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Friday, Sept. 1, 2023
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 66. Light northwest winds to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch. Overnight, showers expected, low of 49. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Today’s Headlines
A reminder on Monday, September 4th:
Klamath Falls City and County offices : Closed.
Federal offices and courts: Closed.
Oregon and Washington state offices and courts: Closed.
The first day of school for Klamath Basin students is scheduled for Tuesday, September 5.
Oregon Tech’s university accreditation was successfully reaffirmed this month by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, the goal of accreditation is to ensure higher education facilities meet acceptable levels of quality. The department website also states that accreditation for post-secondary schools is achieved through non-governmental agencies on the federal level, such as the federally recognized nonprofit NWCCU, as well as state and local government agencies.
Oregon Tech President Nagi Naganathan noted the significance of this accreditation in the release as this was reported to be the first seven-year accreditation cycle for the Klamath Falls school.
Achieving NWCCU accreditation, the nonprofit’s site says, allows universities as well as the students enrolled there to federal Title IV funds which, the site says, support teaching, research and student financial aid. (Herald and News)
Regional economies were boosted by several million dollars because of the allure of Crater Lake National Park and the Lava Beds and Tule Lake National Monuments.
A new National Park Service report shows that 647,751 visitors to Crater Lake and 131,000 visitors to Lava Beds and Tule Lake in 2022 spent more $69 million in communities near the parks.
That spending supported 961 jobs in areas near the park and had a combined cumulative benefit to the local economies of $97.7 million.
Nationally, the peer-reviewed visitor spending analysis was conducted by NPS economists shows $23.9 billion of direct spending by nearly 312 million park visitors in communities within 60 miles of a national park. The spending supported 378,400 jobs nationally; 314,600 of those jobs are found in these gateway communities. The cumulative benefit to the U.S. economy was $50.3 billion.
Based on the report, Crater Lake had 527,259 total recreation visits, total visitor spending was $51,208,0,00, accounted for 728 jobs, resulted in a labor income of $27,715, with value added totaled $42,626,000, with a total economic impact of $4,757,00.
The report says 98.4 percent of the visitor spending was by non-locals Lava Beds-Tule Lake had 130,969 total recreation visits, total visitor spending was $6,446,000, accounted for 74 jobs, resulted in a labor income of $2,597,000, with value added totaled $4,032,000, and had a total economic impact of $7,206,000.
The report says 95.3 percent of the visitor spending was by non-locals. (Herald and News)
It’s the non-official end to summer and if you’re still searching for events to round out the season, Lake County may be a good start for the Lake County round-up through Monday.
Country superstar Mitchell Tenpenny will entertain on Saturday night. The rodeo is set for Sunday and Monday at the Lake County fairgrounds in Lakeview.
The Board of Klamath County Commissioners played host to the president and assistant vice president of Oregon Institute of Technology earlier this week, commemorating the university’s 75th anniversary this year.
Harkening back to shortly after the Second World War in 1947, Oregon Tech began first as a vocational rehabilitation school for returning veterans needing access to opportunity. In 1948, the Oregon State Board of Education voted for Oregon Tech to become an accredited institution under the name of Oregon Technical Institute that offered associate degree programs.
In 1966 Oregon Tech was authorized to begin granting bachelor’s degrees, and in 1973, the name was again changed to its current one, Oregon Institute of Technology.
Today, Oregon Tech offers nearly 50 industry-focused undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the areas of engineering, technology, health, business, applied arts and sciences and related fields. Oregon Tech’s official anniversary date was on July 14, 2023.
During the meeting, Klamath County Commissioners also approved funding of $50,000 to the South Central Oregon Economic Development District, which will be paid quarterly for 2023-24. SCOEDD was formed in 1999 to serve as the primary conduit for regional economic development resources for Klamath and Lake County. SCOEDD supports investments that facilitate the development and implementation of comprehensive economic development strategies that prioritize the region’s goals. SCOEDD also administers an Individual Development Account program that enables low-income community members to save for homes and cars, and offers small business support and dental work. SCOEDD also oversees various home repair and housing revitalization initiatives such as the Klamath Neighborhood Revitalization Pilot Program.
While moving to approve the Community Corrections biennial plan and budget, commissioner, DeGroot voiced concerns about the state Department of Corrections directing the county program how to spend its funding. Community Corrections receives no general fund dollars from Klamath County and is funded by the state DOC. For the next biennium, from July 2023 through June 2025, Klamath County Community Corrections will be operating with a total budget of $9,866,278. (Herald and News)
A new report compares the percentage of household income local residents spend on bills for each of the 50 states including Oregon. The report is produced by an organization called Doxoinsights.com.
While the average U.S. household spends 35% of income on bills, the data found that:
- Oregon households spend 39% of their income on household bills.
- Klamath Falls households spend 42% of their income on household bills.
Annually, Klamath Falls, Oregon, bills are $4,140 per year lower than the US average. The report says the average household in Klamath Falls, Oregon pays $1,701 per month, or $20,417 per year on bills. The report also says Klamath Falls is the #52 most expensive city in Oregon for household expenses. Household expenses in Klamath Falls are 16.9% lower than the US average. (submitted news release)
Sugarman’s Corner on Main and Sixth Streets downtown remains closed until further notice following multiple incidents of vandalism to the location.
“Due to recent vandalism, Sugarman’s Corner will be closed beginning August 29 so crews can start clean-up work,” the release said. “At this time, it is unknown when the park will reopen.” Public Works Director Mark Willrett said vandalism of the site began Thursday night when a waterline and connected irrigation system to the city planters on site were dug up and damaged.
“They also dumped a can of black paint by the steps on the concrete,” Willrett said. “And then, on Saturday, they bent and broke one of the umbrelllas on one of the tables.”
Willrett said there were other relatively minor instances of vandalism at the public property as well. Herald and News visited Sugarman’s Corner to view the damage and found the Klamath Piano Project on site was also targeted with writings painted in black along the left-hand side.
Graffiti along the sides of the public tables was also visible. Until the public gathering space is repaired, fencing surrounds the area. Willrett said the city will not have an estimate for the total cost to repair damages until the work is completed. No other vandalism incidents of a similar nature are known by city officials so far.
Klamath Falls Police Department (KFPD) Captain Rob Reynolds said the investigation is ongoing with at least one potential suspect. The sprinkler system damage was not caught on the city’s camera recordings, Reynolds said, so it is unclear if the destruction of the waterline was performed by the same person or persons who performed the other acts of vandalism. (Herald and News)
A variety of antique engines and farm equipment will be on display and in use at the annual Hildebrand threshing bee at Bodnar’s Chimney Rock Ranch this weekend. The public is invited to the event that runs Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 2 and 3, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
According to John Bodnar Jr., the event is a working piece of history. When asked what people can expect, Bodnar said, “They get to see the evolution of early farm equipment and early combustion engines, and how the machinery worked before the electrical age.”
Threshing is the act of separating the grain from the stalk, in crops like wheat. The event is free.
Food and drink will be available for purchase. Event goers are also welcome to bring their own and make a picnic day of it. Attendees should also dress comfortably for a day in the country. The threshing bee is an annual event put on by the Hildebrand Threshers, a nonprofit group of volunteers devoted to discovering, preserving and communicating the history of farming in Klamath County. (Herald and News)
Klamath Community College’s recent 100% graduation and state licensure trend for its Registered Nurse (RN) program has continued with its inaugural Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) cohort also passing the state board exam and graduating in full.
The highly competitive KCC Nursing Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program accepts 16 new nursing students annually, eight each for its respective LPN and RN programs, after state approval allowed for the addition of an LPN cohort last year alongside KCC’s long-established RN program. Students in the KCC nursing program complete a higher number of general education course credits than any other AAS nursing programs in the state of Oregon.
The work requirements are high, but so too are expectations, with KCC continuing its 100% graduation rate and state board exam passage, a trend of success of the nursing program for several years in a row.
The consistent overachievement of KCC nursing students is even more impressive this year considering that in 2023 the National Council of State Boards of Nursing drastically changed the format and difficulty of the state board exam, necessitating a retooling of curriculum to properly prepare students for testing.
In addition to the LPN expansion, KCC earlier this year partnered with Sky Lakes Medical Center to develop a Surgical Technician Program for a planned 2024 launch. This program will provide surgical technologist curriculum accredited by a national organization approved by the Oregon Health Authority, intended for students who meet admission standards and pass a rigorous selection process. (kcc press release)
Klamath Falls Fire Dept 1 (KCFD1) is hiring!
Visit our careers website: kcfd1.com/careers for more information and to apply.
Around the state of Oregon
An inmate who was in Multnomah County Jail for several serious charges — including attempted aggravated murder — escaped from Oregon State Hospital in Salem, just after he was transferred there. He was last seen headed southbound on Interstate 5.
According to a news release from Oregon State Police, the man — 39-year-old Christopher Lee Pray — stole a white 2016 Dodge Caravan and used it to escape. The license plate on the car is E265614.
The release described Pray as a white male who is six feet tall and weighs about 170 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes, trimmed hair that may look different from his photo and stitches on his upper lip.
He also has “PRAY” tattooed on his right arm or forearm, and an “S” on his neck — the release said this tattoo could possibly spell out “Supreme.”
“Pray is considered extremely dangerous and should not be approached. Law enforcement is urging the public to dial 911 and report any sightings of Pray or the vehicle he was operating,” the release said. (KDRV 12)
Happy Camp Complex Fires Morning Update – Sept. 1, 2023
WEST SIDE OVERVIEW (ACRES/CONTAINMENT): Elliot (11,459 acres, 25%), Ufish (4,651 acres, 3%) Hancock (1,653 acres, 0%)
Last night, the Elliot and Ufish fires held within established fire lines. Today, hotshot crews and dozers will be working on the southwest side of the Elliot Fire near Dillion Creek constructing direct fire line. Firefighters on the Ufish will focus on holding and improving established control lines.
Yesterday, the Hancock Fire, located in the Marble Mountain Wilderness, southeast of the Elliot Fire, was added to the Happy Camp Complex. Fire managers are assessing the fire and planning suppression efforts.
EAST SIDE OVERVIEW (ACRES/CONTAINMENT): Head (6,940 acres, 75%), Block (0.1 acres, 100%), Townsend (81 acres, 100%), Den (294 acres, 100%), Scott (1,886 acres, 70%), Lake (199, acres, 55%)
The east side of the Happy Camp Complex had minimal fire activity last night. Today, firefighters will work to complete containment on the north and west sides of the Head Fire. Crews on the Scott and Lake fires continue to hold fires within their current perimeter.
EVACUATIONS: View current Siskiyou County evacuation orders and warnings by visiting: community.zonehaven.com. Siskiyou County residents are encouraged to sign up for rapid emergency notifications using the CodeRED emergency alert system at: www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/
An evacuation center has been established at the Kahtishraam Wellness Center, 1403 Kahtishraam, Yreka, CA 95097. Call (530) 340-3539 if you have questions regarding the shelter.
ROAD CONDITIONS: State Route 96 is open. One-way traffic control remains in place in several areas while crews work to repair damaged infrastructure, remove debris, and stabilize slopes. Delays at the locations with one-way traffic control could be up to an hour or more. Scott River Road is now open with the exception of the area between Mill Creek to Highway 96. County road closures will be listed on the Siskiyou County Public Works website: www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/
FOREST CLOSURE: Two closure orders have been implemented: Happy Camp Complex Emergency Fire Closure, No.05-05-23-06; Happy Camp Complex Emergency Fire Closure, No. 05-05-23-07. View closure orders and maps at: www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/
TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTION (TFR): A TFR has been established over the fire area. Flight restrictions include the use of drones. The operation of drones under the TFR is prohibited.
PACIFIC CREST TRAIL: The Pacific Crest Trail is closed between the Shelly Fork Junction and Seiad as part of an area closure under Forest Order 05-05-23-07. It is suggested that northbound through-hikers exit the trail at Etna Summit and resume northward travel from Seiad.
AIR QUALITY: For information regarding smoke impacts and what you can do to protect yourself, visit the Siskiyou County Air Pollution Control District Fire and Smoke Information Website at: www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/
Oregon will have plenty to spend on public services as corporate tax collections are increasing in a strong post-pandemic economy, state economists said Wednesday.
Total General Fund resources in 2023-25 increased by $437 million, state economists said. Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek welcomed the news contained in the quarterly revenue forecast presented Wednesday by the Office of Economic Analysis.
Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, leader of the minority Republicans in the Oregon House of Representatives, urged that funds be dedicated to combatting crime and the flood of fentanyl into the state.
House Speaker Dan Rayfield, a Democrat, said the healthy revenue forecast means Oregon can continue to address homelessness, access to mental health and health care, community safety and education. State economists said that as inflation slows, income gains are outpacing price increases, leading to rising living standards.
Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp urged bold investments in infrastructure like roads, sewer systems, and water. An increase in revenues at the end of the 2021-23 biennium will result in a larger personal income “kicker” than previously estimated, for a total of $5.6 billion, state economists said.
The typical Oregonian is expected to receive a $980 credit when they file their state income taxes next year under Oregon’s unique “kicker” law. (Herald and News)
While the drug use and addiction problem grows all over the state of Oregon and the nation, today The Department of Health and Human Services is formally recommending that the Drug Enforcement Administration ease government restrictions on marijuana, which remains illegal at the federal level even though 40 states, including Oregon, allow its use in some form.
The move comes 11 months after President Joe Biden ordered the top health agency to conduct a review of the drug. The recommendation is to move marijuana from what’s known as a Schedule I drug to Schedule III, under the Controlled Substances Act.
In the eyes of the DEA, cannabis is in the same category as other Schedule I drugs like heroin and LSD, meaning it’s considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. A spokesperson for HHS said it has “expeditiously” responded to the directive in providing its recommendation to the DEA on Tuesday.
If the DEA were to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III, it would most notably eliminate an IRS code intended to prevent drug dealers from claiming tax deductions for business expenses. (oregon news)
A Phoenix, Oregon man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after he led police on a chase three years ago, crashed into a resident’s fence and violated his supervised release by possessing a firearm and meth.
The man, 41-year-old James Charles Danis, will be in federal prison for 188 months with five years’ supervised release afterwards, according to a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“On March 20, 2020, while under an active arrest warrant for violating the terms of his federal supervised release, Danis was spotted by a deputy U.S. Marshal leaving a motel in Medford. The deputy contacted (detectives) to assist with an arrest. When the deputy and the assisting officers confronted Danis, he fled in a vehicle and led officers from the Medford and Central Point police departments on a pursuit through both cities,” the release said. Police tried to stop Danis, with the pursuit ending when he crashed his car through the fence of a house, the release said.
“Danis continued trying to drive his blocked vehicle away from scene until officers removed him from it and placed him under arrest,” the release said.
“A search of Danis’ person, vehicle, and motel room returned more than 300 grams of methamphetamine, multiple pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and packing materials, a semi-automatic pistol, and ammunition.”
A federal grand jury in Medford indicted Danis in July 2020 on charges of illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine, the release said. (U.S. Attorney’s office press release)
Willamette Valley Fire Updates, Friday, Sept. 1
Lookout, Bedrock, Horse Creek, Pothole and Grizzly Fire Updates
CLOSURE REDUCTION: Officials reduced the closure area for the BEDROCK FIRE on Aug. 31, 2023 due to successful firefighting efforts. Many popular sites and trails that were closed by the old Bedrock closure are now open, including the full length of the Alpine Trail (#3315). Follow Bedrock Fire 2023 for latest information.
Read full closure: https://www.fs.usda.gov/…/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1125705.pdf
The Willamette National Forest is currently in Level 3 Fire Restrictions, IFPL III, and “very high” danger rating. More information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/willamette/fire.
Lookout Fire September 1, 2023 Quick Facts Size: 24,575 acres Start Date: August 5, 2023 Cause: Lightning Containment: 20% Point of origin: 3 miles North of McKenzie Bridge, OR Total personnel: 983 Resources: 66 engines l 15 crews l 13 bulldozers l 40 water tenders l 11 masticators l 21 helicopters
September 01, 2023 Quick Facts: Bedrock Fire Acres: 31,590 Containment: 80% Total personnel: 615 Crews: 11 Helicopters: 11 Engines: 27 Dozers: 7 Water Tenders: 25
Horse Creek Fire Size: 763 acres Start Date: August 24, 2023 Cause: Lightning Containment: 12%
Pothole Fire Size: 109 acres Start Date: August 25, 2023 Cause: Lightning Containment: 15%.
Eugene Man Arrested in Connection with Fatal Paraglider Crash
On August 30, 2023, Benton County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested Jarrod Karl Kaplan (56) of Eugene, in connection with their investigation of a paraglider crash into the Willamette River on July 1, which caused the death of a 51-year-old Eugene man.
The tandem flight was purchased online with Kaplan, a self-pronounced paragliding instructor.
Further research by detectives determined Kaplan was actually flying northbound over the river, not southbound as originally reported, when he hit a powerline and crash into the river.
Kaplan is charged with Criminal Negligent Homicide and is currently lodged at the Benton County Jail where he is being held until arraignment.
For further information, please contact the Benton County District Attorney’s Office at 541-766-6815.
The initial investigation by BCSO determined a 56-year-old male from Eugene was operating his Fenix AirTap Paramotor paraglider when it crashed into the Willamette River.
There was one passenger on board the aircraft when the crash occurred. The 51-year-old male passenger from Eugene was still underwater when first responders arrived and determined to be deceased.
The two took off from Irish Bend Park, flew north following the direction of the river, and were traveling back when the aircraft crashed into the Willamette River.
Two fishermen on a boat helped rescue the pilot, who was then transported to the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
Impairment is not believed to have been a factor in the crash at this time. The investigation remains open and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office Detective Lovik at 541-766-6818.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) with oversight by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is further investigating the incident. Any further information will be released at the direction of the Benton County District Attorney’s Office. BCSO would like to thank the Linn County Sheriff’s Office and Halsey Fire Department for assistance with this incident.
Tips for Boaters from the Oregon State Marine Board
With Labor Day weekend here, folks are planning some end of summer activities for the long weekend. Amongst those activities? Boating. The Oregon State Marine Board is offering tips to keep you and your loved ones safe during your on-water adventure: Wear your life jacket
- Each boat (including canoes and kayaks, inflatable boats, and stand up paddleboards) must have a properly fitted life jacket for each person on board and at least one sound-producing device.
- Life jackets need to be in good shape and readily accessible – not under a hatch or in their packaging. All youth younger than 13 must wear a life jacket when in a boat that’s underway. Because accidents happen unexpectedly, it makes the best sense to always wear a life jacket.
Know your waterway “Take the time to get familiar with the waterway and the local conditions such as currents, tides, wind, and weather,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. “Look out for large woody debris and rocks with low water levels.” Find out more about low water impacts on boat ramps by subscribing to the Marine Board’s Opportunities and Access Report. Know what rules apply
- There are all types of watercraft on the market; some are considered boats and others are pool toys.
- Boats are designed differently, and by state law, have specific equipment requirements. “If you plan to float in a river, keep in mind that pool toys are designed for use in a swimming pool, have no directional control, and can puncture easily. Boat in a watercraft designed for a river; craft that won’t easily puncture and comes equipped with a paddle so you can maneuver away from obstructions.” Paulsen adds.
It’s state law that any boat with a motor, even temporarily mounted, must be titled and registered. Paddlecraft (including stand up paddleboards) 10 feet and longer are required to carry a Waterway Access Permit. Boat Sober
- The Marine Board encourages boaters and persons floating on the waterways, to leave the alcohol on shore. It’s safer for everyone. If arrested for Boating Under the Influence of Intoxicants (BUII), violators can be fined up to $6,250; can lose boating privileges for up to three years, and even serve jail time. Intoxicants include marijuana, illicit drugs, and even some prescriptions.
Sit on the seat inside the boat
- Many boaters are tempted to ride on the swim platform, lounge chairs behind the transom, stern, sides, and the bow of open motorboats. The stern can be a dangerous place for exposure to carbon monoxide and a prop-strike safety hazard.
It is illegal to ride on the bow, decks, gunwales or transoms of a motorboat when the boat is underway.
- Sitting on designated seats is the safest option – especially when the boat is towing someone. Just because new boats have seats on the transom or swim step doesn’t make them legal for use when the boat is underway.
Slow down, keep scanning, and be courteous
- Know the boating regulations for your area of operation. Boaters, including personal watercraft, are responsible for damage caused by their wake. Remember to slow down within 200 feet of a dock, launch ramp, marina, moorage, floating home or boathouse, pier or swim float, even if they don’t have a “Slow No-Wake” buoy or sign. Paddlers should stay closer to shore, crossing busy channels at right angles only when it is safe and allow motorboats to pass in deeper water. Be courteous, share the waterway, and recreate responsibly.
The Marine Board says leading cause of fatal boating incidents this year involve capsizing. So far this year, there have been 11 recreational boating-related fatalities and nine victims drowned. Of the nine, only one was wearing a life jacket, an inflatable style, which malfunctioned. BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT For more information about equipment requirements, boating regulations, and ideas on where to go boating, visit the Marine Board’s website.
OREGON TO ISSUE AN ADDITIONAL $39 MILLION IN PANDEMIC EBT FOOD ASSISTANCE TO 325,000 CHILDREN
What You Need To Know:
- Oregon will provide approximately $39 million in food benefits to approximately 325,000 students beginning Aug. 31 and through September.
- Starting Aug. 31 and through the month of September, $120 in food benefits per eligible child will be issued to Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) cards.
- These additional food benefits are part of the P-EBT program, a temporary COVID-19 response program meant to provide additional food support for children whose access to food provided through school programs.
- Since 2020, Oregon has issued $1 billion in P-EBT food benefits to help children in Oregon get enough quality and nutritious food.
(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) will begin issuing approximately $39 million in Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) food benefits to approximately 325,000 students in Oregon on Aug. 31.
“We are grateful to be able to provide these food benefits to eligible students in Oregon,” said Claire Seguin, director of the ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs.
“As communities continue to be affected by COVID-19 and the rising cost of food, we know that many families are experiencing hardship and are struggling to get enough healthy food for themselves and their children. We encourage anyone who is struggling to meet their basic needs to contact our partners at 211, the Oregon Food Bank and their local Community Action Agency for support during this difficult time.”
How students will receive P-EBT food benefits The P-EBT food benefits will be issued onto the P-EBT cards mailed to students in Spring 2023. Families who lost or threw away their card can contact the P-EBT call center at (844) ORE-PEBT or (844) 673-7328 to request a new card. Newly eligible students will receive two pieces of mail addressed to them:
- A letter notifying them they will receive P-EBT
- A separate envelope with their P-EBT card that has $120 of food benefits on it
Who is eligible for P-EBT food benefits Students are eligible for this P-EBT issuance if they received free or reduced-price National School Lunch Program meals at school or attended a Community Eligibility Provision school in May 2023.
More P-EBT food benefits to come for certain children Oregon has received federal approval to provide additional P-EBT food benefits to children under 6 years old who received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program food benefits between July 2022 and August 2023. Details about when and how these children will receive their P-EBT food benefits will be announced as soon as it is available.
What is the P-EBT program? Since 2020, Oregon has issued approximately $1 billion in P-EBT food benefits to help children in Oregon get enough quality and nutritious food. These additional food benefits are part of the P-EBT program, a temporary COVID-19 response program meant to provide additional food support for children whose access to adequate and quality food received through school programs may have been impacted by COVID-19.
Visit pebt.oregon.gov for more information about the P-EBT program. Families with specific questions about their child’s eligibility or P-EBT card can contact the P-EBT Call Center at (844) ORE-PEBT or (844) 673-7328.
The P-EBT Call Center is available Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific in seven language options (English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Somalian, Mandarin and Cantonese). Callers may also request a translator for additional languages. P-EBT does not replace any child nutrition program already offered and families are encouraged to continue to participate in meal programs in their schools and communities. P-EBT food benefits are issued in addition to regular SNAP benefits. P-EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test.
Resources to help meet basic needs
- Find food resources in your community: needfood.oregon.gov
- Find a food pantry: foodfinder.
oregonfoodbank.org - Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or www.adrcoforegon.org.
- Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
- Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: www.caporegon.org/
find-services/
About SNAP Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 million eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Oregonians in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at https://govstatus.egov.com/or-
About P-EBT Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) is part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. P-EBT is money for children whose access to adequate and quality food may have been impacted by COVID-19. P-EBT is a program in partnership with the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE).
Joint Task Force in Rogue Valley Arrests Phoenix Oregon Man For Sexually Exploiting Several Children Through Social Media
PHOENIX, Ore. – A Phoenix man is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail on child cyber-sex crime charges. The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) joint inter-agency task force arrested the man yesterday morning and served a search warrant at his apartment in the 600 block of North Main Street in Phoenix.
SOCET began an investigation after receiving a report from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office of a child being sexually exploited through the social media site X, formerly known as Twitter.
The suspect, Joshua Ray Pool, 40, of Phoenix, is charged with using a child in display of sexually explicit content and first-degree encouraging child sex abuse.
During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) for further evidence of child exploitation. 
Investigators believe Pool may have been communicating with other child victims from throughout the United States. If you have any information on the suspect, contact investigators through the Sheriff’s App “Submit a Tip” feature.
Download the App here: https://apps.myocv.com/
Salem –The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is reminding everyone with federal student loans that payments will resume for all borrowers in October, following a pause implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interest accrual resumes Sept. 1, potentially affecting borrowers’ outstanding loan balances. Since March 2020, interest on most federal student loans had been temporarily paused. “An important aspect of this transition is that people’s student loan balances have remained unchanged, but with the resumption of interest accrual, they will begin to rise,” said Lane Thompson, Oregon student loan ombuds.
“We encourage borrowers to be active in understanding the implications of this change on their financial obligations.”
To facilitate a smooth transition and ensure accurate communication, all borrowers are urged to log in to studentaid.gov, the official U.S. Department of Education platform for federal student aid, and verify the accuracy of their contact and servicer information. Also, it is recommended that borrowers review their repayment options. Circumstances can evolve over time, making it essential to align repayment strategies with current financial status.
“A lot can change in three years, so it is paramount for people to verify the accuracy of their information,” Thompson said. “Ensuring that contact details are up to date will help borrowers stay informed about their loan status.” In conjunction with the resumption of payments, the Biden administration has introduced an on-ramp program, which includes a fact sheet.
This initiative aims to provide some relief to borrowers by prohibiting loan servicers from reporting missed payments to credit bureaus for one year. This measure offers a safety net for those facing difficulties in making payments after the extended payment pause.
DFR advises all borrowers to remain vigilant against potential scams. Instances of fraud have been reported in which scammers attempt to deceive people into making payments to unauthorized entities instead of their legitimate loan servicer. “Scammers are out and trying to take advantage of the situation,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “Borrowers are encouraged to seek written communication, such as letters, from their servicers to verify authenticity.”
The Oregon Attorney General’s office is also integral in safeguarding those with student loans. “My office plays a vital role in protecting student loan borrowers from misleading and deceptive practices. This fall will be no exception – we will be closely watching what happens when the pause on repayment ends in October,” said Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum.
“If you have a concern about a practice of your loan servicer pertaining to your student loans, I urge you to file a complaint.” It is critically important for borrowers to find out their loan servicer’s name and contact information, and understand their repayment plan and options. This knowledge empowers people to effectively manage their loan obligations.
For more information and guidance on student loan repayments, visit DFR’s help page or contact the student loan ombuds office at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or dfr.bankingproducthelp@
State of Oregon Offers Help To The 552,000 Oregonians With Student Debt
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation has released the state’s first analysis of residents’ student loan debt, and recommendations for how the governor and Legislature could help lighten the burden for current and former college students. The report was conducted following the passage of Senate Bill 485 in 2021. The law called for changes to loan service renewal, declared an emergency and required an annual report. The first of those annual reports states that the U.S. Department of Education owns $1.48 trillion in debt, which is 84% of the total student loan market, and guarantees an additional $143 billion of Federal Family Education Loan Program and Perkins loans. Since 2007, the federal student loan portfolio has grown more than 300%. About 44 million Americans currently have student loan balances, compared to 28 million in 2007. In Oregon, the report found, about 552,000 residents are student loan borrowers, with an average debt of $37,900. Ombuds offers help, answers – SB 485 required the Department of Consumer and Business Services to appoint a student loan ombuds who could help members of the public with complaints or inquiries about student loans. The department’s first ombuds began working in June 2022. As of June 1, 2023, the ombuds had received 34 complaints and 104 contacts from the public. Borrowers most commonly asked the ombuds about the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, which forgives the remaining balance of student loans for full-time employees of governments or nonprofits who have been making qualifying payments for 10 years. In March 2020, as part of a COVID-19 response, the U.S. Department of Education paused federal student loan repayment and collections. Interest was not accrued. These paused payments also counted toward PSLF, earning credit as though monthly payments were made. This pause will end Sept. 1. In addition, there have recently been several announcements and changes to student loans that have caused some confusion.
- In April 2022, the U.S. Department of Education announced “Fresh Start,” an executive action to pull seven million student loan borrowers out of default.
- In August 2022, the Biden administration announced a plan to cancel up to $20,000 in student debt for eligible Pell Grant recipients. In November, the Sweet v. Cardona lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education led to a settlement, resulting in the promise that it must approve about $6 billion in debt forgiveness for 200,000 borrowers.
- The Federal Student Loan Literacy Act, which was introduced in 2022 but did not receive a vote, would have created a federal funding source for community groups to apply toward their work with student loan borrowers.
In 2022, the Oregon ombuds started a PSLF waiver awareness campaign. As of March 31, 8,770 Oregonians had been forgiven more than $557 million in student loan debt. This is up from $216 million for 3,480 Oregonians nine months earlier. The ombuds expects PSLF will continue to be a common topic for loan borrowers who reach out. For more information on PSLF, visit studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service. Other common inquiries over the past year to the ombuds were about misinformation from debt loan servicers, collection mistakes and referrals from the Oregon Department of Justice. Plans for next year – The ombuds’ first goal for the upcoming year is to continue building out the state’s borrower education program, which is intended to offer information and resources to those with student loans. “The lack of funding sources for coaching leaves many borrowers not knowing where to turn,” the report states. “To further borrower education, the student loan ombuds is hoping to expand the range of available presentations, record short videos, and gather more short-term and long-term policy recommendations.” The ombuds will also be recommending policy changes to the Legislature. Short-term policy change goals include:
- More specific regulations for loan servicing.
- More protections for borrowers.
- Requiring people to be notified when they are eligible for loan forgiveness.
Long-term policy change goals include:
- Increasing supports to reduce the cost of college.
- Holding student loan servicers accountable for misinformation.
- Push for more student loan advocates at the university level.
For more information about the Student Loan Servicing Program, visit: dfr.oregon.gov/help/student-loan-help. For more information on federal student aid, visit studentaid.gov/. — (SOURCE)
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