The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com
Monday, January 20, 2025
Oregon Beach Weather




Cannon Beach RFPD – Cannon Beach Firefighters Busy with Rescues on Sunday

Starting with a call for two missing boogie boarders at Indian Beach. Upon arrival, fire personnel were able to establish command and deploy two rescue swimmers onto the beach in an attempt to locate the missing persons. Due to the rapid response from U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, our swimmers were put on standby while the USCG helicopter was able to locate and safely remove the victims from the rocks. The victims were relocated to a landing zone at Ecola View Point where they were evaluated by fire personnel.
A dad and his 15-year-old son ended up stranded on rocks after boogie boarding off an Oregon beach, fire officials said. First responders got to Indian Beach at about 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, the Cannon Beach Rural Fire Protection District said in a news release. A bystander at the beach had reported “seeing the pair drifting north before losing sight of them,” the U.S. Coast Guard said in a Jan. 19 Facebook post.
It took minutes for rescuers to spot them on the rocks, fire officials said. Fire officials were ready to send two rescue swimmers into the water, but the Coast Guard brought a helicopter and retrieved the two boogie boarders, officials said. They were evaluated and refused medical transportation.
After returning to the station from the water rescue call, Cannon Beach Firefighters were dispatched to assist Hamlet Volunteer Fire Department with a trail rescue on Saddle Mountain.
Upon arrival, Cannon Beach Firefighters along with Hamlet Fire, Seaside Fire & Rescue, and Medix Ambulance Service hiked roughly 1.5 miles up the trail to find the injured victim 25’ down a small ravine.

Firefighters accessed, stabilized the victim, setup a rope system to extricate the victim out of the ravine, and then loaded the victim into a stokes basket and hiked the victim down the trail to an awaiting ambulance. The victim was then transported to the landing zone where they were transferred to Life Flight for further treatment and transport.
In addition to these two calls, Cannon Beach Firefighters also responded to several other emergencies. Not to mention, we still have four of our firefighters deployed to the Palisades Fire in Southern California.
The NXTClean Fuels Project In Clatskanie Gets Approval From The Oregon Department Of Environmental Quality
The NXTClean Fuels project took a significant step forward this month with the approval from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality of a water quality permit.

NXTClean Fuels is proposing a $2.5 billion renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel facility at the Port of Columbia County’s Port Westward Industrial Park in Clatskanie.
NXTClean Fuels, also known as NEXT Renewable Fuels, plans to construct a clean fuels manufacturing facility capable of producing up to 50,000 barrels of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel per day. Renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel are chemically identical to petroleum-based fuels and are a key component of Oregon’s climate plan to reduce carbon emissions.
NXTClean Fuels will use the Port’s deep-water dock to receive feedstock and ship finished product. The project will provide a return on the over $18 million that has been invested by the Port and Columbia County in infrastructure at Port Westward to build out the water intake and discharge systems, make rail improvements and upgrade roads to the industrial site.
The potential economic impact of the project for Columbia County is immense. NXTClean Fuels is expected to create over 2,400 jobs during construction, 240 permanent jobs once operational and contribute $13 million per year in local property taxes. This is more than double what the county’s current highest taxpayer paid in 2024 and will bring much-needed funding for our schools, public safety and other services. NXTClean Fuels has declined the corporate tax incentives available to it, so these funds will have an even greater impact on our community.
Since leasing the 90-acre industrial site from the Port in 2019, NXTClean Fuels has spent over five years navigating Oregon’s rigorous permitting process. The project received state approvals for its removal fill permit and air permit in 2022, and local land use permits in 2024. The approval of the water quality certification concludes the major Oregon state permitting reviews.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is overseeing federal permitting and is expected to publish an Environmental Impact Statement for public review in 2025. The Port recognizes the concerns over a facility of this size but is confident that our state and federal permitting agencies will ensure that any environmental impacts are carefully mitigated.
If approved, the NXTClean Fuels facility will support the transition to cleaner, renewable energy sources and drive long-term economic growth in Columbia County. Sean Clark is the executive director of the Port of Columbia County. (SOURCE)
Coos County Sheriff’s Office ·
Crash & DUII Arrest

On 01/18/2025, around 4:30 PM, North Coos dispatch received a report of a vehicle collision in the area of Highway 101 and Newport Lane. Coos County Sheriff’s Office Deputies, along with the Oregon State Police, responded to the scene.
Upon arrival, one of the involved drivers was identified as Cameron J. Waugh (26). Deputy Freerksen made contact with Cameron and obtained observations, consistent with impairment. Deputy Freerksen observed Cameron to have slurred speech, glossy eyes and noticed a heavy odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath.
After Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST) were submitted, Cameron was subsequently arrested and taken to the Coos Bay Police Department for additional testing.
Cameron was issued a criminal Citation for DUII, Reckless Drive, reckless endanger another person X4.”Police action is not indicative of guilt. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law”

Event by The City of Newport Parks and Recreation 225 SE Avery St, Newport, OR, United States, Oregon 97365 Tickets : secure.rec1.com/OR/newport-or/catalog
Join Keith Barnes, local Lincoln County Veteran Service Officer, to learn about what sort of benefits are available for veterans and their family members, including surviving spouses. Whether you or your loved one served just one enlistment or served until retirement, this talk is for everyone.
Even if you are familiar with VA benefits, there may be a chance to learn something new as well as meet other veterans. Food available! The lecture starts at 6pm, but doors open at 5:30 for anyone who wants to order dinner delivered from Siren’s Lure Teahouse and Bakery. You will be able to add your menu choices on during registration.
This presentation is otherwise free to attend if you are not ordering food.
Menu options…
Pesto Chicken on Herb Focaccia w/Minestrone Soup $17Mushroom and Crab Fettuccine. $15
(GF available)Asian Porkchop w/Vegetable Fried Rice. $16
(V & VG available) (GF)Registration is appreciated but not required unless you are ordering food. Register here
https://secure.rec1.com/OR/newport-or/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM0MDg1MDE=

Port Of Coos Bay Obtains $4M Federal Grant for Rail Overpass Project

The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay a nearly $4 million grant from the Railroad Crossing Elimination program to help fund construction of a rail overpass and make additional safety upgrades at an adjacent grade crossing in Reedsport.
The $3.99 million grant will support the design and engineering of the new overpass, which will cross Oregon Highway 38, and add safety features at the adjacent rail crossing.
The Port of Coos Bay plans to construct a ship-to-rail multimodal container facility, called the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port. It will be served by the port’s existing Coos Bay Rail Line, which will be expanded as part of the project. The overpass and safety upgrades are critical to supporting the future port traffic, port officials said in a press release.
“This is an important step in building the foundation for a modern, multimodal transportation hub on the South Coast,” said Melissa Cribbins, executive director of the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port project. (SOURCE)
Cape Lookout moves construction to fall, reopens summer reservations
TILLAMOOK, Oregon— Cape Lookout State Park will move its construction closure to fall 2025, which means summer campground reservations will reopen.
The park was slated to close temporarily for construction starting in spring 2025, but the schedule has changed.
All reservable campsites sites in A, B, C and D loops as well as deluxe cabins and yurts will be reservable online for stays May 31 through the current 6-month reservation window starting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21.
Cape Lookout is one of the nine GO Bond projects at Oregon State Parks supported through Oregon-issued general obligation bonds approved by the Oregon State Legislature in 2021.
Originally, the project included moving camp loops A & B to higher ground and away from encroaching seawater, but unexpected geological and safety concerns prevented the move. Now the work will focus on extending the life of the existing infrastructure and slated to include:
- Reinforcing the existing dune to prevent seawater from entering the camp loops
- Upgrading electrical and water systems in C and D loops
- Day use improvements
- Replacing campground restroom/shower building
The work is scheduled to begin in fall of 2025 and extend into spring or summer 2026. The campground and day-use area will be closed during construction.
We encourage visitors to monitor Oregon State Park website for up-to-date information about the Cape Lookout State Park GO Bond project and campground closures.
For more detailed information about the project visit the park construction web page.
Oregon Housing And Community Services Boosts The Creation Or Preservation Of More Than 100 Affordable Homes In Curry, Lane, And Multnomah Counties Including Florence
Agency awards more than $37 million for three affordable housing developments

— Oregon Housing and Community Services is funding the creation, preservation, and rehabilitation of more than 100 affordable homes across Oregon, with the more than half designated for seniors. The Housing Stability Council (HSC) gave the green light to the three projects last Friday. They include M Carter Commons in Portland, Elm Park Apartments in Florence, and Shelly Cove Apartments in Port Orford.
The council awarded $12.2 million to Elm Park Apartments in Florence through the agency’s Oregon Centralized Application (ORCA) process. The new construction will create 32 units ranging in size from one to three bedrooms. The development, built by Our Coastal Village, Inc., will feature a greenhouse, raised garden beds, a community center, and a playground. The site is centrally located across the street from a park and close to an early childhood education facility that will open this year. (https://www.ci.florence.or.us/sites/default/files/fileattachments/planning_commission/page/26096/exhibit_aa3.pdf)
Up to $21.5 million in pass-through revenue bond financing will go to M Carter Commons. The 62-unit development in Portland will serve residents over the age of 55. It’s named after Margaret Louise Carter, Oregon’s first Black woman legislator, and is co-developed and co-owned between Urban League of Portland and Northwest Housing Alternatives (NHA). Project amenities include an enclosed courtyard, bicycle parking, community and laundry rooms, a resident service provider space, and more. Urban League of Portland will provide culturally responsive services.
“Dirt is flying as communities across Oregon break ground on new housing developments,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “We are not just building—we are creating opportunities, connecting communities, and strengthening our state. Making life better and more affordable for Oregonians is possible through real investments, real affordable housing options, and real efforts to strengthen our economy.”
Shelly Cove Apartments is an acquisition and preservation project with 14 units in Port Orford that will receive $4.1 million in funding through ORCA. Sponsored by Chrisman Development, Inc, the preservation and rehabilitation will prevent the loss of affordable units and restore the building’s condition. Renovation will include a new roof, siding, exterior doors, and windows, and each of the units will be renovated and will receive new hot water heaters and energy-efficient appliances.
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.

Gleneden Beach Community Club Events

Look what’s coming up soon at the Club…Bingo night, a Lunar New Year potluck (sign up at glenedenbeach.org) and education night with the Oregon Coast Therapy dogs.
Sunday, February 2, 8-11am Pancake Breakfast & Shirt Sale
On the menu: scrambled eggs, sausage or ham, orange juice, all-you-can-eat pancakes, and hot beverages. $10 adults, $6 kids ages 6-12; under 6, free. Gleneden Beach sweatshirts available in multiple styles. Cash or credit card. Gleneden Beach Community Hall, 110 Azalea St. —- More events to come as space on the board allows, so keep watch! https://www.facebook.com/GlenedenBeachCC
Join Us for the Yachats Lions Club All-You-Can-Eat Crab Feed!
Bring your appetite and friends for a feast like no other! Our annual Crab Feed is back, offering a delicious meal and a wonderful community gathering. Saturday, January 25, 2025

Seating Times:12:30 PM @ Yachats Lions Hall
4:00 PM @ Yachats Lions Hall
4:00 PM @ Yachats Commons (Groups of 6+ only) Locations:
Yachats Lions Hall (344 W 4th St, Yachats, OR 97498)
Yachats Commons (4:00 PM seating for groups) What to Expect:
All-You-Can-Eat Dungeness Crab: Fresh and delicious, straight from local waters.
Tasty Sides: Baked beans, coleslaw, fresh bread, and soda included!
Great Atmosphere: A fun and lively event for crab lovers of all ages. Tickets: $45 per person. Seating is limited (100 at each Lions Hall seating; 140 at Yachats Commons), so reserve your spot early!
Reserve Your Spot: Visit yachatslionsclub.org/shop.
Big Blue Film Festival (BBFF) returns January 24 & 25, 2025!

The BBFF showcases ocean-themed films at the confluence of marine sciences, humanities, and the arts. Over 200 films were submitted by filmmakers from 55 countries. In the end, 34 films were selected and will be shown at Hatfield’s Gladys Valley Marine Studies Building and the Newport Performing Arts Center. Learn more about the festival, the films, or purchase passes at coastarts.org/events/big-blue-25
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

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay
Do you need a GoBag or GoBag supplies? Purchase supplies on the website and pick up items at the Pop-Up Shop. Pick up January 11, from 1:00-1:30 PM at the Manzanita Police Station — https://evcnb.org/events-and-training/gobag-popup-01112025

Two Oregon Residents Were Arrested Saturday for Impersonating Firefighters at the Palisades Fire
A man and a woman from Oregon were arrested over the weekend for reportedly impersonating firefighters as they attempted to enter a Palisades Fire evacuation zone in what appeared to be a legitimate fire engine, officials announced Sunday.

On Saturday, January 18, 2025, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Bureau investigators were contacted regarding an arrest of two suspects for impersonation of firefighters. An LAPD patrol unit was driving through the Palisades Fire area with fire personnel and observed a fire truck that did not appear to be legitimate. They relayed the information, and Sheriff’s deputies contacted the individuals in the fire truck as they attempted to enter an evacuation zone.
Upon contacting the two occupants of the truck, deputies noticed they were both wearing turnout gear. The occupants claimed to be from “Roaring River Fire Department” in Oregon. Upon further investigation, the deputies learned that the department name was not a legitimate agency, and the truck was purchased at an auction.
The two occupants were wearing CAL-Fire t-shirts under the turnout gear, helmet, and radios.The two admitted to being in the evacuation zone on Friday, January 17, 2025.
Deputies arrested Dustin Nehl, 31, and Jennifer Nehl, 44, for Impersonating a Firefighter and Entering an evacuation zone, and the truck was impounded. Suspect Dustin Nehl has a criminal history in Oregon for criminal mischief and arson. Neither have a criminal history in California.
Authorities did not provide a motive for why the man and woman were attempting to enter the evacuation zone allegedly posing as firefighters or if they were facing any charges in addition “impersonating firefighters.”
Investigators will be presenting the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration on Tuesday. Attached are photographs of the vehicle and gear recovered.Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the Major Crimes Bureau at 562-946-7893. If you prefer to remain anonymous, you may call “L.A. Crime Stoppers” at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
Oregon firefighters are playing a crucial role in Southern California, where last weekend, a heroic rescue by two Oregon firefighters saved the lives of an elderly couple trapped by the Palisades Fire.

The two firefighters, part of the Douglas County strike team, were searching for hotspots in remote areas when they made the life-saving discovery.
While checking the area, they came upon a home still standing and found an elderly couple inside. The husband had suffered severe second-degree burns—possibly third-degree burns—during the initial fire front. The firefighters immediately called for medical assistance and coordinated with other teams to evacuate the couple to safety.
“We made contact with the wife and asked if she needed any help,” said Kevin Comstock of the Roseburg Fire Department. “Through that process, we learned that her husband had suffered serious burns.”
With the fire still spreading in the area, the firefighters quickly called for additional resources to provide advanced life support (ALS) care. Due to the remote location, the couple was evacuated using a Stokes basket to safely transport the husband out of the area.
In addition to their heroic rescue, Oregon firefighters have been working on fire prevention measures in the area. Yesterday, strike teams from Rogue Valley created a shaded fuel break by removing some trees and vegetation. This helps slow the spread of the fire and gives firefighters a better chance to control it.
With wind conditions still a major concern, the Oregon teams remain on high alert. The firefighters are working 24-hour shifts to keep hotspots under control, and local authorities are continuing to assess the situation to determine when the teams will be released.
“It’s all worth it because that is the ultimate goal, to help provide life safety,” Comstock added. “And it feels good to accomplish that.”
Firefighters and equipment from every corner of Oregon came together to help in California, from Clatsop to Umatilla, Deschutes to Coos, and every county in between. This monumental effort showcases the strength and collaboration of the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System.
The 21 strike teams from Oregon, deployed to California, remain dedicated to containing the fire and ensuring the safety of residents and first responders in the area.
The Red Cross Cascades Region Is On The Ground In Los Angeles In The Wake Of Deadly And Destructive Wildfires
One week after wildfires ripped through the Los Angeles region, the Red Cross is still on the ground helping to provide shelter, feeding, reunification, health and mental health support, providing emergency supplies and more. We have over 400 volunteers supporting this relief operation.
The Red Cross Cascades Region (Oregon and SW Washington) has deployed 18 people.

People are still counting on us and the best way to support our work right now is by making a financial contribution. Please go to RedCross.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or text “CAWILDFIRES” to 90999 — If you want to donate items, you are asked to go to 211la.org
The Red Cross has a downloadable emergency app with information on how to prepare, respond to and recover from wildfires. In addition, the American Red Cross has activated the Northwest Response Fund to help impacted residents.
The Red Cross also provides disaster mental health support to people impacted by the fires. For people struggling with the stress and uncertainty of a crisis situation like this, they can reach out to the free 24/7 multilingual Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 for support. In some cases, there will be mental health workers at shelters as well.
Reunification is another area where the Red Cross works to help people affected by the fires. By calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and providing as much detail as possible about a missing loved one, the Red Cross may be able to assist.
After the immediate disaster has abated, the Red Cross will also aid with recovery. That can include financial support for those who lost their homes and are having trouble finding a place to live, a bus or train ticket to the home of a relative, or assistance with other agencies involved in the recovery process.
Providence’s Latest Offers a ‘Slap in the Face’ to Striking Caregivers
Providence tried to coerce members to return to work and cross the picket line. It’s a classic union-busting tactic. But it didn’t work. Strike lines are growing!
The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) has reviewed the most recent counterproposals from Providence, and these offers are nothing more than a slap in the face to the nearly 5,000 striking caregivers across the system.

Providence’s proposals do not show any meaningful movement on the core issues facing our nurses: fair wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions.
But most shocking is that Providence’s proposals have removed ratification bonuses—bonuses that Providence has been touting to the press and in radio ads as an example of their “generous offer” to striking caregivers to settle this dispute.
This is not negotiation; it’s punishment. It is also a violation of federal law, regressive bargaining and an unfair labor practice.
Providence claims publicly they are ready to negotiate but these proposals prove they are not serious about engaging in meaningful dialogue. It’s time to end this strike, not by punishing nurses and doctors with backwards proposals, but by coming to the table in good faith.
Providence’s priorities are crystal clear when you look at their executive compensation. In 2023, more than $177 million was paid to just 164 executives, as reflected in Providence’s publicly available financial filings. Among these executives were Rod Hochman, who retired at the end of 2024 and made $14.8 million in 2023, and Erik Wexler, who became CEO in 2025, who was previously making $5.2 million a year.
The contrast between the lavish pay for those at the top and the struggling conditions for those on the frontlines is a direct reflection of Providence’s failure to prioritize its workers and patients over excessive executive pay.
ONA wants to be 100% clear: bargaining is happening.
We are actively engaged in bargaining right now by exchanging proposals with the employer; in fact, ONA provided counterproposals to Providence within 18 hours. ONA is committed to bargaining in a way that is reflective of the urgency of the moment, and we are open to face-to-face meetings or Zoom sessions as needed to move the process forward, but we are engaged in bargaining now.
We just need a good faith partner to negotiate with.
5,000 frontline caregivers from eight hospitals and six clinics across Oregon went on strike for reasons beyond fair compensation, but a systemic crisis affecting patient care, staffing safety, health insurance benefits, and healthcare delivery. At the core of negotiation will be key issues that include:
- Resolution of systemic unsafe staffing issues documented across facilities
- Addressing health insurance and benefits disparities
- Implementation of necessary patient safety measures
- Market-competitive wages that will attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals.
A reminder to patients from doctors, nurses and caregivers: If you are sick, please do not delay getting medical care. Patients who need hospital or clinical care immediately should go to receive care. We would prefer to provide your care ourselves, but Providence executives’ refusal to continue meeting with caregivers has forced us onto the picket line to advocate for you, our communities, and our colleagues. Going into a hospital or clinic to get the care you need is NOT crossing our strike line. We invite you to come join us on the strike line after you’ve received the care you need. Community members can visit www.OregonRN.org/PatientsBeforeProfits to sign a petition to support frontline healthcare workers, get updates and find out how else they can help.
First Winning Powerball Jackpot of the Year Sold in Oregon
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The first Powerball jackpot of 2025, worth $328.5 million, was sold in Beaverton. The ticket for Saturday’s drawing was purchased on January 17 in the 97006 zip code.
The winner has a year to come forward and claim their prize. Once a claimant comes forward, it will take time before a winner can be identified due to security and payment processes.
Per state law, players in Oregon, with few exceptions, cannot remain anonymous. The largest Powerball prize previously won in Oregon was last year’s $1.3 billion jackpot split between a Portland man, his wife, and friend.
Approximately a third of sales from the game will be returned to state beneficiaries to support economic development, education, veteran services, state parks and more.
Retailers who sell lottery tickets also earn commissions from the boost in ticket sales and bonus payments for lower tier wins. For instance, an Oregon retailer who sells a $1 million ticket would earn a $10,000 bonus. The location of the retailer where the current ticket was sold will not be revealed until a winner has come forward due to security protocols.
The Powerball jackpot was last won in December when a ticket sold in New York that was worth $256 million. Powerball is a multi-state jackpot operated by 44 states, plus the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
The Oregon Lottery recommends that you always sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim your prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings.
Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned nearly $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.
Hundreds of people gathered at the Alton Baker Park in Eugene on Saturday for “The People’s March” ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration. Another march was hosted by the Party for Socialism and Liberation in Eugene and several other local and social action organizations on Sunday to protest “Trump’s Extreme Right, Billionaire Agenda.”


Protestors marched through downtown Eugene calling on the community to fight back against the incoming Trump administration.
Columbia County Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Wire Fraud Conspiracy and Illegally Dispensing Animal Drugs
A Columbia County, Oregon woman was sentenced to federal prison Thursday for her role in a conspiracy to defraud customers seeking to adopt pets and illegally dispensing prescription animal drugs without a lawful order of a veterinarian.
Samantha Miller, 55, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. The sum of restitution Miller must pay to her victims will be determined at a later date.
“Today’s sentence should make it clear to others engaged in unconscionable conduct that it will not be tolerated and they will be held responsible for their crimes,” said Hannah Horsley, Chief of the Economic Crimes Unit for the District of Oregon.
“The FDA regulates animal drugs as part of its mission to protect the public health, which includes ensuring that prescription animal drugs are lawfully obtained, distributed, and dispensed,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Iwanicki, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Los Angeles Field Office. “We will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who criminally attempt to evade the law.”
According to court documents, between November 2019 and January 2021, Miller and her co-conspirators, through their animal rescue business Woofin Palooza, LLC, conspired to obtain animals with health and behavioral problems from out-of-state shelters at no cost to offer for adoption to paying customers in Oregon. Once animals were transported to Portland, Miller did not provide the care needed by these animals through a licensed veterinarian. Instead, their medical issues were either ignored or Miller attempted to treat the animals herself by administering prescription animal drugs without supervision of a veterinarian.
As part of the scheme, Miller used the alias “Mandy Myers” to hide her true identity. Miller advertised animals for adoption on Woofin Palooza and Petfinder websites with misleading or false statements of the known medical and behavioral issues. When victims adopted a pet, Miller misrepresented the extent of health and behavioral issues in communications and contracts with the victims. In some instances, Miller dispensed prescription animal drugs to victims that she had repackaged with false or misleading labels and without the order of a licensed veterinarian. As a result, victims unknowingly adopted unhealthy and aggressive animals and were forced to seek veterinary care and training, including euthanasia, often incurring significant expenses.
On February 7, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 4-count superseding indictment charging Miller with conspiring to commit wire fraud, conspiring to misbrand drugs, and misbranding animal drugs by dispensing them without a lawful order of a veterinarian and by repackaging and relabeling them.
On October 24, 2024, Miller pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud and misbranding drugs by dispensing prescription animal drugs without a lawful order of a veterinarian.
This case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Robert S. Trisotto and Meredith D.M. Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
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.
You’ll need a Real ID to fly domestically, starting in May of 2025, that’s unless you have a passport or enhanced driver’s license issued by several states.

The deadline is May 7, 2025, but you probably don’t want to wait until the last minute to get your Real ID. You can apply for your Real ID driver’s license or ID card through your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Real IDs are marked with a star on the top of the card. Real IDs will also be needed to access certain federal facilities. Congress mandated the real IDs in 2005 on the recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.
Media contest invites Oregon high school students to promote young worker safety; entries due Feb. 21, 2025

Salem – High school students across Oregon are encouraged to put their video or graphic design skills on display by competing for cash prizes as part of a larger cause: increasing awareness about workplace safety and health for young workers.
The 2025 media contest, organized by the Oregon Young Employee Safety (O[yes]) Coalition, calls on participants to create an ad – through a compelling graphic design or video – that grabs their peers’ attention and convinces them to take the Young Employee Safety Awareness online training.
Participants get to choose the key message, theme, or tagline they believe will go furthest in capturing their audience and moving it to act. The target audience? Teen workers or teens who are preparing to work for the first time. The contest is now open for submissions. To compete, participants may submit either a graphic design or a video that is no more than 90 seconds in length.
Participants are expected to choose their key message, theme, or tagline in a wise and positive manner, including constructive and effective messages and language.
The top three entries in each of the two media categories will take home cash prizes ranging from $300 to $500. In each category, the first-place winner’s school, club, or organization will receive a matching award. Moreover, O[yes] will use the best of the submissions as ads in its ongoing efforts to improve on-the-job safety and health protections for teens.
While they carry out their projects, participants must ensure the health and safety of their team. No one should be endangered while creating their video or graphic design project.
The deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2025.
Participants are encouraged to submit entries online. Submissions may also be mailed on a USB thumb drive or delivered in person.
For more information about the entry form and rules, contest expectations, and resources – including previous contest winners – visit the O[yes] online contest page.
The contest sponsors are local Oregon chapters of the American Society of Safety Professionals, Construction Safety Summit, Central Oregon Safety & Health Association, Hoffman Construction Company, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Oregon OSHA, SafeBuild Alliance, SAIF Corporation, and the Oregon Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) Alliance.
### About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.
About the Oregon Young Employee Safety Coalition (O[yes]): (O[yes]) is a nonprofit dedicated to preventing young worker injuries and fatalities. O[yes] members include safety and health professionals, educators, employers, labor and trade associations, and regulators. Visit youngemployeesafety.org.
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



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