allow him to block funding to critical state programs.
On Friday, Oregon joined 18 other State Attorney Generals in a lawsuit against the federal government to stop unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data and private information.
The lawsuit asserts that the Trump administration has illegally granted Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) access to the central payment system that includes the personal information of the American people, like Social Security numbers and bank account details.
Rayfield says access could enable DODGE to block payments to critical services like child and health care.
The coalition formed by the 18 attorneys general is calling for an injunction to stop the federal policy that provides Musk and DOGE with Treasury Department access and wants the policy to be declared unconstitutional and unlawful.
In a news release, Rayfield says the country has a ‘president and a billionaire who think they are above the rule of law.’
Rayfield says government decisions must be made in the ‘best interests of the American people,’ adding that ‘Oregon is committed to protecting the integrity of our financial systems.’ He described the federal policy as ‘reckless’ and an ‘unparalleled breach of national security and financial integrity.’
The Oregon Attorney General states that the Treasury is the ‘backbone of our economic stability’ and that unauthorized access could result in ‘catastrophic consequences for all Americans.’ (SOURCE)
The U.S. winter virus season is in full force, and by one measure is the most intense in 15 years. Oregon is one of 14 states with the most cases of flu in the nation.
One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. Last week, that number was clearly higher than the peak of any winter flu season since 2009-2010, according to data posted Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of course, other viral infections can be mistaken for flu.
But COVID-19 appears to be on the decline, according to hospital data and to CDC modeling projections. Available data also suggests another respiratory illness, RSV, has been fading nationally.
Some 14 other states, along with New York City, are now at the CDC’s highest tier of influenza activity: Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Overall, 43 states reported high or very high flu activity last week. Flu was most intense in the South, Southwest and western states. U.S. health officials recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination.
About 44% of adults got flu shots as winter began, which is the same as last winter. But coverage of children is down, at about 45% this winter. It’s usually around 50%, according to CDC data.
Oregonians looking to renew their vehicle registration and get new tags can now do so at a handful of Fred Meyer stores around the state
The self-service express kiosks from Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services are designed to give Oregonians another way to renew their registration besides at a DMV office, online or by mail, according to a news release.
The kiosks are located in Fred Meyer locations in Salem and Eugene as well as in Beaverton, Bend, Happy Valley, Hillsboro, Medford, Oak Grove and Tualatin. A location in Portland is coming soon and the DMV said it plans to offer more kiosks around the state in the future.
In Salem, the kiosk is at the Fred Meyer located at 3740 Market St. NE and allows users to pay by cash, credit or debit card. In Eugene, it’s located at the Fred Meyer at 3333 W 11th Ave. and will only allow payment via debit or credit card.
“We see these kiosks as a way to improve customer service, access and equity,” DMV administrator Amy Joyce said in the news release. “This program is the latest effort aimed at improving the DMV experience for our customers.”
The kiosks are ADA-accessible and registration renewal can be completed in English and Spanish. Users will be charged a $4.95 vendor fee for each transaction.
Customers will need to bring identification (license, permit, or ID card), insurance information and registration renewal notice. — Vehicle registration cards and license plate stickers will be printed after the transaction.
Registration Is Now Open For The Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K Run for the Trees
Oregon Parks Forever — Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests. Registration is now open for the 2025 Run for the Trees at www.orparksforever.org.
Participants can run, walk, hike, skate, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 19 and 27 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day). Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15.
For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks. Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration.
Gather your friends, family and/or colleagues and create your own walk or run. Make it fun!
Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.
As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its fifth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include ten other states. Together, Michigan, Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Maryland and Virginia will “lock arms” as they help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.
“We are thrilled to partner with Bob Ross, Inc. and these other ten states on the Happy Little 5K concept as a way to honor the late Bob Ross and create a legacy event to plant trees,” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.”
Oregon Parks Forever joined this event as an expansion of our efforts to fund the replanting of trees killed by wildfires, heat domes and invasive insects. Over the past three years, Oregon Parks Forever has been able to fund the replanting of more than 800,000 trees across Oregon.
“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.” — Learn more about the program at http://www.orparksforever.org
IRS Direct File, Direct File Oregon Will Be Available When Income Tax Return Processing Begins January 27
Salem, OR— Free electronic filing through the combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon will open January 27 when both the IRS and the Oregon Department of Revenue begin processing e-filed 2024 federal and state income tax returns. Paper-filed return processing will begin in mid-February.
Taxpayers are encouraged to use the IRS Eligibility Checker to see if they qualify to file directly with the IRS and the state.
E-filed returns will be processed in the order they are received. However, as in years past, the department won’t be issuing personal income tax refunds until after February 15. A refund hold is part of the department’s tax fraud prevention efforts and allows for confirmation that the amounts claimed on tax returns match what employers and payers report on Forms W-2 and 1099.
E-filing is the fastest way for a taxpayer to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.
The department reminds taxpayers that taking a few easy steps in the next few weeks can make preparing their 2024 tax return easier in 2025.
Free filing options open January 27 — In addition to IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon, other free filing options will also open January 27. Free guided tax preparation is available from several companies for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Free fillable forms are available for all income levels. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free.
Free and low-cost tax help — Free tax preparation services are available for low- to moderate-income taxpayers through AARP and CASH Oregon. United Way also offers free tax help through their MyFreeTaxes program. Visit the Department of Revenue website to take advantage of the software and free offers and get more information about free tax preparation services.
Voluntary self-identification of race and ethnicity information — New for 2025, Oregon taxpayers and Oregonians can voluntarily provide information about their race and ethnicity on Form OR-VSI when they file their 2024 taxes. Providing this information may be done separately from a tax return through Revenue Online. The information will be confidential. It can only be used for research purposes to analyze potential inequities in tax policy. The new option is a result of Senate Bill 1 in 2023.
Use Revenue Online to verify payments — Taxpayers can verify their estimated payments through their Revenue Online account.
Through Revenue Online, individuals can also view letters sent to them by the department, initiate appeals, make payments, and submit questions. Visit Revenue Online on the Revenue website to learn more.
Those who don’t have a Revenue Online account can sign up on the agency’s website.
To check the status of their refund after February 15, or make payments, taxpayers can visit Revenue’s website. You can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), we accept all relay calls.
Department Of Revenue Volunteers Will Help Taxpayers Use Direct File Oregon To E-file Their Taxes For Free At Libraries Across The State
Salem, OR—Oregonians looking for assistance in electronically filing their taxes for free, could find help as close as their local library this tax season.
Volunteers from the Oregon Department of Revenue will be traveling to libraries in 17 different communities across the state in February, March, and April to assist taxpayers in using the free combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon to complete their returns.
The one-day tax help clinics are planned at libraries in:
| Bandon | North Bend |
| Burns | Prineville |
| Coquille | Pendleton |
| Cornelius | Roseburg |
| The Dalles | Salem |
| Klamath Falls | Seaside |
| Lebanon | Sweet Home |
| McMinnville | Toledo |
| Tualatin |
Dates, times, and addresses for each clinic can be found on the Free Direct File assistance at local libraries webpage.
Last year, more than 140,000 taxpayers in 12 other states filed their federal tax returns using a limited IRS Direct File pilot program while nearly 7,000 Oregon taxpayers filed their state returns using the free, state-only Direct File Oregon option.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced in May that it would make IRS Direct File a permanent option for taxpayers and invited all 50 states to participate. Oregon was the first of 13 new states to accept the invitation from the IRS in June creating a seamless free e-filing system for both federal and state taxes.
With the two direct file systems connected, the IRS estimates that 640,000 Oregon taxpayers will be able to e-file both their federal and state returns for free in 2025.
The department believes that offering free assistance will help maximize the number of Oregonians who choose to use the new free option and make it possible for many who don’t have a filing requirement to file and claim significant federal and state tax credits for low-income families.
For example, the IRS estimates that one in five Oregon taxpayers eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit are not doing so. One Oregon organization estimates that the unclaimed credits have totaled nearly $100 million in recent years.
Taxpayers should use the IRS eligibility checker to see if they’ll be able to use IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon. Eligible taxpayers should set up an IRS online account and an account with Oregon’s Revenue Online before they come to an event. Taxpayers attending an event should bring the following information with them.
- Social security card or ITIN for everyone on your tax return
- Government picture ID for taxpayer and spouse if filing jointly (such as driver’s license or passport)
Common income and tax documents
- Forms W2 (wages from a job)
- Forms 1099 (other kinds of income)
- Form SSA-1099 (Social Security Benefits)
Optional documents to download
- Canceled check or bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
- Last year’s tax return
Taxpayers can signup for the new “Oregon Tax Tips” direct email newsletter to keep up with information about tax return filing and how to claim helpful tax credits.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Sites Open in Oregon: Program Provides Free Tax Prep to Thousands of Older Adults
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is providing free preparation now through April 15 throughout Oregon. Started in 1968, Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program and has served more than 80 million people. For the 2024 tax season, nearly 28,000 volunteers helped almost 1.7 million taxpayers, 965,000 of whom were adults over 50 with low income. Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS, and AARP membership is not required.
“During the 2024 tax season, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers completed over 19,400 federal returns and 18,500 state returns in Oregon with refunds of nearly $39 million,” said AARP Oregon State Director Bandana Shrestha. “Even modest refunds can make an impact on financial resilience, especially for vulnerable older adults. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide helps put money back in the pockets of Oregonians every year by making sure they don’t miss out on the credits and deductions they have earned.”
Tax-Aide volunteers provide free tax preparation and filing services to all with a focus on adults with low to moderate income. Volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year to ensure they understand the latest changes to the U.S. Tax Code.
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers a variety of options to better meet the needs of taxpayers. Access to the different types of assistance varies by location.
- In-Person Service: Tax preparation is completed by an IRS-certified Tax-Aide volunteer on-site in one visit.
- One-Visit Scan: Tax documents are scanned at the Tax-Aide site and then Tax-Aide volunteers prepare the return remotely.
- Two-Visit Scan: Tax documents are scanned at the Tax-Aide site and then volunteers prepare the return remotely. During a second visit, taxpayers work with a volunteer to finalize their return and obtain a printed copy for their records.
- Drop-Off Service: Tax documents are left at the Tax-Aide site with a volunteer and the return is prepared remotely. During a second visit, taxpayers work with a volunteer to file their return and obtain a printed copy and their original documents.
- No Site Visit Required (Internet Access Required): Taxpayers upload tax documents to the IRS-provided software. Tax-Aide volunteers prepare the return remotely and work with the taxpayer to file the return electronically.
- Online Coaching: Taxpayers prepare their own return and receive online support from a volunteer to help them along the way.
- Facilitated Self-Assistance: Taxpayers schedule an appointment at a Tax-Aide site to work with a volunteer to complete and file their own return.
- Self-Preparation: Taxpayers prepare their own return using a software product that has been made available through the Tax-Aide website.
Users can find their nearest Tax-Aide location and assistance options through the Tax-Aide site locator. The site locator features a Tax-Aide chat bot that can help book an appointment, answer questions about the program, and transfer the conversation to a live agent if needed or requested. For more information, including which documents to bring to the tax site, visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669)
https://www.oregon.gov/osp/missing/pages/missingpersons.aspx
Oregon’s Missing Persons
Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.
Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced
Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com