The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Oregon Beach Weather
Small Craft Advisory Issued: 8:26 AM Oct. 23, 2024 – National Weather Service
...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 2 PM THURSDAY TO 2 AM PDT FRIDAY... * WHAT...North winds 15 to 20 kt with gusts up to 30 kt and seas 4 to 7 ft at 6 seconds expected. * WHERE...South of Cape Arago. * WHEN...From 2 PM Thursday to 2 AM PDT Friday. * 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
Seasonal Climate Forecast October – December 2024
https://www.oregon.gov/oda/programs/naturalresources/documents/weather/dlongrange.pdf
A La Niña winter is coming. Here’s what that could mean for the US
We’re not out of the woods just yet… DON’T LET YOUR GUARD DOWN – While the fire season is slowing down, it is not yet over, and fire officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and cautious. Check Conditions
Mother of Waldport Woman Killed In January Crash With Yachats Ambulance Files $6 Million Lawsuit
The mother of a 25-year-old Waldport woman killed in a collision with a Yachats ambulance in January has filed a $6 million lawsuit against the Yachats Rural Fire Protection District and the private, nonprofit ambulance company that it staffs.
Kelsey R. Seibel Waldport died and Fokus Simmons, 16, of Waldport, was severely injured Jan. 11 when her northbound car ran into the side of the South Lincoln Ambulance as it was leaving the fire district station and pulling onto U.S. Highway 101 on the north edge of Yachats.
The lawsuit claims that Yachats firefighter/paramedic Casey Wittmier drove directly in front of Seibel’s Kia Soul and had not activated the ambulance’s overhead lights and siren when he pulled out from the station’s driveway onto Highway 101. An Oregon State Police investigation quoted Wittmier as having turned on the lights but not the siren.
Under a year-to-year contract between the fire district and the nonprofit ambulance organization, the ambulance is staffed by Yachats fire district firefighter/paramedics. It is believed to be the only such type of arrangement in Oregon.
The fire department’s two administrators, Frankie Petrick and Shelby Knife, also control the ambulance nonprofit as its secretary and president. It’s a decades-long arrangement that has brought a growing unease to a minority of the five-member fire board the last few years.
The lawsuit is not a surprise. In February, lawyers for Stocker and Simmons filed state-required tort claim notices that they intended to sue the fire district and ambulance company. Simmons’ attorneys have not yet filed any lawsuits.
Lawyers for Seibel’s mother, Heidi Stocker of Waldport, filed the lawsuit Oct. 16 in Lincoln County circuit court. She is represented Yaquina Law in Newport, whose attorneys asked for a jury trial.
Two days later the attorneys for South Lincoln Ambulance filed a response and cross-claim against the fire district contending the district’s board agreed in its yearly contract to hold the ambulance service “harmless for claims resulting from the actions of the YRFPD, its agents, employees and volunteers” and that the district and its employees failed to perform their obligations in the January wreck.
South Lincoln Ambulance’s motion was filed by Sheer Law of Seattle and asked for the nonprofit to be dismissed from the lawsuit. But if it was not, the lawyers said the fire district should have to pay any claims that the dead woman’s family might be awarded from it.
Petrick, as secretary of the ambulance nonprofit, and Katherine Guenther, as chair of the fire district board, both said Tuesday they could not comment on the lawsuit.
In the eight months since receiving the tort claim notice, the fire district’s board has not discussed the potential lawsuit or its implications for the district with its lawyers.
Collision on Highway 101 – The accident occurred at 5:16 p.m. Jan. 11 as the ambulance was responding to a priority call at Sea Aire Assisted Living Center just to the south of the Yachats fire station.
In a report by state police Trooper Nathan Goody, Wittmier said the ambulance was at the end of the driveway with no traffic approaching from the north and Seibel’s car approaching from the south.
“The Kia started to drive over the white line and it seemed to Wittmier the Kia had time to stop,” Goody wrote in his report. “The Kia had been over the white line for a few seconds. Wittmier checked back and forth before starting to pull out of the driveway onto U.S .101 to turn left to drive southbound. The Kia drove back from over the white line and back into the northbound lane of traffic. The Kia kept moving northbound and Wittmier tried to get the ambulance out of the way of the Kia. It seemed to Wittmier the driver of the Kia didn’t apply the brakes.”
Goody also interviewed Yachats firefighter/paramedic Mo Larmi, who was in the ambulance’s passenger seat.
“Prior to the collision, Larmi heard Wittmier exclaim about an oncoming vehicle,” Goody wrote in his report.
After the collision, Larmi said Wittmier told him that he “saw the Kia pull over the white line,” Goody said in his report. “Prior to the collision, Larmi was looking to his right to observe oncoming traffic southbound on U.S. 101. Larmi observed southbound traffic was ‘heeding our lights.’ Larmi saw the northbound Kia’s lights and it seemed to Larmi the Kia was pulling over to the side of the road. Larmi heard Wittmier say something to the effect of ‘Oh shit they’re gonna hit us’.”
The broadside collision lifted the ambulance off the ground, Goody’s report said.
The police investigation – Seibel died at the scene. Simmons was taken to the hospital in Corvallis where he remained for months. He is now back in the Waldport area but requiring constant care because of traumatic brain injuries.
Seibel had two children, boys age 5 and 3, when she died.
State police said neither were wearing seatbelts and Seibel’s Kia Soul’s airbags did not deploy.
Later that night, the state police investigation said, the staff at a Newport funeral home found a container with what was later determined to be crystal methamphetamine in Seibel’s clothes.
The state police report released to YachatsNews in a public records request has no mention of a toxicology report on Seibel or Simmons, but one was conducted by the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s office.
Whether the ambulance had its lights on is a matter of dispute.
The lawsuit says Wittmier never stopped the ambulance at the end of the driveway before entering the highway “nor did he activate the ambulance’s overhead lights or siren prior to the crash.”
The day after the accident, Wittmier told investigators that he turned on the ambulance’s overhead lights about 240 feet before the end of the fire station’s driveway. “He did not use his siren because of past complaints from the neighbors,” the police investigation said.
Immediately after the crash, Wittmier told police he turned off the power module switch in the ambulance but did not turn off the ignition.
Wade Kolar of Yachats, a retired California firefighter, heard of the crash on a scanner he monitors and got to the scene before any emergency responders, the investigation report said. He saw that the emergency lights for the ambulance were off, so reached into the cab and activated a master switch that turned on both the overhead lights and outside floodlights that illuminated the crash scene.
State police said in their report that they could not substantiate a tip from Stocker’s sister that a resident at Sea Aire had seen the ambulance leave the station without its lights on.
In asking for $6 million in damages, lawyers for Stocker say while Seibel “drove at a reasonable speed and remained in her appropriate lane of travel,” the ambulance was at fault for failing to yield the right of way when entering Highway 101 “when Ms. Seibel’s vehicle was approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard” and that the ambulance failed to activate its lights and siren “without first waiting for traffic to clear the intersection prior to entering the highway.”
The lawsuit also faulted the district and ambulance company “in adopting or acquiescing to an unwritten policy of not activating an emergency vehicle’s siren near the Yachats Main Fire Station even when proceeding onto the highway …”
No court hearings have been scheduled on the lawsuit, but Stocker’s lawyers asked that the fire district and ambulance company respond within 30 days of their filings. (SOURCE)
Florence Woman Who Set Car On Fire With Child Inside Sentenced To Probation
According to court records, a mother in Florence who lit a car on fire with her child inside was sentenced on Monday, but will not be going to jail.
Back on August 6, Lane County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Oregon State Police troopers responded to a reported dispute on south Jetty Road near Florence. Court records said authorities arrived to find Lindsey Abigail Williston, 40, had left her two small children home alone earlier that day, which led to an argument with the children’s father.
When he showed up to pick the kids up that evening, Williston set a fire in the front seat of his SUV with her five-year-old still in the back seat. She then took her four-year-old inside the home and refused to come out. Court records said she fought with responding police, and even sprayed an officer with a fire extinguisher when he rescued the child through a window.
Williston was eventually arrested and jailed. She pleaded guilty on October 21 to charges of resisting arrest, reckless burning and recklessly endangering another person. She also pleaded guilty to burglary and theft charges for a separate unrelated case. Williston was sentenced to three years of probation and 30 days in jail. However, she received credit for time served, and has spent more than 30 days in jail since her arrest, so she will not be going back to jail as a result of the sentence.
Lincoln County Multi-Agency Crash Team Investigates Traffic Fatality
On October 22rd, 2024, at approximately 1:55 PM, a Lincoln City Police Department Officer observed a female lying in the street next to an electric bicycle at the intersection of SE 9th St and Highway 101. The Officer began to render assistance as 911 calls about the incident were being received.
North Lincoln Fire & Rescue and Pacific West Ambulance personnel also responded; however, 47-year-old Danielle Wolff of Lincoln City ultimately succumbed to her injuries and passed at the scene. The involved motor vehicle operator, who immediately called 911 to summon assistance, has fully cooperated with the investigation of the incident.
Members of the Lincoln County Multi-Agency Crash Team, representing each of the law enforcement agencies in the County, the District Attorney’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation, assisted with the investigation, which is on-going at this time.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, and encourage all members of our community to observe Oregon’s Traffic Safety laws during their daily commutes.
Traffic Violation Leads To Eluding & Arrest in Coos County
On 10/21/2024, at approximately 08:15 hours, Deputies Z. Smith and Converse were patrolling the Libby Lane area. Both Deputies observed a white Ford F-150 fail to obey a traffic control device at a controlled intersection.
Deputies Z. Smith and Converse turned around to initiate a Traffic Stop on the Ford pickup by turning on their emergency lights, as it attempted to Elude them, turning onto Red Dyke at a high rate of speed for the residential area and driving down the center of the road. The Ford pickup lost control and crashed into a fence, as well as a power-pole causing heavy damage. The driver, later identified as James Merchant (30), took off from the crash scene on foot, leaving the female passenger and her dog in the crashed vehicle. Deputies observed Merchant flee on foot, as they ordered him to stop running, but he continued.
Merchant was quickly located and taken into custody without further incident. During a search of Merchant’s person, suspected Methamphetamine and Cocaine were located. After supplying Merchant’s information to North Coos Dispatch, they confirmed Merchant to have active Warrants for his arrest.
Merchant was arrested and transported to the Coos County Jail for the Warrants and additional requested charges of Elude (vehicle & foot), Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, Hit & Run – Property Damage, Criminal Mischief 1 (x2), Escape 3 and possession of Methamphetamine & Cocaine. Merchant was booked and lodged on those charges, as well as a Detainer from his Parole Officer. “Police action is not indicative of guilt. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”
Governor Kotek Releases Statement on $25 Million Award for Port of Coos Bay
Governor Kotek released a statement on the $25 million award to the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay from the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects program (INFRA) through the U.S. Department of Transportation for the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) Terminal Planning Project.
This award will advance environmental review, permitting, and preliminary engineering and design for the intermodal terminal component of the larger PCIP project, including the railyard, container yard, wharf, and berths.
“When I visited with the Port of Coos Bay staff last year on the One Oregon Listening Tour, I was reminded of just how vital our state’s ports are to the economic growth and prosperity of our communities. Today’s exciting award announcement marks a critical step in the effort to establish a vital intermodal gateway for west coast imports and exports at the Port of Coos Bay,” Governor Kotek said. “Thanks to the leadership of Congresswoman Val Hoyle and our federal delegation, we are unlocking opportunities to alleviate highway congestion by modernizing infrastructure and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
“I am thrilled today that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded over $25 million for the Port of Coos Bay Intermodal Project,” U.S. Representative Val Hoyle said. “This project has the potential to bring over 8,000 jobs to Southwest Oregon’s coastal communities and to strengthen our nation’s supply chain. Today’s announcement brings us one step closer to rebuilding the South Coast as an economic engine for the state and introduces more pathways to the middle class.” She added, “I would like to thank Secretary Buttigieg, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the White House, and my partners in Congress for their support and persistence to help bring this project closer to fruition.”
The Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) Terminal Planning Project will be designed to move nearly 100% of in and outbound containers by rail for land slide movements and utilize electrification or other green energy source for moving containers within the yard. This project will provide additional capacity for imports, create a new gateway for U.S. exports, and is anticipated to generate a significant economic impact in rural Oregon.
Additional information on the project can be found here.
Oregon State Police Investigating Officer Involved Shooting in Lincoln County
On Saturday, October 19th,2024, at approximately 12:22 p.m., the Lincoln City Police Department responded to report of a domestic disturbance between a male and female at the Motel 6, located at 3517 NW Highway 101, in Lincoln City, OR. Officers responded to the motel, identified the suspect, and discovered outstanding warrants for his arrest. The occupants of the room also appeared to be associated with a stolen vehicle located in the parking lot of the hotel.
At approximately 13:04 p.m., Lincoln City Police officers contacted the male suspect in the hotel room and he was noncompliant. During the contact, the suspect had two firearms in his waistband which he reached for and was shot by officers.
First aid was rendered at the scene and the suspect was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The suspect’s identification has not been released due to difficulties in making next of kin notification.
Per the Lincoln County Deadly Force Response Plan under Senate Bill 111, the Lincoln County Major Crime Team was activated for the investigation and the Oregon State Police has taken the role of the lead investigating agency. The Oregon State Police is being assisted by the Newport Police Department, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln City Police Department, the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office, and the Lincoln County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Coos Bay Sidewalk Replacement Project Starts Today
The City of Coos Bay Public Works Department has contracted with Freedom Builders, to replace the sidewalk between S. 6th Street & S. 7th Street on Anderson Avenue. Work will also include the addition of storm drain improvements and the removal and replanting of trees.
Work will begin the morning of October 21, 2024 and is expected to be completed in the middle of December. To complete the work, traffic control will be in place for vehicles and pedestrians. Please follow the direction of traffic control signage and please slow down and take caution when near the construction zone. Should you have any questions or want more information, please contact Greg Hamblet at (541) 269-1181 ext. 3541 or email ghamblet@coosbayor.gov.
Coast Guard May Discontinue Sound Signal at Yaquina Bay
The Coast Guard sound signal located on the South Jetty of Yaquina Bay has been part of the coastal ambiance for many years. Most people are quite familiar with the echoing sound emanating from the signal, serving as a way of guiding mariners back to port.
The U.S. Coast Guard Aids To Navigation Team installs the sound signal each spring, and then removes it in the fall so that it isn’t damaged in the winter storms. However, Coast Guard officials announced plans last February to discontinue the sound signal, saying that this would be its last season. The sound signal at Umpqua River was also scheduled to be discontinued.
According to a statement issued earlier this year by the Coast Guard, “The decision to discontinue these sound signals aligns with ongoing efforts to modernize and optimize navigational systems. The U.S. Coast Guard is a maritime, military, multi-mission service operating under the Department of Homeland Security. Its primary responsibility is the safety and security of the maritime public, including environmental stewardship and enforcing maritime laws.”
Mariners and community members were encouraged to provide comments about these upcoming changes, as well as performance and operation of the aids to navigation.
The Lincoln County Leader reached out to the Coast Guard recently for an update on the plans for the sound signals, to verify whether this was, in fact, the last season they would be used. Thomas Booth, with the 13th Coast Guard District Waterways Management Branch, said in an email last week, “There has not been a firm decision on the sound signal at Newport. They are still analyzing and mulling it over as the major mariners there (NOAA and the commercial fishing fleet) have not responded.” In fact, he said the Coast Guard didn’t receive input from anyone regarding the sound signal at Yaquina Bay. (SOURCE)
A free concert, free treats and the spooky-cute spectacle of kids in costumes will raise spirits (the good kind) in Yachats and Waldport on Saturday, Oct. 26.
Because Oct. 31 is the following Thursday, Halloween will get an early celebration in both towns, starting with a free afternoon concert in the Yachats Commons and ending at night with Waldport’s annual “Trunk or Treat” car-and-candy event.
It’ll be a day-long chance for zombies, superheroes and Taylor Swifties to safely have ghoulishly-good times.
Free concert, 2 p.m., Yachats Commons. The Pacific Coast Wind Ensemble will feature shivery seasonal sections from “March of the Trolls” to tunes from “The Nightmare Before Christmas” plus a little Dixieland to brighten things up towards the end.
The concert is a benefit for Yachats Youth and Family Activities, the city’s childcare and education center. Donations are welcome. Young ones are invited to attend around 2:30 p.m. in costume and at intermission will be invited to show off their garb and grab a treat.
The ensemble is comprised of about 40 musicians from Lincoln City to Florence to Eugene.
“Halloween Spooktacular” around Yachats, 3-5 p.m. YYFAP is sponsoring three Halloween activities for families to safely gather to collect goodies. A “Spooky Trail” will begin at the Yachats Ladies Club where treats will be handed out in conjunction with YYFAP. The trail will end at a Trunk or Treat event in the Commons parking lot.
Finally, trick-or-treating will be offered by participating businesses around the city. YYFAP announced that maps will be released before Saturday via social media and on the organization’s website.
Businesses that want to be a stop along the Trick or Treat trail, or those who want to reserve a spot in the Trunk or Treat event, may call YYFAP at 541-547-4599, or email yyfapdirector@gmail.com.
Waldport’s Trunk or Treat, 6-7:30 p.m. in the parking lots of the Central Oregon Coast Fire & Rescue main station in downtown Waldport. Presented by Waldport’s Beachcomber Days, the annual car-and-candy party traditionally features decorated vehicles from community organizations and private individuals.
Adults are encouraged to wear a costume and distribute candy to trick-or-treaters. For more details, call or text 541-270-5752.
Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Looking For Suspect in Sandstone Cliff Vandalism
Officials with the Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge are asking for the community’s help identifying the person or persons responsible for vandalizing a rock face recently.
According to the refuge, the names ‘Luke’ and ‘Niko’ were carved deep into a sandstone headland, which is located on public land. The refuge says the rock that was vandalized is on a section of beach between the cities of Gold Beach and Brookings.
Vandalism on public lands is illegal, and penalties include fines and jail time. Anyone with information or
knows who is responsible, is asked to contact the Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge by emailing oregoncoast@fws.gov.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Seeking community feedback on Oregon State Parks in Curry County
CURRY COUNTY, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking to understand how Curry County residents and visitors would like to enjoy and conserve the 20 state parks in Curry County through an online survey and three public meetings this month.
This feedback is the first of several opportunities to provide input during the two-year process to update the Curry County State Parks Master Plan adopted in 2003. The master planning process is an opportunity to assess natural, cultural and recreation resources as well as management goals and community needs.
The draft master plan is slated to be finished in late 2025 and will provide a 20-year vision with a menu of options that can be implemented over time as funds become available.
The public is invited to share feedback on how they use state parks in Curry County now as well as opportunities for the future. Options to provide feedback include:
Online
- Survey runs now through Nov. 15: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QMBPQC5
- Online meeting noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28. Advance registration is required: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYpc-GorTIuHNZOIlBjaG8WZZOlgud19uFa#/registration
In-person meetings
- Noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at Southwestern Oregon Community College, 96082 Lone Ranch Pkwy, Brookings
- 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at Port Orford Public Library, 1421 Oregon St, Port Orford
During each meeting, OPRD will share information about the master planning process and offer opportunities for community feedback and questions.
Oregon State Parks properties in Curry County include Cape Blanco, Humbug Mountain, Otter Point, Cape Sebastian, Pistol River, Samuel H. Boardman, Harris Beach, Crissey Field, Alfred A. Loeb and several others.
Once OPRD gathers this initial feedback, staff will incorporate it into the plan development. There will be additional opportunities to provide feedback during the planning phase and then again when the draft plan is available.
The draft master plan will balance the feedback received from stakeholders throughout the planning process. The management goals, strategies and development concepts proposed will incorporate priorities and concerns heard throughout the process.
Once the final draft master plan is complete, it will be be presented to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for adoption.
For more details and information, follow the draft master planning process on our website: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/28dcf2137d3a4edfbe647ed660de3091
Rhododendron Festival Selects Winner of 2025 Theme and Calls for Entries to Logo Design
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce has announced its selection of “Rhodies on the River” submitted by Milana Peerson of Florence as the theme for the 119th Rhododendron Festival May 15 to 18, 2025.
Peerson wins a $100 cash prize, bragging rights, and a place in Rhododendron Festival’s long and storied history, the Chamber said.
A “rhody” or “rhodies” are a local nickname for the prevalent rhododendron flower that thrives in the region.
Now that the theme is chosen, the Chamber will open a public contest for a design of the 119th Rhododendron Festival logo. A form is available on the Florence Chamber website. The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce annually seeks the public’s input on a theme and logo for its long running event held each year on the third full weekend of May.
“We were looking for a theme to help us celebrate our local natural beauty and our floral superstars—something that entices people from all around to come celebrate with us the second-longest running floral festival in Oregon,” said Bettina Hannigan, the Chamber’s president and CEO. “Milana’s idea really bloomed for us. You can easily hear the musical parallel to Tina Turner’s or Creedence Clearwater Revival’s versions of Rollin’ On the River.”
“Generations of families have enjoyed all the fun of the Florence Rhododendron Festival. It’s a family tradition, an Oregon institution. And it is Oregon’s second-oldest floral festival, bested only by a year by the Portland Rose Festival. Every year we see thousands of visitors from around the state and across the country,” Hannigan said.
While announcing the 2025 theme, the Chamber also issued a call for entries for a logo design.
Amateur and professional graphic designers are encouraged to submit a logo design to fit the theme. The designer of the selected logo will win $250. Designs must incorporate the rhododendron flower, an element representative of the Florence area (river, bridge, ocean, beach, lakes, dunes or lighthouse for example), along with the theme and “119th Rhododendron Festival 2025, Florence, Oregon.” Details of the logo contest are available at FlorenceChamber.com. Entries are to be emailed to info@FlorenceChamber.com by November 1, 2024, with the subject line “2025 Logo Contest.”
Tourism in Florence accounted for a $269 million infusion to the local economy in 2023 and just over half of all local jobs, the Chamber said. The festival opens Saturday night, May 10 (the weekend prior) with the coronation of Queen Rhododendra, the King of the Coast, and their royal court at the Florence Events Center. The Davis Shows Carnival at the Port of Siuslaw property in Old Town opens on Thursday of “Rhody Week.” Saturday traditionally features the annual 5K Rhody Run and Walk, the junior parade and kids’ activities, the annual Rhody Classic Car Show ‘n’ Shine, and the Coast Radio KCST/KCFM Classic Car Cruise through Old Town. Sunday brings the grand floral parade down Highway 101 at noon and into Historic Old Town next to the carnival. Throughout the event there will be a vendor’s fair in Old Town, a spectacular rhododendron show at the Florence Events Center, and live music, art, and other festivities and activities all over town.
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
McDonald’s Shares Drop After Food Poisoning Outbreak
The outbreak began between September 27 and October 11 and has affected people in Oregon, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Colorado reported the most cases at 26, followed by Nebraska with nine.
McDonald’s shares fell by 9% in after-hours trading after the E. coli food poisoning outbreak was announced by the CDC.
Investigators found that everyone who became ill had eaten at McDonald’s before feeling unwell, with most of them mentioning that they ate Quarter Pounder hamburgers. Health officials from the CDC, U.S. Agriculture Department (USDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and several states are still investigating the outbreak.
The actual number of people affected is probably much higher, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and may not be limited to the 10 states with known illnesses.
It usually takes three to four weeks after eating an E. coli-infected food for symptoms to manifest. For this reason, the CDC says the outbreak could have infected more people, while other cases go undocumented as people can recover without the need for medical attention.
Investigations now reveal that slivered onion in fresh McDonald’s quarter pounders could have caused the outbreak in which one elderly person from Colorado died, and 10 others from other states were hospitalized.
While the exact cause is still unknown, officials are focusing on two possible culprits: onions and fresh beef. The FDA suspects that slivered onions used on the burgers may be the source of contamination, while the USDA is looking into the hamburger patties as a potential cause.
McDonald’s has responded by halting the distribution of slivered onions from a specific supplier. The company has also removed the Quarter Pounder from menus in the affected states and parts of Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, as a precaution.
- coli is a type of bacteria found in the guts of animals and the environment. It can cause severe symptoms, including fever, stomach cramps, and bloody diarrhea. People experiencing these symptoms after eating a McDonald’s should seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider about their recent meals.
- coli infections are especially dangerous for children under 5 years old, as they can lead to acute kidney failure.
More INFO — https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/outbreaks/investigation-update-e-coli-o157-2024.html
Zuberi Defense Lawyer Says He’ll Appeal Federal Kidnap, Sex and Weapons Convictions
he lead defense lawyer for a Klamath Falls man now convicted of federal kidnapping, sex and weapons charges says his client Negasi Zuberi is appealing his conviction.
Medford lawyer Michael Bertholf states they are appealing Friday’s jury verdicts of “guilty” for convictions on seven federal criminal counts. The attorney said, “There were some pretrial issues that we litigated, and they need to be appealed and have the Ninth Circuit decide if Judge McShane made appropriate rulings.”
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Michael McShane presided over 30-year-old Zuberi’s two week federal court trial in Medford as Zuberi and his defense counsel challenged accusations that Zuberi impersonated police when he kidnapped two women in 2023 on separate occasions and raped them, using a taser, handcuffs, leg irons and a gun, bringing federal kidnapping, sex, weapon and ammunition charges.
“This case was an exceptionally complex case. It was a very emotional case, emotionally charged, very emotional, and very complex. And still not done.”
Bertholf says he’s working on a sentencing memo for Judge McShane’s pre-sentencing report, “That’s what we’ll be presenting at the sentencing, Mr. Zuberi’s life story.” He says Zuberi will stay at the Jackson County jail until sentencing January 16, 2025, when he faces life imprisonment for his kidnapping convictions.
“His conditions right now are standard jail conditions. He’s in the general population, so he’s not in isolation,” said Bertholf. “He is as confined and as free as any general population inmate at the Jackson County Jail, which is, they don’t have a lot of freedom.”
Zuberi’s defense attorney also said, “The government has not indicated whether or not they intend to file any other charges, and I’m currently unaware of any secretly filed charges.” When the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced Zuberi’s arrest in July 2023, it thought he might have other victims in perhaps four other states.
Bertholf says Zuberi has two pending criminal charges, with one in Klamath County Circuit Court for a state-level charge for AV2’s charged abduction and a federal escape charge as a separate federal case now after it had been part of Zuberi’s kidnapping case indictment. That charge became a federal count after the Jackson County District Attorney had filed a state-level attempted escape charge against Zuberi for an incident at the Jackson County Jail, then dismissed it. Jackson County Jail is holding Zuberi in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
10/22/2023 —- Jury Convicts Klamath Falls Man Who Kidnapped and Sexually Assaulted Two Women and Held One in Cell
MEDFORD, Ore.— A federal jury found a Klamath Falls, Oregon man guilty after he kidnapped and sexually assaulted two women, and held one in a cell he constructed in his garage.
Negasi Zuberi, 30, also known as Justin Joshua Hyche, was found guilty of kidnapping, transporting a victim for criminal sexual activity, and illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on July 15, 2023, while in Seattle, Zuberi posed as a police officer and used a taser and handcuffs to detain his victim in the backseat of his vehicle. Zuberi then transported the victim approximately 450 miles to his home in Klamath Falls, stopping along the way to sexually assault her.
When Zuberi arrived at his residence, he moved the victim from his vehicle into a cell he had constructed in his garage.The woman repeatedly banged on the cell door until it broke open and she escaped. The victim retrieved a handgun from Zuberi’s vehicle, fled his garage, and flagged down a passing motorist who called 911.
The next day, on July 16, 2023, Reno Police Department officers and Nevada State Patrol officers located Zuberi in a parking lot in Reno, Nevada. After a short standoff, Zuberi surrendered to law enforcement and was taken into custody.
While investigating Zuberi’s crimes, federal agents discovered that approximately six weeks prior to the kidnapping in Seattle, on May 6, 2023, Zuberi kidnapped and sexually assaulted another victim. While being held by Zuberi, his first victim observed stacked cinder blocks in his garage that he later used to construct the cell where he detained his second victim.
On August 2, 2023, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Zuberi with kidnapping and transporting a victim with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. Later, on February 15, 2024, a second kidnapping charge and charges for illegallypossessing firearms and ammunitionand attempted escape were added by superseding indictment.
Kidnapping is punishable by up to life in federal prison and transporting a victim across state lines with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity by up to 10 years. Illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and attempted escape are punishable by up to 15 years.
This case was investigated by the FBI Portland Field Office, Klamath Falls Police Department, and Oregon State Police with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada;Klamath County District Attorney’s Office; Reno, Nevada Police Department; Washoe County,Nevada District Attorney’s Office; and Nevada State Police. It was prosecuted by Jeffrey S. Sweet, Marco A. Boccato, and Nathan J. Lichvarcik, AssistantU.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon, with assistance from Appellate Chief Suzanne Miles, also of the Districtof Oregon.
Since the outdoor burning restrictions were lifted in many Oregon counties – New Fire starts are daily due to outdoor burning piles causing grass fires.
Please use caution 85% of all wildfires are human caused. Oregon still has over 70 fires and for most counties the fire season is not over yet.
Preventing wildfires requires a collective effort from everyone—help mitigate the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our forests and communities.
Monitor Fires in Oregon – Updated Daily
Large Fires in Oregon Past 2 Weeks 10/21/24 8:00am per INCIWEB
ncident | Type | State | Incident Size | UpdatedSort ascending |
---|---|---|---|---|
Rail Ridge – OROCF | Wildfire | Oregon | 176619 Acres | 15 minutes 21 seconds ago |
Bachelor Complex Fires – ORDEF | Wildfire | Oregon | 15525 Acres | 19 hours 47 minutes ago |
Red Fire – ORDEF | Wildfire | Oregon | 3060 Acres | 1 day 20 hours ago |
Tiger Creek Fire – ORUMF | Wildfire | Oregon | 534 Acres | 1 day 22 hours ago |
Bingham Fire – ORWIF | Wildfire | Oregon | 199 Acres | 1 week ago |
Willamette Complex Fires – South – ORWIF | Wildfire | Oregon | 31296 Acres | 1 week 1 day ago |
Homestead Complex – ORUPF | Wildfire | Oregon | 11073 Acres | 1 week 6 days ago |
Diamond Complex – ORUPF | Wildfire | Oregon | 11141 Acres | 1 week 6 days ago |
Lane 1 Fire – OR77S | Wildfire | Oregon | 25952 Acres | 1 week 6 days ago |
North Willamette Complex – ORWIF | Wildfire | Oregon | 5492 Acres | 2 weeks ago |
Sandstone Fire – ORMHF | Wildfire | Oregon | 702 Acres | 2 weeks 1 day ago |
Whisky Creek Fire – ORMHF | Wildfire |
https://app.watchduty.org/
Please Help Prevent Wildfires! In these dry conditions, a single spark can cause a lot of damage. Learn how you can prevent wildfires by visiting the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention page.
Oregon Citizen-Soldiers prepare for overseas mission in Egypt
SALEM, Ore. – A mobilization ceremony for the Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment (1-186th) will be held at Raider Stadium on the campus of Southern Oregon University, in Ashland, Oregon at 11:00 a.m., on Sunday October 20, 2024.
Nearly 205 Citizen-Soldiers will be part of a Multinational Force and Observers Mission in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. The unit’s primary mission will be to supervise the implementation of the security provisions of the Egyptian-Israeli Treaty of Peace and employ best efforts to prevent violation of any of its terms.
“Citizen-Soldiers from Southern Oregon have a rich tradition of stepping up when called upon,” said Oregon Army National Guard Col. Paul Dyer, commander (rear), 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team. “The 1-186 Infantry proudly represents so many incredible communities from Roseburg to Ashland, and I cannot thank the local communities enough for their overwhelming support as the unit continues to add to their storied legacy.”
The 1-186th Infantry Regiment has previously mobilized to support both homeland and overseas missions to include: Security augmentation for the 2021 Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C., COVID-19 operational support in Oregon, and federal deployments supporting Overseas Contingency Operations in the Horn of Africa from 2019-2020, in Afghanistan from 2014-2015, and in Iraq from 2009-2010.
Detectives Investigate Fatal Shooting in Scottsburg
– Detectives are investigating a fatal shooting incident that occurred on Monday in Scottsburg.
On Monday, October 21, 2024, at approximately 12:00 pm, deputies were responding to a reported criminal mischief and assault in the 5000 block of Lutsinger Creek Road.
While deputies were responding, 9-1-1 dispatchers received additional calls from the residents in the area reporting the incident was escalating and reports of gunshots heard.
When deputies arrived, they located 58-year-old Darrel Dow Dodd unconscious with apparent gunshot wounds. Deputies attempted lifesaving efforts, which were unsuccessful.
Detectives with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Douglas County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene.
Through the investigation, it was learned that Dodd was armed with a weapon, had broken into a residence and began assaulting and strangling a female known to him while threatening to stab her. Another individual attempted to intervene, but Dodd continued his attack. Dodd was shot twice by a third individual.
Detectives are currently investigating the incident as a case of justified defense of another person, based upon the evidence and circumstances of the incident, although the investigation is ongoing. Once the investigation is complete, it will be forwarded to the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Nationwide Shortage of IV Fluids Forces Oregon Health and Science University to Postpone Surgeries
Hurricane Helene knocked an IV factory offline, forcing the Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) to postpone 108 surgeries last week.
The nationwide shortage of IV fluid is expected to continue for another four to six weeks, according to the OHSU Interim CEO, John Ness.
The Baxter International factory in North Carolina produces about 50 percent of the IV fluids used in hospitals around the country.
At a public meeting on Friday, Ness said the OHSU relies on Baxter for its IV fluids, making it one of the most vulnerable hospitals in Oregon. Other healthcare organizations, like Kaiser and Legacy Health, obtain IV fluids from a different supplier.
Dextrose, electrolytes and saline are in short supply and are the most used fluids given to patients during surgery, in intensive care, or when receiving treatment in emergency wards.
Ness told the public meeting that the next four to six weeks would be challenging, while Sara Hottman, a spokesperson for the OHSU, said about 25 percent of non-urgent surgical procedures would have to be rescheduled.
Operations placed on hold include bariatric surgeries, and hernia and joint repairs. The OHSU will communicate directly with affected patients.
Meanwhile, Baxter is using a rationing system to distribute its remaining stock of IV fluids to its customer-base. The company managed to salvage 450 truckloads of IV fluids from warehouses and its flooded North Carolina factory.
Legacy Health has supplied the OHSU with some fluids and confirmed that it would continue to help health partners wherever possible. Legacy said it keeps a backup supply of IV fluids for emergencies.
The federal government has also come to the rescue. It has relaxed some of its production regulations and is working alongside Baxter to airlift IV solutions from various production factories overseas.
Name Our K-9 Contest – OSP launches youth contest to name our new K-9
– There’s a new furry recruit at Oregon State Police. She’s excited to join her handler on Oregon’s highways, and we need your help to give her an official name that is paw-some!
Oregon youth, kindergarten through 5th grade, send in your ulti-mutt name for our fur-ever friend. The winning entry will be recognized with a round of a-paws and other fun prizes.
Contest Rules:
- Complete an entry form between Oct. 17-27, 2024.
- The contest is open to Oregon youth from kindergarten through 5th grade.
- One entry per student.
- Five names from the submitted entries will be selected to move forward for statewide voting.
- The student with the winning name entry will get to meet the K-9 and other recognition from OSP.
- The school with the most participants will also be recognized by OSP.
Who’s ready fur some treats! Learn more about our new K-9: https://youtu.be/3naO1tVKz2M
The K-9 is a two-year-old female Belgian Malinois from Blackwood Canine who is certified through the Oregon Police K-9 Association as a drug detection dog. She and her handler, Sr. Trooper Scott Show, are assigned to the Albany Patrol Office for drug detection along Interstate 5 and throughout the state.
Sr. Trooper Show said, “I’m excited to have Oregon youth involved in naming our K-9. Kids come up with the best animal names and I’ll be happy with whatever they choose.”
The contest opens at noon on Oct. 17, 2024, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 27, 2024. Entries must be received via OSP’s online entry form: https://bit.ly/OSP_K9Contest.
State agencies release synthetic opioid prevention lessons, updated fentanyl toolkit for Oregon schools
Lessons and Toolkit help districts educate students about fentanyl and opioid dangers, and develop policies and practices for substance use prevention and response
— As fentanyl keeps showing up in a variety of drugs on the illicit market, state agencies are continuing their effort to help Oregon educators engage with students about the drug’s dangers – and preventing and responding to fentanyl overdoses – with the release of synthetic opioid prevention lessons and an updated Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools.
“The dangers of fentanyl have no age boundaries,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “We must support the critical role that schools play in substance use prevention and intervention for students. The updated lesson plans and toolkit are a result of multiple state agencies coming together to collaborate on how we can best protect young Oregonians, and I’m grateful for their work on these vital resources.”
Oregon Health Authority, Oregon Department of Education and the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission partnered on these opioid/fentanyl prevention and intervention resources. This cross-agency collaboration with school and community partners to prevent substance use among youth and young adults will continue with the release of additional instructional materials and professional learning resources throughout the school year.
“Responding to the opioid crisis requires all hands on deck,” said ADPC Director Annaliese Dolph. “Leaders in government, healthcare, education and other fields all have a role to play when it comes to helping Oregon’s young people understand and navigate the risks of substance use. Equipping educators with the resources to have those conversations with students – particularly about synthetic opioids – is an essential piece of the puzzle.”
School-based drug education plays important role in youth overdose prevention
School-based prevention efforts such as health education, plays an important role in preventing and delaying first use of drugs and interrupting the development of substance use-related problems affecting youth and their families.
During Oregon’s 2023 legislative session, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 238, requiring OHA, the State Board of Education via ODE, and ADPC to co-develop curricula supplements on the dangers of synthetic opioids and legal protections in place for people who report substance use or who seek medical treatment for drug or alcohol overdoses.
“The lesson plans and Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools are just two elements of a larger, comprehensive effort to improve fentanyl awareness and, more broadly, prevent harmful substance use among Oregon’s young people – a priority that OHA, ODE and ADPC collectively share,” said OHA Director Sejal Hathi, M.D.
Required Synthetic Opioid Prevention Lessons
ODE collaborated with OHA and ADPC to develop the required lessons per Senate Bill 238. These lessons are available on the ODE Health Education webpage and incorporate:
- Youth-designed approaches with space for dialogue, relevant information, and Oregon data.
- Research-based practices that emphasize the importance of promoting strengths-based norms rather than shame or fear-based tactics, skills-based learning over awareness-raising, and connecting to broad prevention efforts within the school and community.
- Alignment with the 2023 Oregon Health Education Standards.
Beyond these required lessons, House Bill 5204 (2024) provided funding to ODE for additional curriculum supplements on the dangers of synthetic opioids. ODE will be sharing these resources along with professional learning opportunities in the year to come. ODE will be seeking feedback regarding the lessons for continuous improvement during this pilot year.
“These lesson plans help empower our students with the most up-to-date information to protect themselves and their friends from harmful substances,” ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams said. “I want to thank the Oregon Legislature for providing us with the framework in Senate Bill 238 and our partners at the Oregon Health Authority and the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission for all their work collaborating on the lesson plans and toolkit that will save lives in Oregon. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with school and community partners to prevent substance use among youth and respond to the evolving substance use landscape in Oregon.”
Updated Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools, access to overdose reversal medication
The updated 2024 Fentanyl Toolkit for Schools offers resources schools can use to educate the community about the impact of fentanyl and opioids; develop school policies and practices to prevent and respond to opioid overdoses; and build community partnerships for a comprehensive substance use prevention and intervention approach. The updates to the original 2022 toolkit include additional resources based on developing science and practices in substance use prevention and intervention, and recently passed state legislation that requires districts to share information to parents about opioid overdose reversal medications.
In addition to the updated toolkit, schools have access to naloxone through the Save Lives Oregon Harm Reduction Clearinghouse. Naloxone can save lives by reversing an opioid overdose. As of September 2024, about 125 school districts and Education Service Districts have requested and received naloxone kits. Each kit includes a wall-mounted naloxone box and eight doses of nasal naloxone.
Groundbreaking Dedication Event for Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Oregon State Capitol- Friday, November 22, 2024 | 2:00 p.m.
The Oregon State Capitol will be the site of the highly anticipated dedication ceremony for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Friday, November 22, at 2:00 p.m. This momentous event will be the formal dedication of Phase 1 of the memorial, which honors the service and sacrifice of Oregon’s Vietnam veterans. The public ceremony will occur at Salem’s Willson Park memorial site on the Capitol grounds, at the corner of State and Cottage Street, with a reception to follow at the nearby Withnell Family YMCA.
The memorial pays tribute to 710 Oregonians who lost their lives in the Vietnam War, along with the more than 180,000 Oregonians who served in Vietnam and around the world from 1955-1975. The design features 46 black granite columns engraved with the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It creates a reflective space for veterans, families, and the public to honor their memory.
The event will include comments from local veterans, state officials, and Vietnam War Memorial Fund members, who have been instrumental in making this project a reality. The event is hosted by the Oregon Vietnam War Memorial Fund and is supported by a grant of Transient Occupancy Tax from the City of Salem.
The Importance of the Memorial – The Vietnam War remains one of the most challenging and divisive periods in American history. Veterans returning from the conflict were often met with indifference or hostility, making this memorial an overdue recognition of their service. The memorial offers a space for healing and remembrance, honoring both the sacrifices of the fallen and the resilience of those who served. Steve Bates, President and co-founder of the Vietnam War Memorial Fund (VWMF), emphasized the emotional impact of this project. “This is about giving our veterans a place of rest and, for all of us, a place to heal,” Bates said. The memorial will not only commemorate the service of Vietnam veterans but also serve as a reminder of the war’s lasting impact on the state and its people.
Beyond its role as a place of remembrance, the memorial will also serve as an educational resource when Phase 2 is completed. Phase 2, the Exhibit Phase, aims to help future generations understand the human cost of war and the bravery of those who fought.
For more information, see a virtual tour or donate, visit ocvvm.com.
About the VWMF: Vietnam War Memorial Fund’s website at www.ocvvm.com. The Vietnam War Memorial Fund is a recognized 501(c)3 organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent of applicable tax law. You can donate by sending a check to the Vietnam War Memorial Fund – P O Box 1448 – Boring, Oregon 97009 or by credit card at www.ocvvm.com.
Oregon Housing and Community Services’ Homeowner Assistance Fund accepting final applications online
— Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is reopening the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) online application portal to accept final applications directly from homeowners. Applications must be submitted by Oct. 31, 2024. New applications will be put on a waitlist and prioritized for homeowners most at risk of foreclosure or loss.
Homeowners can now review application criteria and apply directly online using a link on the HAF website: oregonhomeownerassistance.org. If homeowners need or would like assistance with an application, they can contact a HAF intake partner. A list of intake partners can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/homeownership/Pages/Homeownership-Assistance-Fund.aspx.
“OHCS is reopening the online application portal through Oct. 31, 2024, to ensure we help as many Oregon families as possible,” said Ryan Vanden Brink, assistant director of Homeowner Assistance Programs. “With our average award of $26,500, we can assist approximately 250 additional households. Any further applications will be placed on a waitlist pending the availability of funds.”
HAF offers federal temporary COVID-19 pandemic relief to help homeowners who experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic. HAF can help homeowners become current on their mortgages, county taxes, homeowners’ (HOA) or condo associations, land sale contracts, secured manufactured home or floating home loans, and lot rent or moorage fees associated with homeowners in manufactured home parks or marinas. Financial hardship includes a reduction in income or an increase in housing costs resulting from the pandemic.
Homeowners are eligible to apply if they meet the program’s general eligibility criteria and are facing foreclosure, involved in a court case that threatens their home, in property tax foreclosure, in collections with their HOA, or in other high-risk situations identified by a housing counselor. Homeowners in foreclosure may have already received outreach letters from OHCS or their county assessor.
OHCS will make its final HAF payments in February 2025, limiting total assistance available to new applicants.OHCS encourages homeowners to explore all other options with their servicer or a housing counselor before applying for HAF. Applying for HAF does not guarantee approval or that a foreclosure will be postponed. HAF is administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury.
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.
Oregon Aging and People with Disabilities offers free help for Medicare Open Enrollment
(Salem) — Medicare Open Enrollment for the 2025 plan year begins Oct. 15 and remains open through Dec. 7, 2024. Medicare beneficiaries seeking to compare or change their existing Medicare plan can receive free help from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).
During the Medicare Open Enrollment period, people with Medicare can make changes to their health plan or prescription drug plan, pick a Medicare Advantage plan or choose Original Medicare. The ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities’ (APD) Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is available to help Oregonians understand their Medicare options and benefits, provide enrollment guidance and help people detect and avoid Medicare scams. Additionally, there are some key changes coming to Medicare in 2025 that APD’s SHIBA program counselors can assist people in understanding including:
- The new Manufacturer Discount Program which addresses the coverage gap, also known as the “donut hole;”
- The lower maximum to pay for covered drugs. The maximum amount for 2025 will be $2,000;
- Coverage for weight loss drugs when doctors prescribe them for people who meet certain conditions;
- Expanded coverage for family caregiver services through the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) model; and
- Increased access to mental health services by allowing more providers to bill Medicare for services.
“Our APD SHIBA team is devoted to helping people prepare for open enrollment and understand changes,” said Jane-ellen Weidanz, who oversees SHIBA as APD Deputy Director of Policy.
Oregonians who need help navigating Medicare open enrollment are encouraged to call SHIBA at 800-722-4134 (toll-free) or learn more by visiting the SHIBA website at SHIBA.Oregon.gov. The 2025 Oregon Guide to Medicare Insurance Plans will be available on the SHIBA website in the coming days and will be translated to multiple languages.
SHIBA certified counselors can also help people report scams to Medicare and educate people on how to avoid Medicare scams or fraud. According to the Senior Medicare Patrol, common scams include promising free durable medical equipment, such as knee braces and catheters, or offers of free genetic testing. The ultimate goal for the scammer is to get the beneficiary’s Medicare number to commit Medicare billing fraud. “SHIBA counselors are committed to ensuring Oregonians have the information they need to avoid becoming victims of fraud and report scams or suspected Medicare fraud,” said APD Director Dr. Nakeshia Knight-Coyle.
Help from SHIBA is available over the phone and through virtual and in-person appointments. Because high call volume during Open Enrollment may result in longer than usual wait times, Oregonians are also encouraged to access free resources on the SHIBA website such as Medicare frequently asked questions, an agent locator tool, a list of free virtual and in-person Medicare presentations and videos to help people understand their Medicare options. People who need Medicare help in a language other than English, including sign language, can call 833-685-0841 or send an email to odhs.languageaccess@odhsoha.oregon.gov; after placing a request, a translator will reach out in the requestor’s preferred language to provide assistance in communicating with SHIBA.
About the Oregon Department of Human Services – The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.
About the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program – The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is part of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. It is a statewide network of certified counselors volunteering in their community to help all Oregonians make educated Medicare decisions. SHIBA offers free, objective, confidential and local one-on-one health insurance counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding campaigners and their supporters that political signs are not permitted on state highway right-of-ways.
Only official traffic control devices are allowed in these right-of-way areas, as ODOT says improperly placed signs can distract drivers and obstruct road safety messages.
ODOT stated that any signs found in violation will be removed and held at a nearby district maintenance office for 30 days. To reclaim them, individuals should contact the nearest ODOT maintenance office.
“Signs are prohibited on trees, utility poles, fence posts, and natural features within highway right-of-ways,” ODOT said. They are also banned within view of designated scenic areas.
The highway right of way is usually measured as all of the land between the property line on one side of the highway and the property line on the other side.
The width of the state highway right-of-way can vary significantly depending on the location. ODOT advises those uncertain about whether they are placing a sign on private property or highway right-of-way to consult with the local ODOT district maintenance office or use an interactive map available for identifying ODOT right-of-ways.
Political signs ARE allowed on private property within view of state highways, provided they adhere to certain restrictions.
Sign dimensions are limited to 12 square feet, but they can be up to 32 square feet with a variance from the Oregon Advertising Sign Program Resources guidelines. Signs must not have flashing or intermittent lights, animated or moving parts, or imitate official highway signs or devices. They are also not allowed in scenic corridors.
ODOT emphasized that no payment or compensation of any kind can be exchanged for the placement of or the message on temporary signs, including political signs, visible from a state highway. More information on sign regulations can be found on ODOT’s WEBSITE.
Health coverage comparison tool now provides more ways to compare options, potential savings in Oregon
OregonHealthCare.gov unveils enhanced Window Shopping tool ahead of 2025 open enrollment period
With open enrollment for 2025 fast approaching on Nov. 1, the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace is launching a revamped version of its widely-used Window Shopping tool. This timely upgrade offers Oregonians an even easier way to explore their health coverage options and maximize potential savings.
Open enrollment is the only time of year for individuals not covered through their job, the Oregon Health Plan, or Medicare to enroll in Marketplace health insurance.
New data from the Oregon Health Insurance Survey1 reveals that 97% of Oregonians now have health coverage. For 20242, over 80% of applicants who sought financial help through the Marketplace were eligible for assistance—highlighting the increased accessibility of affordable health insurance for Oregon families.
The updated Window Shopping tool at OregonHealthCare.gov provides a streamlined, user-friendly experience in both Spanish and English. Based on location, age, and income, the tool estimates potential savings and directs users to the appropriate health coverage, whether that’s the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or a Marketplace plan. This year’s enhancements also include more detailed information on coverage for gender-affirming care, a benefit included in all Marketplace plans for 2025.
The tool continues to offer quick comparisons of health plans, detailed previews of out-of-pocket costs, and checks for provider, facility, and prescription drug coverage—giving users a full picture before enrolling.
All Marketplace health plans include a robust range of essential health benefits, from preventive care to naturopathy, chiropractic, and acupuncture, many of which are covered before meeting deductibles. The only way to be sure a doctor or prescription is covered is to check – the Window Shopping tool gives Oregonians an easy way to do that.
“Anyone looking for health coverage should visit OregonHealthCare.gov to preview 2025 plans,” says Chiqui Flowers, director of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “We’re committed to helping Oregonians feel confident about their health insurance choices, and this tool makes the process easy.”
For those seeking personalized help, licensed insurance agents and trained community groups are available to guide Oregonians through the enrollment process at no cost. Visit OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp to connect with an expert and take the stress out of signing up for health coverage.
1Oregon Health Insurance Survey Health Insurance Summary. Published Sept. 2024 by Oregon Health Authority Health Policy and Analytics. https://orhim.info/3TKbpWl
2Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace 2023 Annual Report. Published April 2024. https://orhim.info/2023ExecSummary
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