CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) arrested Eric Ryan Maxfield (34) of Albany, after pursuing him into Linn County in a stolen pickup truck, which he took from a hotel parking lot in the 900 Block of NW Garfield Avenue in Corvallis.

At approximately 4:00 PM on February 24, 2021, a call came into Dispatch from a man who observed his vehicle being stolen. He reported a male used a tool to start his white, 2001 Ford F350 diesel work truck and drove off, westbound on Garfield Avenue.

A marked BCSO Unit attempted to stop the stolen vehicle near Fillmore Avenue and Kings Boulevard in Corvallis after it was observed in the area by Corvallis Police Officers. The driver attempted to elude Deputies and continued east out of town by driving the wrong direction on Harrison Boulevard and across the bridge into Linn County. Another BCSO Deputy reacquired the vehicle on Highway 34 near Peoria Road and resumed pursuit.

The stolen pickup continued to I-5, then traveled southbound on I-5 for several miles before crossing the median and traveling northbound. The vehicle drove northbound on I-5 between Corvallis and Albany, eventually using a service road to cross into the southbound lanes. The vehicle slowed and drove northbound on the shoulder of the southbound lanes of I-5 until it went the wrong direction up the on-ramp and into central Albany.

The vehicle traveled through Albany, then returned to I-5 via Old Salem Road and headed the wrong direction up the off-ramp. The vehicle again drove northbound on the shoulder, against traffic, in the southbound lanes of I-5. BCSO Units temporarily discontinued pursuit and waited at the Milepost 237 Exit on I-5. The vehicle eventually changed direction and began traveling southbound again on I-5 at approximately Milepost 239.

Two BCSO Deputies successfully deployed spike strips and deflated both passenger side tires as the stolen vehicle passed them headed southbound at Milepost 237. The vehicle came to a stop on the shoulder approximately a mile south of that location after the deflated tires came apart. The driver and sole occupant, Eric Maxfield, exited the vehicle, complied with commands, and was taken into custody at approximately 4:42 PM. Maxfield was found to be in possession of more than an ounce of Methamphetamine and numerous altered keys used to steal cars.

Maxfield was transported to the Linn County Jail where he was lodged on a detainer by a Marion County Parole & Probation Officer. Maxfield was also charged with Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Reckless Driving, Recklessly Endangering, Attempt to Elude, Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine – Misdemeanor, and Possession of Burglary/Theft Tools. As of this time, Maxfield remains in jail in part due to the diligence and hard work of the Linn County District Attorney’s Office.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Corvallis Police Department, and Albany Police Department for their assistance in capturing this fleeing felon. BCSO remains committed to public safety by apprehending individuals who choose to commit crimes in Benton County.

XXX

CORVALLIS, Ore. – On February 24, 2021, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit, along with members of the Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement (LINE) Team, Lebanon Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), served a narcotics search warrant on the 600 block of SW 7th St, Corvallis, Oregon.

This search warrant was the end result of an investigation into Michael Allan Reigstad (56) of Corvallis, dealing methamphetamine to the local population of Corvallis. A search of the property resulted in over 130 grams of methamphetamine, over $3,000 US Currency, restricted weapons, drug packaging material, digital scales, and suspected stolen property.

Reigstad was ultimately charged with Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine x1, Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine-Commercial Drug Offense x1, Felon in Possession of Restricted Weapon x2, and Frequenting a Place where Drugs are Used.  

Reigstad was also arrested on a Grand Jury Indictment Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine from the last investigation/narcotics search warrant executed at the same residence in late 2019. 

Reigstad was lodged at the Benton County Jail and remains with no bail amounts set.

The property owner, Ruby Fritzson (76) was present at the location and was again arrested for Frequenting a Place where Drugs are Used. Fritzson was issued a citation and released on scene.

Anyone with information concerning Reigstad (or any other drug dealers) and his criminal activities are encouraged to call the Benton County Sheriff’s Office and ask to speak with a Street Crimes Detective. Callers may also remain anonymous by calling the BCSO tipline at 541-753-8477.

XXX

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office arrested two men after they knowingly solicited a 15-year-old female child online and took substantial steps to engage in sexual contact with the girl.

Predators target children for sexual purposes on social media, gaming, and messaging platforms. As more children are home on digital devices completing online school due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, children potentially have an increased exposure to more predators flocking to sites that are popular with kids according to a recent FBI press release.

With this information, Benton County Sheriff Detectives, posing as a minor child, posted to a local online service on February 8, 2021. During the course of the investigation a large number of men responded to this post and text messages were sent to the undercover account where the men were told the child was only 15 years old.

Rocky Keith McCallum, 50, of Monmouth, was arrested Wednesday, after he responded to the undercover account of what he believed to be a 15-year-old Benton County child. McCallum was charged with Online Sexual Corruption of a Child I (ORS 163.433), Online Sexual Corruption of a Child II (ORS 163.432), Luring a minor (ORS 167.057), Attempted Using Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct (ORS 163.670).

Steven Jay West, 70, of Gleneden Beach, was arrested on February 10, 2021, after he responded to the undercover account and agreed to pay a 15-year-old Benton County resident for sex. West was charged with Online Sexual Corruption of a Child I (ORS 163.433), Online Sexual Corruption of a Child II (ORS 163.432), Luring a minor (ORS 167.057), Purchasing sex with a minor (ORS 163.413).

 “We encourage parents to have open and ongoing conversations about safe and appropriate online behavior anytime your children have access to digital devices capable of accessing the internet,” Captain Don Rogers stated. “The Benton County Sheriff’s Office will continue to conduct these investigations to identify and hold accountable those individuals who choose to prey on our children.”

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office encourages the public to report any suspected online enticement of children for sexual acts to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) at http://CyberTipline.org or 1-800-843-5678. NCMEC continuously reviews CyberTipline reports to ensure children who may be in imminent danger get first priority.

Advice from the FBI, including privacy settings for electronic devices, is located at https://www.fbi.gov/scams-and-safety/protecting-your-kids.

XXX

At 2:06 a.m. on February 22, firefighters with Winston Dillard Fire District and Douglas County Fire District No. 2 responded to 981 Winston Section Rd. for a reported house on fire.  Caller to 911 reported a mobile home on fire with a female screaming “fire.”  Winston Fire crew arrived to find a single-wide mobile home with heavy fire and smoke showing through-out the trailer. 

The female occupant had escaped to safety prior to the firefighter’s arrival.  She stated she was the only one living at the residence.  The initial crews made an aggressive exterior attack and quickly extinguished the fire.    

The cause of the fire is under investigation.  Winston Dillard Fire District and Douglas County Fire District No. 2 responded to the incident with 14 firefighters including four fire engines, a water tender, and a command vehicle.   

WINCHESTER BAY, Ore. - Three Reedsport residents were arrested following a theft investigation over the weekend. 

On Saturday, February 20, 2021, deputies assigned to Dunes Patrol took a report that a vehicle had been broken into at the 2nd Beach parking lot in Winchester Bay. Similar reports had been received over the past week.

Through their investigation, deputies obtained information on a suspect vehicle and were able to locate it at a residence in the 400 block of Camellia Court in Reedsport. Once there, two suspects, Douglas Michael Grable and Ashley Marie Shaw, were taken into custody and some stolen property was recovered. 

It was further learned that some of the property had been sold in exchange for drugs. Deputies contacted David Allen Taylor and took him into custody for possessing stolen property. Additionally, Taylor was found to be in possession of 14.2 grams of methamphetamine and 1.2 grams of heroin. 

The three were transported to the Douglas County Jail where they were lodged on the following charges: 

Grable: Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle x3, Theft in the 1st Degree x2, Criminal Mischief in the 2nd Degree x3, Driving While Suspended - Misdemeanor x2, Conspiracy 

Shaw: Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle x3, Theft in the 1st Degree x2, Criminal Mischief in the 2nd Degree x3, Conspiracy  

Taylor: Possession of Stolen Property in the 1st Degree, Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Delivery of Heroin   
 

DOUGLAS COUNTY MAJOR CRIMES TEAM PRESS RELEASE
SENT ON BEHALF OF ROSEBURG POLICE DEPARTMENT

ROSEBURG, Ore. - The Roseburg Police Department has responded to a reported shooting at a motel in the 1000-block of NE Stephens Street in Roseburg.

On February 22, 2021, at approximately 2:57 pm, 9-1-1 dispatchers began receiving multiple reports of a shooting that had taken place at a motel in the 1000-block of NE Stephens Street. Officers with the Roseburg Police Department as well as partner agencies responded to the scene.

Several people have been transported by EMS for treatment. Their names and conditions are being withheld at this time.

Investigators are processing the scene and conducting interviews. There is no longer an on-going threat to the public.

This is still a very active scene. Additional details will be released as they become available.

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Welcome to the Oregon FBI's Tech Tuesday segment. Today: Building a digital defense against getting taken to the dog house!

Pandemic puppies -- and, that matter, kittens -- are a real thing. More people are working at home, and the kids can't -- or won't -- leave the house. Your whole family is desperate for the unconditional love that a little fur ball will bring.

Wanting and finding, though, can be two different things. Some shelters are running low and breeders can have months-long waiting lists. To fraudsters, this presents a golden opportunity. According to the Better Business Bureau, it has received reports of about $3 million in losses to this scam in just the past year.

Here in Oregon, we are seeing a couple main versions of this scam. Almost all involve a fake website or ad selling a puppy or cat that is in another state. The victim sends money for the animal (usually by Zelle, PayPal, or CashApp). To make the deal more lucrative for himself, the scammer may also tell the victim he needs to purchase refundable insurance to ship the animal. In a new twist, some families are paying even more fees for a supposed special shipping crate to meet COVID restrictions or for a non-existent COVID vaccine for the pet.

Here's how to protect yourself:  

• If possible, find your pet locally.

• If you do purchase a pet online, make sure you find a reputable breeder or organization. Look for a long history of work, references, and certifications through breed-specific clubs or a national kennel club. Do not count on a fancy website as an indicator -- anyone can make a good looking site these days.

• Do a reverse image search of any photo of your new pup to make sure the seller isn't using the same picture across multiple sites. 

• If you can't meet the pup in person, ask for a video chat with the seller and the pup before paying.

• Use a credit card or payment platform with good dispute resolution policies. Never pay with cash, wire transfer, or gift cards.

If you believe are a victim of an online scam, you should report the incident to the FBI's Internet Crime Center at www.ic3.gov or call your FBI local office.

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FEB 26, 2021

Update/Correction Regarding COVID cases in Jail

It was reported yesterday that all Adults in Custody who tested positive for Covid – 19 were housed together for 23 days. It should have been reported the minimum time in custody was 23 days.

We are working with the County Health Department and our other county partners to best handle this situation.

On Monday February 22, 2021 Jail Administration was informed that several Adults-In-Custody (AIC) who share a housing unit were feeling symptoms consistent with Covid-19. Jail Medical Staff offered tests to the eleven AIC’s housed in the unit, ten of whom opted for the test. These individuals have been housed together for 23 days at the time the tests were administered.

On Wednesday, Jail Medical Staff was informed that preliminary lab results showed all ten samples were positive for Covid-19. Sheriff’s Office and Jail Medical Staff immediately implemented the established additional protocols to limit potential spread of the virus within the facility.

All eleven AIC’s who are housed together in the unit are presumed/confirmed to be positive for Covid-19. They are lodged and awaiting trial for allegedly committing serious person crimes. The severity of the charges, which range from Sex abuse 2, Rape 1, and Federal Holds, preclude the possibility of releasing the individuals back in to the community, at this time. We must consider the safety of the community when decisions are made as to who is released from jail.

All involved AIC have been quarantined in place and are being monitored by medical staff multiple times each day. At this point all of the individuals exhibit only minor symptoms which can be adequately treated within the facility.

Jail Staff is working on contact tracing within the facility, both to determine the possible source of the spread and to reduced further positive cases. At this point no source has been identified and the spread appears to be isolated to the one housing unit.

On Monday February 22, 2021 Jail Administration was informed that several Adults-In-Custody (AIC) who share a housing unit were feeling symptoms consistent with Covid-19. Jail Medical Staff offered tests to the eleven AIC’s housed in the unit, ten of whom opted for the test. These individuals have been housed together for 23 days at the time the tests were administered.

On Wednesday, Jail Medical Staff was informed that preliminary lab results showed all ten samples were positive for Covid-19. Sheriff’s Office and Jail Medical Staff immediately implemented the established additional protocols to limit potential spread of the virus within the facility.

All eleven AIC’s who are housed together in the unit are presumed/confirmed to be positive for Covid-19. They are lodged and awaiting trial for allegedly committing serious person crimes. The severity of the charges, which range from Sex abuse 2, Rape 1, and Federal Holds, preclude the possibility of releasing the individuals back in to the community, at this time. We must consider the safety of the community when decisions are made as to who is released from jail.

All involved AIC have been quarantined in place and are being monitored by medical staff multiple times each day. At this point all of the individuals exhibit only minor symptoms which can be adequately treated within the facility.

Jail Staff is working on contact tracing within the facility, both to determine the possible source of the spread and to reduced further positive cases. At this point no source has been identified and the spread appears to be isolated to the one housing unit.

JCSO Case #21-997

Deputy Involved Shooting After Domestic Call

On 022321 at 1921 hours Jackson County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Eagle Point Police responded to a domestic disturbance in the 100 block of Idlewood Dr in Eagle Point. Prior to the arrival of law enforcement, the male half of the disturbance left the location along with another male in an SUV.

A few minutes later the SUV was stopped by police on Stevens Road near Idlewood in the parking lot of the church at that location. At 1936 hours one of the involved deputies advised shots were fired.

One male from the suspect vehicle is deceased. The other male is being treated at a local hospital. One JCSO deputy was struck by a bullet fired by a subject in the SUV. The injury was minor.

The case is now a Major Assault Death Investigation Unit (MADIU) call out and Oregon State Police is the lead agency.

No further details will be released at this time. Further releases will be coordinated with MADIAU and the Jackson County District Attorneys Office.

On Thursday, February 25 at 10:21 p.m., the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police responded to a report of two adult males shot with a firearm during a dispute over a vehicle at Highway 58 and Harbor Drive.  Both were transported to the hospital with multiple gunshot wounds. 

The suspect was described as a male, possibly Hispanic, armed with a firearm, and driving a blue Toyota Prius.  BOLOs were sent to surrounding agencies. 

Identities of the two known involved males will not be released at this time, pending investigation by the Lane County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from Oregon State Police. 

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office is asking for any information regarding the incident.  Please contact the Lane County Dispatch non-emergency number, 541-682-4141, and reference case #21-1152. 

At 7:49 a.m. on Thursday, February 25, Lane County Sheriff’s Office responded to an emergency call regarding a gunshot wound at the 75000 block of Shortridge Hill Road south of Cottage Grove.

As deputies were en route to the location, a second emergency call was received. Responding deputies located one adult with a gunshot wound in front of the home and transported the person to an ambulance.

Deputies made contact with another adult at the location. The second person also had a gunshot wound. Both people were transported with non-life-threatening injuries to PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend.

The identities of the people involved will not be released pending investigation by the Lane County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from Oregon State Police.

There is no ongoing threat to the community. No further information or comment will be made available.

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A candle left burning overnight was determined to be the cause of a fire in an RV which injured and displaced three residents on River Road in Lebanon Wednesday morning. Firefighters were on scene within 8 minutes of the 6:28 a.m. alarm and reported heavy fire from a fully involved 30-foot Class A motorhome. Crews began a direct attack on the fire while protecting a nearby camp trailer and modular home from fire exposure. Additional engines and water tenders were brought to the scene to control the blaze, which was outside of the city’s hydrant area. Ten apparatus and fifteen personnel responded to the incident.

The RV was occupied by two adults and one 9-year old child at the time of the fire. A 40-year old female sleeping on a sofa woke from sleep to find her foot on fire and was able to escape the RV with her young daughter, who also suffered minor burns to her hand. The woman sustained full thickness burns to her foot and ankle and was taken to Lebanon Community Hospital by a friend before fire crews arrived. The third victim was in the rear bedroom of the RV and was trapped by the body of fire in the center of the coach. With the help of a neighbor she was able to break out a rear window and escape the RV through the glass. She sustained minor lacerations to her foot and ankle and was treated on scene by LFD paramedics. Firefighters had the fire knocked down in 15 minutes and continued to overhaul the scene for another hour. The RV was a total loss.

The Lebanon Fire District took the opportunity to warn citizens of the dangers of unattended or unsupervised candles. “Candles can be very dangerous and should never be burned unattended or while sleeping.”, noted LFD Division Chief and Fire Marshal Jason Bolen. “This incident was less than a minute away from being a triple-fatal fire, and it was a completely avoidable situation.” Modern furnishings burn much hotter and faster than so called “legacy” furnishings, creating thicker smoke at a faster rate and with more heat than legacy fires, which ultimately reduces the time available for occupants to escape a fire. This scenario is even more dangerous in the tight, confined space of an RV.

“These people barely escaped with their lives, and for that we’re very grateful.”, Bolen said. “We hope that others can learn form this close call and prevent a future tragedy in their own home.” LFD recommends that all homes and RV’s have a working smoke alarm and fire extinguisher, and that family members are trained to use them. “Getting out of the house is the top priority” Bolen said, “But if someone can hit a small fire with an extinguisher on their way out of the house it may be enough to knock the fire down a bit before firefighters arrive.”  For more information on home fire safety or to schedule a free fire extinguisher class for your family or employees, contact the Fire & Life Safety Division of the Lebanon Fire District at 541-451-1901 or visit the district website at www.lebanonfire.org.

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For HD Video of this and other LFD incidents, please subscribe to the Lebanon Fire District YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjTxDBuPbD3DPAybCkCgEvg

For HD photos of this and other LFD incidents, please follow the Lebanon Fire District Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LebanonFireDistrict/?ref=bookmarks

For updates on large scale incidents within the Lebanon Fire District, follow us on Twitter: @LebanonFD

On Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at approximately 10:35 AM, Lebanon Police Department personnel responded to a report of a disturbance at 3199 Burdell Blvd. in Lebanon, Oregon. The person reporting the disturbance stated that there appeared to be yelling from a homeless encampment within the area of Burdell Blvd. involving what they believed to be two males.

Officers responded to the area and located a deceased white adult male. The second male involved was identified as Ronald Andrew Mowdy (DOB 09/30/1993) of Lebanon, Oregon.

Mowdy has an extensive history with the Lebanon Police Department that involves thefts, trespassing, narcotics and disturbances, as well as outstanding warrants for his arrest.

After investigation, Ronald Mowdy was taken into custody without incident and charged with the following crimes: Murder in the Second Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Burglary in the First Degree. The other male will not be identified at this time while we attempt next-of-kin notification.

This investigation is ongoing and there is no current danger to the community. We ask anyone with information to please contact Detective James Glover (541-258-4326) or Detective Sergeant Ryan Padua (541-258-4325).

Lincoln City Police arrest 40-year-old Andrew L. Barnett of Portland, Oregon after he stole a vehicle from an acquaintance and then led police on a short pursuit.

On Thursday, February 25, 2021 at about 3:30 AM, Lincoln City Police responded to a report that a vehicle parked at the North Shell Station, located at 4031 NW Hwy 101, had just been stolen. Upon arriving at the location, officers learned from the vehicle owner that she had stopped at the Shell station’s convenience store to purchase some items. While she was inside the store an acquaintance who had stayed in the vehicle drove off, taking the vehicle and the owner’s dog without permission.

Responding officers began searching the area for the vehicle and found it travelling southbound on NW Harbor traveling at a high rate of speed before spinning out while trying to make a hard turn. Officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop and the vehicle initially pulled into a nearby driveway with officers stopping behind it. The driver of the vehicle then pulled forward and then reversed, almost backing into the police vehicle. The driver then quickly accelerated forward driving through a yard before crashing the vehicle over a steep embankment in an attempt to get away. With the vehicle stuck partly in the road and partly on the embankment, the driver jumped out and started running away on foot with the officer following closely behind. The driver ran for about 50 feet before stopping as the officer was commanding him to do so.   

The driver, and only occupant of the vehicle, was taken into custody without further incident and identified as Andrew L. Barnett of Portland, Oregon. Barnett was initially checked at the scene by medical personnel from Pac West Ambulance and North Lincoln Fire & Rescue before being transported to Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital after he complained of having chest pains and a history of heart issues. Once released from the hospital, Barnett was transported to the Lincoln County Jail and lodged on the following charges: Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle, Felony Elude in a Motor Vehicle, Misdemeanor Elude on Foot, Reckless Driving, Fail to Perform the Duties of a Driver Involved in a Crash and Theft I of a Companion Animal. The vehicle was towed from the location and the victim was reunited with her dog.

The Lincoln City Police would like to thank Pacific West Ambulance and North Lincoln Fire & Rescue their assistance with this incident. We are thankful there were no injuries and only minor property damage sustained as a result of the pursuit.   

Submitted by:  Sergeant Jeffrey Winn

TIP OF THE WEEK

Date:  February 26, 2021                   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:     Sheriff Curtis Landers

                   541-265-0654

                   s@co.lincoln.or.us">lcsheriff@co.lincoln.or.us                                              

DATA PRIVACY

Unfortunately, every year thousands of Oregonians fall victim to online criminals who disguise themselves as legitimate entities.

Internet scams continue to evolve and can vary widely. The term generally refers to someone using internet services or software to defraud or take advantage of victims, typically for financial gain.

Cyber-criminals have become quite savvy in their attempts to lure people in and get you to click on a link or open an attachment. They may claim to be associated with a financial institution, an e-commerce site, a government agency or any other service or business. Links in email, social media posts and online advertising are often how cyber-criminals try to compromise your information. If it looks suspicious, DO NOT CLICK ON IT!

To protect yourself from this type of fraud, here are a few important tips:

• When dealing with uninvited contacts from people or businesses, whether it's over the phone, by mail, email, in person or on a social networking site, always consider the possibility that the approach may be a scam.
• Always use password protection, don’t share access with others (including remotely), update security software and back up content. Protect your WiFi network with a password and avoid using public computers or WiFi hotspots to access online banking or provide personal information.
• Don’t click on links, open attachments, reply to the message, attempt to unsubscribe, or call any telephone number listed in suspicious messages. Do NOT give out any money, credit card info, or other personal details.

Below, you can find the flyer on the recently launched “Do Not Click” Campaign from the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection Division:

https://www.doj.state.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/DOJ-Do_Not_Click-Flyer.pdf

If you have information about or have fallen victim to a scam, please contact the Oregon Attorney General's Consumer Hotline at 1-877-877-9392 or online at www.oregonconsumer.gov

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

It has come to our attention that Gavin Epperson has posted on social media regarding his alleged involvement in the shooting death of Richard A. Mann. The investigation into this incident is ongoing. It is still too early in the investigation to implicate or fully exonerate any of the involved parties or their actions.  The community rightfully holds the expectation that the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office acts only on the facts and evidence related to this case without bias or assumptions.

Prior Releases:

February 24th, 2021: Investigators have interviewed several witnesses and gathered additional evidence related to the events surrounding the shooting death of Richard A. Mann.  Law enforcement would like to interview 23-year-old Donovan Eugene Carey-Bennett as a witness to the incident. Anyone who is in contact with Carey-Bennett or has information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Abby Dorsey at 541-265-0777.

Richard A. Mann was found deceased on the morning of February 20th, 2021 near Government Hill Rd in Siletz, Oregon.  The Medical Examiner determined his death was caused by gunfire.

On February 23rd, 2021, investigators from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Lincoln City Police Department, and Newport Police Department executed search warrants on two residences in the 500 block of Tolowa Court in Siletz.  A vehicle and evidence were seized as a result of the search warrants.

On February 20, 2021, at approximately 6:15 am, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a call reporting an unconscious male laying alongside the road near Government Hill Road in Siletz, Oregon.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene and located Richard Allen Mann, 36, of Logsden, deceased. Evidence at the scene suggested foul play. The Lincoln County Major crime team was activated, and the investigation is ongoing.

The Sheriff’s Office is being assisted by the Oregon State Police Criminal Investigation Unit (CID), Oregon State Police Forensics, Toledo Police, Newport Police, Lincoln City Police and the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

Update- Siletz, OR Homicide Investigation- February 24th, 2021:

Investigators have interviewed several witnesses and gathered additional evidence related to the events surrounding the shooting death of Richard A. Mann.  Law enforcement would like to interview 23-year-old Donovan Eugene Carey-Bennett as a witness to the incident. Anyone who is in contact with Carey-Bennett or has information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Abby Dorsey at 541-265-0777.

Prior Releases:

Richard A. Mann was found deceased on the morning of February 20th, 2021 near Government Hill Rd in Siletz, Oregon.  The Medical Examiner determined his death was caused by gunfire.

On February 23rd, 2021, investigators from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Lincoln City Police Department, and Newport Police Department executed search warrants on two residences in the 500 block of Tolowa Court in Siletz.  A vehicle and evidence were seized as a result of the search warrants.

On February 20, 2021, at approximately 6:15 am, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a call reporting an unconscious male laying alongside the road near Government Hill Road in Siletz, Oregon.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene and located Richard Allen Mann, 36, of Logsden, deceased. Evidence at the scene suggested foul play. The Lincoln County Major crime team was activated, and the investigation is ongoing.

The Sheriff’s Office is being assisted by the Oregon State Police Criminal Investigation Unit (CID), Oregon State Police Forensics, Toledo Police, Newport Police, Lincoln City Police and the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

Update:

Richard A. Mann was found deceased on the morning of February 20th, 2021 near Government Hill Rd in Siletz, Oregon.  The Medical Examiner determined his death was caused by gunfire.

On February 23rd, 2021, investigators from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Lincoln City Police Department, and Newport Police Department executed search warrants on two residences in the 500 block of Tolowa Court in Siletz.  A vehicle and evidence were seized as a result of the search warrants.

The investigation remains active.  Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Abby Dorsey at 541-265-0777 and refer to case 21S-00358.

Original Release:

On February 20, 2021, at approximately 6:15 am, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a call reporting an unconscious male laying alongside the road near Government Hill Road in Siletz, Oregon.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene and located Richard Allen Mann, 36, of Logsden, deceased. Evidence at the scene suggested foul play. The Lincoln County Major crime team was activated, and the investigation is ongoing.

The Sheriff’s Office is being assisted by the Oregon State Police Criminal Investigation Unit (CID), Oregon State Police Forensics, Toledo Police, Newport Police, Lincoln City Police and the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office is requesting anyone with information please contact Detective Abby Dorsey at 541-265-0777 and refer to case 21S-00358. 

On Thursday, February 11th, 2021, a historic ice storm arrived in the Willamette Valley leaving over 90,000 residents in Marion County without power.  As concerned family members and friends began calling in about medically vulnerable loved ones without power,  Search and Rescue deputies and volunteers assisted with staffing call center phone lines,  coordinating welfare checks, and assisting with road closures. 

On February 19th Marion County was contacted by officials from the State of Oregon offering additional support from the Oregon Army National Guard to proactively assist with welfare checks in the community.  Using information provided by Marion County Emergency Management and utility companies, Search and Rescue coordinators identified rural areas of Marion County to focus their efforts on due to projections the residents could be without power for several more days. 

Beginning on February 22nd, 2021, Deputies and 16 service members from the 1186th Military Police Company could be seen in various areas around Marion County as they conducted welfare checks on residents.  Over the course of four days, February 22nd – 25th, welfare checks were conducted at over 640 residences where teams helped distribute water, blankets, batteries, and other items to community members. 

When asked about the four day joint operation, Deputy Sofia Contenta commented, “While out checking on people around Marion County it was great being able to work with many of the same people who were activated to help during the Beachie Fire.” 

This afternoon, February 25th, Sheriff Joe Kast visited with National Guard members and presented each of them with a Sheriffs’ Office patch as a sign of gratitude for their efforts.  When asked about the collaborative effort, Sheriff Kast said, “Over the last year we have experienced a number of unprecedented events around Marion County.  Each time we are presented with a new challenge, we’ve seen partners come forward and work together to help our community in their time of need.”

As the joint effort with the Oregon Army National Guard concludes, many resources within the community will remain available.  For an up to date list of current resources please visit www.co.marion.or.us/alerts.

This afternoon, February 22nd, 2021, at approximately 1:22 p.m. a neighbor called 911 after seeing a possible burglar going into a nearby home.  As deputies were responding to the 4800 block of Oak Park Dr NE, in the unincorporated area of northeast Salem, the homeowner also called in saying they could see someone inside their home on their surveillance camera.  The homeowner checked their cameras after being alerted by a neighbor about seeing someone who didn’t appear to belong.

The first deputies arrived at the scene within 3-4 minutes of the original 911 call.  Once additional deputies arrived, they began loud hailing in front of the residence calling for the person inside to come out.  Approximately 15 minutes later, a male came out of the residence and surrendered to deputies without incident.

The patrol supervisor at the scene, Sgt. Tom Crofts, complimented neighbors for their willingness to work together.  “The home owners were fortunate to have neighbors who were alert and helping look out for one another.  This was a great example of people paying attention to activity in their neighborhood and talking to each other when something doesn’t look right.” 

The suspect, Richard Woods, 65, of Salem was taken to Marion County Jail where he was charged with Burglary in the First Degree and Theft in the Second Degree.  Additionally, Woods had outstanding warrants for his arrest for a Failure to Appear in Salem Municipal Court and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle.

Earlier today the Marion County Sheriff’s Office provided preliminary details about a serious injury crash involving a cyclist who was struck by a vehicle on Lancaster Drive SE on Sunday evening, February 21st, 2021.  Following the crash, the cyclist was taken to an area hospital with critical injuries.  The cyclist has since succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced deceased late Monday morning.

 The cyclist has been identified as Blake Saville, 25, of Salem.  The involved driver in the crash, Anthony Mankins, 29, of Salem was uninjured. 

The crash remains under investigation; no further information is available for release at this time.

Orginal Media Release from 2/22/21 @ 9:02 a.m.

At approximately 8:17 p.m. on Sunday, February 21, 2021, Willamette Valley Communications Center received a 911 call from a driver reporting they struck a cyclist in the 300 block of Lancaster Drive SE.  When first responders arrived at the scene they located a 25-year-old male cyclist who had sustained life-threatening injuries.  The male was taken to a local hospital where he remains in critical condition.  The driver was not injured in the crash and remained at the scene. 

Investigators from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Crash Team were called out to investigate.  Based upon initial information, investigators believe the driver was traveling northbound on Lancaster Drive when the cyclist was struck while crossing the roadway.  Neither driver impairment nor speed appears to have been contributing factors to the collision.  Lancaster Drive SE was closed to traffic for several hours during the investigation.

Deputies are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact Dep. Michael Frieze at ieze@co.marion.or.us">mfrieze@co.marion.or.us or to call our non-emergency dispatch at 503-588-5032.

On Friday, February 26, 2021 at approximately 5:30 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a three-vehicle crash on Interstate 5 near MP 270.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a Toyota Corolla, operated by Norma Palacios (59) of Keizer, was northbound in the center lane, began to change lanes, and collided with a Nissan Rogue operated by Arnold Brown (52) of Albany.  The Toyota Corolla then collided with a Nissan Rogue operated by Paul Tallman (57) of Eugene. 

Palacios sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

There were no other serious injuries.

OSP was assisted by Woodburn Fire Department and ODOT.

On Thursday, February 25, 2021 at approximately 7:15 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy 101 near milepost 227.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a commercial motor vehicle with double trailers had became disabled on the northbound shoulder of Hwy 101.  Previous to becoming disabled the CMV was operated by Anthony Prom (50) of Seattle, WA.  

A Chevrolet S-10 pickup, operated by Frank Martinez (77) of Lakeside,  traveled onto the shoulder and crashed into the rear of the CMV combination. 

Martinez sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Prom was not injured.

OSP was assisted by the Coos County Sheriff's Department, Hauser Fire Department, Bay Cities Ambulance, ODOT, and Southern Oregon Public Safety Chaplains. 

On Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at approximately 2:45 P.M., Oregon State Police Troopers and emergency personnel responded to a two vehicle crash on Hwy 140W near milepost 36.

Preliminary investigation revealed a Toyota SR5 pickup, operated by Paula West (64) of Klamath Falls, was eastbound when it lost control and collided with a westbound Dodge Grand Caravan operated by Mary Wolf (63) of Chiloquin.

West was transported to the hospital.

Wolf sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.

There were two passengers in the Dodge - David Burton (37) of Chiloquin was transported to the hospital and a juvenile female was transported, by air ambulance, to the hospital.

OSP was assisted by Rocky Point Fire and EMS, Klamath County Fire District 4, and ODOT.

The Oregon State Police is requesting the public’s assistance to help identify the person(s) responsible for unlawfully shooting and killing a cow elk in Wheeler County. 

On Thursday, February 18, 2021 Oregon State Police Troopers discovered the remains of an unlawfully killed cow elk in the northern Fossil Unit, on USFS Road 25 near the 150 spur (Henry Creek area).  The kill was fresh and was believed to have been shot and taken at night, during the evening hours of February 17.  Additionally, an ATV or UTV was utilized to transport the elk upon Henry Creek Road traveling down to the junction with Kahler Basin Road, north of the town of Spray. 

If you have any information regarding this incident please contact Sr. Trooper Brian Jewett through the Turn In Poachers (TIP) hotline at 1-800-452-7888 or 541-980-6081.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators Poaching wildlife and damaging habitats affects present and future generations of wildlife, impacts communities and the economy, and creates enforcement challenges.

The Oregon Hunters Association offers rewards to persons, through their T.I.P. fund, for information leading to the issuance of a citation to a person(s), or an arrest made of a person(s) for illegal possession, killing, or taking of bighorn sheep, mountain goat, moose, elk, deer, antelope, bear, cougar, wolf, furbearers and/or upland game birds and water fowl. T.I.P. rewards can also be paid for the illegal taking, netting, snagging, and/or dynamiting of game fish, and/or shell fish, and for the destruction of habitat.

In addition rewards may be paid for information leading to the issuance of a citation to a person(s), or an arrest made of a person(s) who have illegally obtained Oregon hunting/angling license or tags. People who “work” the system and falsely apply for resident license or tags are not legally hunting or angling and are considered poachers.

Rewards:

Bighorn sheep, mountain goat, moose $1,000

Elk, deer, antelope $500

Bear, cougar, wolf $300

Habitat destruction $300

Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags $200

Game fish, shell fish $100

Upland birds, waterfowl $100

Furbearers $100

Preference Points:

5 Points-Bighorn Sheep

5 Points-Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points-Moose

5 Points-Wolf

4 Points-Elk

4 Points-Deer

4 Points-Antelope

4 Points-Bear

4 Points- Cougar

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity: 

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP(677)

TIP E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us (Monitored M-F 8:00AM - 5:00PM)

On Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021 at approximately 5:16 P.M. Roseburg Police and Roseburg Firefighters responded to a reported vehicle versus electric scooter collision in the 2400 block of NE Stephens in Roseburg.  

An investigation into the incident found an adult male was riding a stand up electric scooter southbound in the dedicated bicycle lane on the east side of the road.  A vehicle was exiting a parking lot on the east side of NE Stephens, preparing to turn north on Stephens.  As the car turned, the scooter tried stopping, but the male was ejected over the handlebars of the scooter, and he got stuck under the vehicle.  Roseburg Fire personnel were able to extricate the male from under the vehicle and he was transported to Mercy with life-threatening injuries.  The male later died of his injuries while at Mercy.  

The driver of the vehicle is a Sutherlin resident, and the male on the scooter is a Roseburg resident.  The identification of the male is being withheld at this time until next of kin can be notified.

The investigation is ongoing, but at this time there are no indications that impairment was a factor in this incident.  Stephens was briefly reduced to southbound traffic only, and was later opened to one northbound lane.  The roadway was cleared and opened for regular traffic around 7:00 P.M.  

On Monday, February 22nd, 2021 at approximately 2:57 P.M., the Douglas County 911 center received numerous calls regarding a shooting in the 1000 block of NE Stephens Street in Roseburg.  Initial reports were that a male shot several people at that location.  Police Officers from the Roseburg Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police responded to the scene.  Emergency personnel from the Roseburg Fire Department and ambulance services also responded to the scene.

One of the reporting parties was an off duty Roseburg Police Sergeant who happened to be at a business across the street from the shooting.  That Sergeant stayed in contact with Dispatch personnel and on duty officers to apprise them of information regarding the suspect’s movement and actions.   Approximately 2 minutes from the start of the incident, the suspect crossed the road into the Ok’s Auto Supply parking lot and the off duty officer tackled the suspect to the ground.  The suspect was restrained until on duty officers arrived and took him into custody.

During the subsequent investigation it was learned that three people were injured during the shooting.  A 36 year old male died of his injuries on scene.  A 44 year old female, and another 40 year old female also appeared to have gunshot injuries.  Both females were transported to Mercy via ambulance for treatment.  The 44 year old female was later transported to Riverbend Hospital in Springfield, and eventually to OHSU in Portland.  She is being treated for life threatening injuries at this time.  The 40 year old female received significant injuries, but they are non-life-threatening.

The suspect, 33 year old Devin Lee McNamara of Roseburg was treated at Mercy and was later lodged at Douglas County Corrections on the charges of Murder II and two counts of Assault in the First Degree.  The Douglas County Major Crimes Team was activated and is continuing this investigation.  Names of the victims are not being released at this time until next of kin can be notified.   

SPRINGFIELD, Ore. - PeaceHealth Oregon network Chief Operating Officer (COO) Todd Salnas is transitioning into the role of chief executive of the PeaceHealth Oregon network, effective March 1, 2021. 
 
Salnas, who has been with PeaceHealth for nearly two years, has served as interim chief executive for the last four-plus months while continuing to support his COO role. In September, PeaceHealth Oregon network Chief Executive Mary Kingston took an unexpected and extended time off following a family emergency. 

“While we were all hoping that Mary would be able to return and continue serving with her deeply devoted heart, her family is where she is most needed,” said Richard DeCarlo, PeaceHealth’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. “During this time, Todd effectively provided continuity, stability and support for the network’s caregivers, leaders and providers. Todd is a highly respected and experienced servant leader who lives and breathes the PeaceHealth Mission and Values. This appointment comes after an overwhelming endorsement by PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Community Health Board members, as well as physician and community leaders.”

Salnas has more than 20 years of proven and diverse experience in the healthcare industry – most of which have been in leadership positions with a focus on growth/referral strategies, process improvement, patient experience and clinical excellence. 

“It is an honor to assume the PeaceHealth Oregon chief executive role,” said Salnas. “I am inspired by Mary’s legacy and look forward to building on and expanding strong relationships and partnerships with our local boards, physician leaders and diverse array of community organizations.” 
 
Recruitment will begin for a COO, which is a critical role to ensuring effective oversight of operations for the Oregon network.

Salnas is Lean Green Belt-certified and has earned numerous honors including the Catholic Healthcare Tomorrow’s Leader Award, North Bay Business Leaders 40 Under Age 40 Award and the ACHE Early Healthcare Executive Regent’s Award.

After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in health sciences from the University of Arizona, Salnas received a dual-degree master’s in business administration and health services administration, both from Arizona State University. 

About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.
 

SPRINGFIELD, Ore. - PeaceHealth Oregon network Chief Operating Officer (COO) Todd Salnas is transitioning into the role of chief executive of the PeaceHealth Oregon network, effective March 1, 2021. 
 
Salnas, who has been with PeaceHealth for nearly two years, has served as interim chief executive for the last four-plus months while continuing to support his COO role. In September, PeaceHealth Oregon network Chief Executive Mary Kingston took an unexpected and extended time off following a family emergency. 

“While we were all hoping that Mary would be able to return and continue serving with her deeply devoted heart, her family is where she is most needed,” said Richard DeCarlo, PeaceHealth’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. “During this time, Todd effectively provided continuity, stability and support for the network’s caregivers, leaders and providers. Todd is a highly respected and experienced servant leader who lives and breathes the PeaceHealth Mission and Values. This appointment comes after an overwhelming endorsement by PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center Community Health Board members, as well as physician and community leaders.”

Salnas has more than 20 years of proven and diverse experience in the healthcare industry – most of which have been in leadership positions with a focus on growth/referral strategies, process improvement, patient experience and clinical excellence. 

“It is an honor to assume the PeaceHealth Oregon chief executive role,” said Salnas. “I am inspired by Mary’s legacy and look forward to building on and expanding strong relationships and partnerships with our local boards, physician leaders and diverse array of community organizations.” 
 
Recruitment will begin for a COO, which is a critical role to ensuring effective oversight of operations for the Oregon network.

Salnas is Lean Green Belt-certified and has earned numerous honors including the Catholic Healthcare Tomorrow’s Leader Award, North Bay Business Leaders 40 Under Age 40 Award and the ACHE Early Healthcare Executive Regent’s Award.

After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in health sciences from the University of Arizona, Salnas received a dual-degree master’s in business administration and health services administration, both from Arizona State University. 

About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.
 

EUGENE, Ore. – On Feb. 19, Strides for Social Justice – a PeaceHealth initiative developed in partnership with the Eugene Marathon – officially launched during the NAACP’s Annual Freedom Fund Dinner.

“The senseless death of George Floyd was not the first grave injustice Black, Indigenous and People of Color have suffered in our nation. But the world woke up to this pervasive racism,” said Todd Salnas, interim chief executive, PeaceHealth Oregon network. “PeaceHealth’s Values of Respect, Stewardship, Collaboration and Social Justice ground us in all we do to support our community and one another. Over the course of 2020, these values were critical to guiding our work navigating the COVID-19 pandemic as well as racial injustice.”

Strides for Social Justice is designed to be an inclusive, family-friendly app – available on both iOS and Android app stores – that will engage and educate participants on the contributions, achievements and milestones of Black residents within our community.

“When selecting one of the four routes on this free app, users will be guided to various landmarks in Eugene that collectively create a journey that provides a view into local Black history and the powerful influence of Black residents within our community,” said Ian Dobson, Race Director, Eugene Marathon. “The program also aims to encourage physical activity for people of all abilities and fitness levels while generating financial resources in support of the NAACP and other organizations focused on social justice initiatives.”

“Reflections are a deeply engrained tradition at PeaceHealth, and the Strides for Social Justice experience provides moments for pausing and reflecting on the history and how it moved users personally,” added Salnas.

Dobson also noted that, “Work is in progress to develop a Spanish version of the app, and new routes will be introduced in the coming months.”

A Steering Committee comprised of dynamic community members with varied backgrounds were influential in shaping this program. One of its members, Eric Richardson, executive director, Eugene Springfield NAACP, had this to add: “Only by looking back can we move forward.  We hope the members of our community take a moment to download this app as it is only through awareness, understanding and action that we can truly be part of the solution. To quote Nelson Mandela: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

“Together we can stop the cycle of racism, building a more inclusive culture in the Pacific Northwest and beyond,” said Salnas.

For more information, please visit www.stridesforsocialjustice.org.

About PeaceHealth: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a group practice with more than 900 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org.

###

Pacific Power concludes service restoration in wake of historic February ice storm

As of Sunday evening, February 21, all Pacific Power customers impacted by the ice storms have service.

PORTLAND, Ore. (Feb. 24, 2021) — As of Sunday evening, February 21, all Pacific Power customers impacted by the artic Valentine’s Day storm have service. At times, upwards of 80,000 customers were without power in the aftermath of the storms with over 400 field personnel working 24/7 through ice and snow to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.

With Pacific Power’s restoration work completed, the company made available internal and contract crews to Portland General Electric, whose customers have been hard hit by the storms as well.

“Crews and contractors were all hands-on deck for this monumental restoration effort,” said Allen Berreth, vice president of operations. “A special thanks goes out to the crews that came to assist us from Rocky Mountain Power within our PacifiCorp family and from MidAmerican Energy and NV Energy in our extended Berkshire Hathaway Energy family. And a heartfelt thank you and deep gratitude to our customers affected by this storm. They showed tremendous patience and generosity during a very trying time.”

PORTLAND, Ore.—A former certified public accountant and former chief financial officer of a McMinnville, Oregon company faces federal criminal charges after allegedly evading $99,000 in personal income taxes, announced U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams.

Kent Jensen, 58, a resident of Gilbert, Arizona, has been charged by criminal information with two counts of felony tax evasion.

According to court documents, in 2014 and 2015, Jenson, who also previously worked as an auditor with an international accounting firm and a financial consultant for a business in Milwaukie, Oregon, allegedly set up several nominee companies and nominee bank accounts to conceal most of his personal income from the IRS. Jensen arranged for his financial consulting clients to pay his consulting fees to these nominee companies. He then deposited the funds into nominee bank accounts and used the proceeds for personal expenses. In 2014 and 2015, Jensen submitted fraudulent personal income tax returns that substantially underreported his personal income and the taxes owed.

“Now that the tax filing season has begun, and tax revenues are right now being used to assist Americans through the COVID pandemic, cases like this are a reminder that all taxpayers have a lawful duty to file accurate tax returns and pay their fair share of taxes,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “This office and the IRS will aggressively investigate and prosecute anyone who criminally abuses the tax system.”

Jensen faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years’ supervised release for each of two counts of tax evasion. He will be arraigned on March 18, 2021 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge.

This case is being investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Seth D. Uram, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

A criminal information is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams announced today that Christopher Claypool, 52, of Spokane, Washington, the former general manager of the Jacklin Seed Company, a producer and marketer of grass seed and turfgrass based in Liberty Lake, Washington, has been charged by criminal information with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering as part of multiple schemes to defraud Jacklin’s former owner, the J.R. Simplot Company, and its customers.

As general manager of Jacklin, Claypool oversaw the company’s product sales to domestic and foreign distributors. Jacklin contracted with independent growers in Oregon for the production of proprietary grass seed varieties and fulfilled orders from a distribution facility in Albany, Oregon. Differences in grass seed yield rates resulted in the over-delivery of some varieties and underproduction of others.

At some point between 2013 and 2015, Claypool and other Jacklin employees realized that growers’ preference for higher-yield grasses was creating substantial shortages of lower-yield varieties Jacklin had contracted to deliver to its customers. Claypool and a colleague who oversaw product fulfillment at the company’s Albany distribution facility recognized that these shortages would either cause Jacklin to fail to deliver on its existing contracts or require Jacklin to pay a premium to growers to acquire necessary inventory, substantially eroding company profits. Claypool and his colleague anticipated that either result would negatively affect their careers.

From January 2015 and continuing until at least the summer of 2019, Claypool and his colleague directed Jacklin employees, at the Albany facility and elsewhere, to fulfill customer orders with different varieties of grass seed than the customers had ordered, to conceal such substitutions from the customers, and to invoice the customers as though no substitutions had taken place. Claypool and his colleague referred to this scheme as “getting creative.”

To conceal the unauthorized substitutions, Claypool and his colleague directed Jacklin employees to package the substitute seed varieties with false and misleading labels. They also directed employees to invoice the customers under the original terms of their contracts, notwithstanding the unauthorized substitutions. As a result of this scheme, Jacklin invoiced customers for more than $1.1 million of grass seed the company never delivered.

In addition to the undisclosed seed substitutions, Claypool engaged in several other fraudulent schemes while serving as Jacklin’s general manager. In one scheme, he directed an accomplice to create a limited-liability corporation (LLC) to pose as an independent grass seed broker. Claypool and a colleague conspired to route a portion of Jacklin’s overseas sales through a competing grass-seed seller based in Jefferson, Oregon. The company would, in turn, add its own mark-up to the sales and kick back outsized commissions to Claypool through his accomplice’s LLC. From December 2018 through August 2019, Claypool generated more than $369,000 in fraudulent commissions.

In a third scheme, Claypool conspired with the owner of an independent travel agency in Spokane to inflate the purported costs of Claypool’s international business travel. Claypool traveled overseas extensively for business and had authority to approve his own travel expenses. In lieu of using Simplot’s contract travel agency, Claypool booked his flights through the independent travel agent. The agent booked economy and other lower-cost fares for Claypool, but created fake first-class bookings on the most expensive comparable itineraries in order to generate inflated invoices that he transmitted to Simplot, through Claypool, for payment. In total, the agent overbilled more than $500,000 for international airfare, the majority of which Claypool ultimately received in kickbacks from the agent.

In the most lucrative fraud scheme, Claypool directed Simplot’s payment of more than twelve million dollars in “rebates” and “commissions” to entities that were posing as foreign sales partners but were, in fact, fronts for Claypool’s coconspirators in embezzling those funds.  The coconspirators then transmitted part of their ill-gotten gains from accounts in Hong Kong to real estate investments in Hawaii under Claypool’s control.  Years later, Claypool sold the real estate and wired the proceeds to investment accounts in Spokane as part of an elaborate money laundering operation.

Claypool faces a maximum sentence of 70 years in prison, fines of more than $15 million, and 5 years’ supervised release. His arraignment has not yet been scheduled.

This case is being investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Ryan W. Bounds, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

A criminal information is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

# # #

News from the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, February 2021:

Upper Columbia Tribes gather experts to strategize about accelerating the attack on Northern Pike

Emerging trends for the Northwest power system: Reducing carbon will transform it

Report: Mid-Columbia PUDs are meeting salmon and steelhead mitigation requirements for dam impacts

Umatilla Tribes’ project improves habitat and river conditions for fish in the Upper Grande Ronde River

Salem, Ore. – Donations to the Oregon Cultural Trust surpassed $5 million for the first time ever in 2020, as generous Oregonians responded to the cultural community’s urgent need due to losses suffered during the pandemic. The $5.2 million in donations represents a 13 percent (close to $605,000) increase over 2019 and will support grant awards to cultural organizations across the state this summer.

“We asked Oregonians to help us protect Oregon culture and their response exceeded our expectations,” said Cultural Trust Executive Director Brian Rogers. “These funds will go a long way in helping us support the cultural community’s recovery in 2021.”

“It’s extraordinary that, despite the challenges we all faced last year, so many Oregonians stepped up to support our arts, history, heritage and humanities,” said Cultural Trust Board Chair Niki Price. “It’s a testament to how much we value our great quality of life and the more than 1,500 cultural organizations that contribute to it every day. We are incredibly grateful.”

The $5.2 million fundraising total includes 11,161 donations, a 17.5 percent increase over 2019, and 2,028 new donors. It also includes a record $537,909 raised through an ongoing partnership with the Willamette Week Give!Guide.

“Our partnership with Give!Guide is one of the cornerstones of our campaign,” said Rogers. “It is a great way for people to learn about the Cultural Trust and the tax credit, bringing in 994 new donor households this year alone.”

More than half of the money raised will be distributed directly to Oregon’s nonprofit cultural community this summer; the remainder will grow the Cultural Trust permanent fund. Cultural Trust grants are distributed through five Statewide Cultural Partners – Oregon Arts Commission, Oregon Heritage, Oregon Historical Society, Oregon Humanities and the Oregon State Office of Historic Preservation – as well as to 45 County/Tribal Cultural Coalitions, who regrant the funds in their communities, and directly to cultural nonprofits via Cultural Development Grants.

The 78 projects supported by Cultural Development Grants in FY2021 include:

• The preservation and sharing of Hawaiian traditional cultural practices online and in person by Kapi Oanuenue in Ashland;
• The development of an interactive digital media channel for nonprofits and independent mediamakers by Open Signal in Portland;
• A series of cultural programs to reengage the community after months of COVID shutdown by the Tower Theatre Foundation in Bend;
• The production of “From the Streets to the Symphony,” a documentary about the collaborative composition of new music by houseless young filmmakers and Oregon Symphony creative chair Gabriel Kahane with Outside the Frame in Portland;
• The restoration of Native American access to First Foods and other cultural plants of significance in Southwestern Oregon by the Indigenous Gardens Network at Southern Oregon University in Ashland;
• The development of the first Oregon Online African American Museum by Oregon Black Pioneers in Salem; and
• Access to media arts for historically underserved Black students to exercise their imaginations, develop a voice and prepare stories for public dissemination through the Journalistic Learning Initiative in Eugene.

For a full list of Cultural Trust grant projects, including links to Cultural County Coalitions and several hundred county projects they are funding this year, visit www.culturaltrust.org.

The exclusive contracted partner for the Cultural Trust’s 2020 fundraising campaign was Bell+Funk of Eugene.

# # #

The Oregon Cultural Trust was established by the Oregon Legislature in 2001 as a unique means to reward Oregonians who invest in culture. Oregonians who donate to a cultural nonprofit and then make a matching gift to the Cultural Trust receive a 100% state tax credit for their gift to the Trust.

Oregon has been approved to issue Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) emergency allotments for the month of March 2021. These emergency allotments will be available on:

• March 10 for current SNAP recipients
• March 30 for new SNAP recipients after March 10

Emergency allotments raise each household’s regularly monthly SNAP allotment to the maximum allowable amount based on household size. Per the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), SNAP households already receiving the maximum allowable allotment based on household size are not eligible to receive the emergency allotment.

SNAP recipients do not have to take any action to receive these supplemental benefits as they will be issued directly on their EBT cards. Total benefits will be different based on each household's regular monthly allotment for the month of February.

The maximum monthly SNAP benefit amounts by household size and more information about emergency allotments are available at https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/About-SNAP.aspx.

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-dhs-benefits. For local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 or reach out to the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-855-ORE-ADRC or 1-855-673-2372.

Deadline to apply: March 5, 2021

SNAP recipients living in one of the nine counties below who experienced food loss or had to destroy food due to the recent power outages can apply for replacement food benefits. Replacement benefits are available for regular and emergency SNAP allotments.

Counties with an extended deadline:

• Benton
• Clackamas
• Hood River
• Linn
• Marion
• Multnomah
• Polk
• Yamhill
• Washington

“We appreciate the ability to extend the deadline for Oregonians to request replacement benefits,” said Self-Sufficiency Programs Director Dan Haun. “This extension is critical as many people are still without power or assessing the ability to provide food for their households.”

How to apply

• Phone: 800-699-9075
• Email: SSP.StatewideWorkshare@dhsoha.state.or.us
• In-person: Call your local office before visiting
  You can find your local office by calling 2-1-1 or online at https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/Offices/Pages/Self-Sufficiency.aspx

“We encourage SNAP recipients applying for replacement benefits to stay home and make their request by phone or email. The health and safety of Oregonians and staff is still a top priority, and we want to limit in-person visits to reduce exposure to COVID-19,” director Haun stated.

More information is available online at https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/Replacement%20-Benefits.aspx.

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-dhs-benefits. For local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 or reach out to the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-855-ORE-ADRC or 1-855-673-2372.

(Salem) – Oregon OSHA has fined a Florence restaurant $18,150 for three violations of standards designed to protect employees from the coronavirus disease. In one of the infractions, The Firehouse Restaurant willfully continued to potentially expose workers to the virus, despite a public health order limiting the capacity of indoor dining to zero in an “extreme risk” county.

The citation resulted from an inspection initiated in response to multiple complaints about The Firehouse Restaurant (its legal name is McKenzie Brown Corp.). The division conducted the inspection by phone. That decision was made after an investigation of social media posts and websites discovered the potential for armed people to block access to the business.

Moreover, the investigation showed that some extremist groups were encouraging people to engage in violence against Oregon OSHA compliance officers if they visited the site.

Using his discretionary authority under state law, Oregon OSHA Administrator Michael Wood imposed a $17,800 penalty for the willful violation. That is twice the minimum penalty for such a violation. The decision reflects the need to ensure a more appropriate deterrent effect where employers insist on disregarding public health measures.

Such willful behavior puts employees at risk and enables the employer to achieve a competitive advantage over businesses that choose to comply with workplace health and safety standards.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have consistently helped employers understand and follow health and safety rules. Most employers are choosing to do the right thing in the face of immense challenges,” Wood said. “We thank them for their ongoing efforts as we work to defeat this disease. As for the vocal few that continue to defy standards and to put their workers at risk, we will continue to carry out our enforcement work.”

Altogether, Oregon OSHA cited three violations of the division’s temporary rule to address COVID-19 risks in the workplace:

• In allowing indoor dining, The Firehouse Restaurant purposely chose to disregard capacity limitations imposed by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) for such establishments in a county designated as Extreme Risk. It was a willful violation. Oregon OSHA proposed a discretionary penalty of $17,800.
• The restaurant failed to develop and implement an infection control plan. Such a plan could include redesigning the workspace to enable physical distancing and reducing the use of shared surfaces and tools. It was a serious violation, carrying a proposed penalty of $175.
• The restaurant did not conduct any COVID-19 risk assessment to identify potential employee exposure to the virus and to address how to reduce such exposure. It was a serious violation, carrying a penalty of $175.

The inspection of The Firehouse Restaurant found the business committing the violations on or about Dec. 26 and continuing to do so afterward. The inspection included an interview with Kylie McKenzie, manager of the restaurant.

McKenzie said she originally closed the business to the public, but later decided to re-open it, even though she was aware the decision went against measures to prevent the spread of the disease in an extreme-risk county.

Ongoing refusals to correct violations and come into compliance with workplace health and safety standards can lead to additional higher penalties. Meanwhile, if an Oregon OSHA inspection documents violations while a county is at extreme risk, but the county’s risk level drops before the citation is issued, the citation will still be issued. The change in risk levels may affect how the violation needs to be corrected, but not whether it is cited.

Employers have 30 days to appeal citations.

In addition to its enforcement activities, Oregon OSHA offers employers and workers a variety of consultation, information, and education resources addressing COVID-19.

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Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, visit osha.oregon.gov.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

(Salem) – Oregon OSHA has fined The New Blue Hen, a restaurant in Florence, $17,800 for willfully continuing to potentially expose workers to the coronavirus disease. The business did so despite knowing it was violating a public health order limiting the capacity for indoor dining to zero in an “extreme risk” county.

The fine was the result of an inspection opened in response to multiple complaints about The New Blue Hen. The inspection was carried out despite several people – including one carrying a firearm – who blocked the business’ entrance and threatened compliance officers.

Using his discretionary authority under state law, Oregon OSHA Administrator Michael Wood imposed a $17,800 penalty, which is twice the minimum penalty for a willful violation. The decision reflects the need to ensure a more appropriate deterrent effect where employers insist on disregarding public health measures.

Such willful behavior puts employees at risk and enables the employer to achieve a competitive advantage over businesses that choose to comply with workplace health and safety standards.

“Most employers are choosing to do the right thing,” Wood said, “even as they face very real economic hardships. As for those relatively few employers who are working against our shared project to defeat this disease, we will continue our enforcement work in the interest of accountability.”

Oregon OSHA cited one violation of the division’s temporary rule to address COVID-19 risks in the workplace:

• In allowing indoor dining, The New Blue Hen purposely chose to disregard capacity limitations imposed by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) for such establishments in a county designated as Extreme Risk. It was a willful violation. Oregon OSHA proposed a discretionary penalty of $17,800.

Because of safety concerns, two compliance officers were assigned to open the inspection. When they arrived at the restaurant Jan. 4, they were met by several people standing outside the entrance of the business, one of whom carried a firearm.

The compliance officers identified themselves and asked to speak with the business owner. They were threatened and told to leave. The officers politely left. As the officers walked to their cars, the people outside the entrance followed them. The people shouted at the officers as the officers left the parking lot.

The inspection of The New Blue Hen – doing business as Little Brown Hen – found the employer committing the violation beginning on or about Dec. 26, 2020, and continuing to do so afterward. The inspection included visual confirmation of indoor dining and a Jan. 5 phone interview with owner Stacey Brown, who said she understood the public health rules regarding the spread of the disease in Lane County.

Employers have 30 days to appeal citations.

In addition to its enforcement activities, Oregon OSHA offers employers and workers a variety of consultation, information, and education resources addressing COVID-19.

###

Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, visit osha.oregon.gov.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, go to www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 3. In compliance with Gov. Kate Brown’s directive on social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19, this will be a virtual public meeting.

The meeting will include a joint session with the Environmental Quality Commission in the morning, and Board business will be conducted in the afternoon beginning at 1 p.m. The joint session agenda includes:

• Agency Directors, Board and Commission Chairs Comments
• Smoke Management Rule Implementation 
• ODF-DEQ Collaboration Quarterly Update

The Board business agenda includes:

• Santiam State Forest Restoration and Recovery
• Oregon Global Warming Commission – Natural and Working Lands Goal Update
• State Forests Closure Rulemaking     
• Forest Practices Interagency Meeting Report           
• Department Financial Report - January and February 2021 
• Approval of Agency Director Financial Transactions, Fiscal Year 2020

View the agenda for additional topics to be discussed at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/board/pages/bofmeetings.aspx.

The meeting will be livestreamed and written public comment will be accepted. There is no live testimony. Written testimony can be submitted before or after the meeting to oardofForestry@oregon.gov">BoardofForestry@oregon.gov. The board packet and livestream option are available at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/board/pages/bofmeetings.aspx.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200.

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30 million-acre forestland base. More information about the Board is available at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/board/pages/aboutbof.aspx.

The Oregon Environmental Quality Commission is a five-member panel appointed by the governor of Oregon for four-year terms to serve as the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality's policy and rulemaking board. In addition to adopting rules, the commission also establishes policies, issues orders, judges appeals of fines or other DEQ actions and appoints the DEQ director. For more information about the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission, please visit the EQC homepage at https://www.oregon.gov/deq/about-us/eqc/Pages/default.aspx

Salem, OR—The Department of Revenue reminds business owners that businesses with commercial activity in excess of $1 million in 2020 must file a CAT return by April 15.

Businesses with more than $1 million in taxable commercial activity will have Corporate Activity Tax to pay. The tax is $250 plus 0.57% of commercial activity greater than $1 million after subtractions.

Revenue has honored good-faith efforts to comply with the CAT by businesses negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Penalties will not be assessed for underestimated quarterly payments or for not making a quarterly payment for the Corporate Activity Tax, if businesses did not have the financial ability to make the estimated payment.

However, payment of 2020 CAT liability is due in full April 15. Businesses can, with good cause, seek an extension to file. An extension to file is not an extension to pay tax owed.

One-time registration
The Department of Revenue reminds business owners that once they have more than $750,000 in commercial activity in 2021, they have 30 days to register for the Corporate Activity Tax unless they have already registered.

Registration for CAT is a one-time requirement, however, and businesses that registered in 2020 do not have to register again.

CAT registrations topped more than 20,000 in its first year. That number continues to grow as new businesses begin to reach the $750,000 threshhold in 2021. Through Tuesday, 21,149 businesses had registered for the CAT, which was created by the Oregon Legislature in 2019 to raise funding for education.

2021 quarterly payments
Taxpayers expecting to owe $5,000 or more in Corporate Activity Tax for tax year 2021 must make estimated quarterly payments. Estimated payments for 2021 are due April 30, August 2, November 1, and January 31, 2022. Returns are due April 15.

Training aids to assist with registration, calculating the tax, and making payments can be found on the CAT page of the agency’s website.

Taxpayers with general questions about the CAT can email cat.help.dor@oregon.gov or call 503-945-8005.

To get tax forms, check the status of your refund, or make tax payments, visit www.oregon.gov/dor or email questions.dor@oregon.gov. You also can call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing- or speech-impaired), we accept all relay calls.

Pampas grass, often used in landscaping, threatens properties and fragile coastal ecosystems

COOS COUNTY, Ore. – South Slough National Estuarine and Research Reserve is asking coastal residents to survey their properties and remove pampas grass, following an extensive initiative that recently removed more than 5,000 of the plants from the Reserve.

Pampas grass is the common name for two invasive plant species found throughout Coos Bay and other parts of the Southern Oregon Coast: Cortaderia jubata and C. selloana. The two species look similar, with tall stalks that can reach 6 - 23 feet in height, and large flower plumes that spread out at the end of the stalks. The plumes vary in color from deep purple, to pink or light brown.

Coastal ecosystems, as well as residential and commercial properties, are impacted by the presence of pampas grass. The plants crowd out native plants and compete with seedling trees in forested areas, hindering their ability to grow. The long stalks and flowers of pampas grass make it a fire hazard for forested areas and homes. It can also block vehicle access to roads that are crucial during emergencies, like wildfires. Finally, pampas grass can attract and harbor rats.

This January, South Slough Reserve coordinated with Coos Forest Protective Association to remove 140 cubic yards of pampas grass from the Reserve—over 5,000 plants. This removal targeted C. jubata, a species that can easily spread when its seeds are dispersed for miles by the wind. The pampas grass was growing in three patches around the Reserve. To remove the plants, workers used chainsaws to cut the leaves at their base and then dug the roots out with shovels.

“It took us a little over ten days, about 650 person hours, to completely eliminate pampas grass within the Reserve,” said Dr. Alice Yeates, Stewardship Coordinator for South Slough Reserve. “However, there is always a chance it could reestablish.”

Both species of pampas grass are often used in landscaping, which contributes to its spread and effects on fragile coastal ecosystems. Coastal residents can reduce the spread of pampas grass and its impact by removing the plants from their properties. The best time to remove pampas grass is during the spring, when soil is moist and it is easier to pull out the plant’s roots.

South Slough Reserve relies on its volunteers to identify and report pampas grass and other invasive species at the Reserve. Anyone interested in helping out can submit a volunteer application.

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The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (South Slough Reserve) manages nearly 7,000 acres of natural areas along the Coos Estuary on the south coast of Oregon. The Reserve was designated in 1974 as the first unit of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) and is affiliated with the Oregon Department of State Lands and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Reserve supports and coordinates research, education and stewardship programs that serve to enhance a scientific and public understanding of estuaries and contribute to improved estuarine management.

WHO:              David Gerstenfeld, Acting Director, Oregon Employment Department

WHEN:            Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2021, at 2 p.m. PT

WHAT:            Oregon Employment Department Acting Director David Gerstenfeld will hold a video conference media briefing to share updates on the federal Continued Assistance Act (CAA) that extends and provides additional federal unemployment benefits, economic and workforce-related trends and more on Wednesday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. PT.

WHERE:         Via Zoom video conference: Members of the media must RSVP for call information by emailing OED_Communications@oregon.gov by 12 p.m. PT on Wednesday, Feb. 24. Video conference information will be provided to all reporters who RSVP.

OTHER:          The Oregon Employment Department is updating a claims processing progress data dashboard daily. Visit this link for weekday updates. A recording of the video conference will be emailed to reporters attending the briefing after the briefing concludes.

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Equal Opportunity program — auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Contact: (503) 947-1794. For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, call 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.

Feb. 27, 2021

Media Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon reports 455 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 2 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are two new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,208 the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 455 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today bringing the state total to 155,315.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 32,288 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 24,926 doses were administered on Feb. 26 and 7,362 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Feb. 26.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 943,692 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,194,495 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 148, which is four fewer than yesterday. There are 31 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is three fewer than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (6), Benton (7), Clackamas (35), Columbia (13), Coos (42), Curry (2), Deschutes (14), Douglas (16), Hood River (4), Jackson (67), Jefferson (4), Josephine (9), Klamath (5), Lake (1), Lane (29), Lincoln (2), Linn (9), Malheur (7), Marion (43), Morrow (1), Multnomah (32), Polk (12), Umatilla (12), Union (3), Wasco (1), Washington (73), Yamhill (6).

Oregon’s 2,207th COVID-19 death is a 92-year-old man in Jackson County who tested positive on Feb. 22 and died on Feb. 25 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,208th COVID-19 death is a 61-year-old man in Josephine County who tested positive on Jan. 13 and died on Feb. 15 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

1This includes cases confirmed by diagnostic testing and presumptive cases. Presumptive cases are those without a positive diagnostic test who present COVID-19-like symptoms and had close contact with a confirmed case. County of residence for cases may change as new information becomes available. If changes occur, we will update our counts accordingly.

2For additional details on individuals who have died from COVID-19 in Oregon, please refer to our press releases.

Electronic Laboratory Reporting (ELR) received Feb. 26, 2021

Cumulative Electronic Laboratory Reporting

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage, which has a breakdown of distribution and other useful information.

Feb. 26, 2021

Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon reports 336 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 2 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are two new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,206, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 336 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 154,878.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 30,594 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 22,353 doses were administered on Feb. 25 and 8,241 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Feb. 25.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 911,648 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,177,945 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 152, which is four fewer than yesterday. There are 34 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is four fewer than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (2), Benton (7), Clackamas (20), Columbia (5), Coos (15), Curry (8), Deschutes (17), Douglas (19), Harney (1), Hood River (1), Jackson (16), Jefferson (1), Josephine (14), Klamath (9), Lane (28), Linn (12), Malheur (2), Marion (38), Morrow (2), Multnomah (47), Polk (10), Tillamook (2), Umatilla (8), Union (6), Washington (38) and Yamhill (8).

Note: Due to a server error, a large volume of electronic laboratory reports (ELRs) were not processed until after business hours yesterday. Today’s test counts include all ELRs received yesterday. Case counts are lower than anticipated because local health departments were not able to create cases from positive ELRs that were received after hours.

Oregon’s 2,205th COVID-19 death is a 73-year-old man in Douglas County who tested positive on Feb. 10 and died on Feb. 24 at Mercy Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,206th COVID-19 death is a 55-year-old man in Umatilla County who tested positive on Jan. 28 and died on Feb. 23 at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

In today’s news conference, OHA mistakenly reported the current percentage of Oregon seniors vaccinated was one in three. That is an error. The correct percentage is one in four, or 25%. OHA regrets this miscalculation.

Today, OHA also provided updates on Oregon’s vaccination program and vaccination eligibility:

• Vaccine eligibility will open to people 65 and older on March 1. We expect to have been allocated enough vaccines to immunize at least 75% of all seniors by March 29, weeks ahead of our original timelines.
• The first members of the general public will be eligible for the COVID vaccine no later than June 1 and remaining groups of the general public on July 1.

A revised sequencing infographic highlights the updates (attached).

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage, which has a breakdown of distribution and other useful information.

Feb. 25, 2021

Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon reports 553 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 10 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 10 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,204, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 553 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 154,554.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 22,841 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 15,684 doses were administered on Feb. 24 and 7,157 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Feb. 24.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 881,206 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,170,595 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 156, which is six fewer than yesterday. There are 38 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is eight fewer than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (2), Benton (12), Clackamas (46), Columbia (4), Coos (26), Crook (2), Curry (5), Deschutes (10), Douglas (27), Harney (1), Hood River (2), Jackson (75), Jefferson (9), Josephine (13), Klamath (6), Lane (51), Lincoln (3), Linn (16), Malheur (4), Marion (58), Morrow (3), Multnomah (66), Polk (12), Tillamook (3), Umatilla (17), Union (4), Wasco (1), Washington (61) and Yamhill (14).

Oregon’s 2,195th COVID-19 death is a 96-year-old woman in Deschutes County who tested positive on Feb. 8 and died on Feb. 18 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,196th COVID-19 death is a 71-year-old woman in Douglas County who tested positive on Feb. 8 and died on Feb. 23 at her residence. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,197th COVID-19 death is a 94-year-old man in Jackson County who tested positive on Dec. 29 and died on Feb. 13 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,198th COVID-19 death is a 63-year-old woman in Jefferson County who tested positive on Dec. 18 and died on Feb. 5 at St. Charles Bend Hospital. She had no underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,199th COVID-19 death is a 71-year-old man in Klamath County who tested positive on Feb. 7 and died on Feb. 23 at Sky Lakes Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,200th COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old man in Lane County who tested positive on Dec. 1 and died on Dec. 13 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,201st COVID-19 death is an 87-year-old man in Lane County who tested positive on Feb. 16 and died on Feb. 23 at McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,202nd COVID-19 death is an 88-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on Dec. 19 and died on Feb. 23 at his residence. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,203rd COVID-19 death is a 68-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Dec. 7 and died on Dec. 5 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,204th COVID-19 death is a 59-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 5 and died on Feb. 15 at Adventist Health Portland. She had underlying conditions.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage, which has a breakdown of distribution, a new infographic featuring the differences between OHA’s vaccine tools and other useful information.

Feb. 24, 2021

Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon reports 437 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 32 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are 32 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,194, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 437 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 154,062.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 22,406 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 14,502 doses were administered on Feb. 23 and 7,904 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Feb. 23.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 858,481 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,133,695 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 162, which is three fewer than yesterday. There are 46 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is two more than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here

OHA publishes new web tool listing vaccine providers

OHA has added a new dashboard tool showing sites verified by the Oregon Immunization Program to receive and administer COVID-19 vaccines.

Being displayed on this dashboard does not mean sites have received COVID-19 vaccine doses, are administering COVID-19 vaccines onsite or have COVID-19 vaccines in their inventory. The new dashboard tool shows progress in enrolling potential COVID-19 vaccine providers across the state.

The tool is not meant to be used for scheduling. Go to the COVID-19 vaccine webpage to learn more about vaccinations, to sign up for eligibility notifications and to find vaccination providers in your county.

Weekly COVID-19 data and outbreak reports

The Oregon Health Authority’s COVID-19 Weekly Report, released today, shows sharp decreases in daily cases, hospitalizations and deaths from the previous week.

OHA reported 2,260 new daily cases of COVID-19 during the week of Monday, Feb. 15 through Sunday, Feb. 21 — a 35% decrease from last week.

New COVID-19 related hospitalizations fell 42%, dropping from 272 to 159.

COVID-19 related deaths also decreased from 114 to 17, which represents the lowest weekly death toll since the week of June 29–July 5.

There were 70,200 tests for COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 14 through Feb. 20, which represents a steep decline from the previous week. The percentage of positive tests was 3.5%.

People age 70 and older have accounted for 77% of deaths associated with the virus.

Today’s COVID-19 Weekly Outbreak Report shows 74 active COVID-19 outbreaks in senior living communities and congregate living settings, with three or more confirmed cases and one or more COVID-19 related deaths.

Cases and deaths

Details on today’s reported deaths will be published later.

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (6), Benton (22), Clackamas (38), Clatsop (6), Columbia (10), Coos (16), Crook (8), Curry (1), Deschutes (28), Douglas (28), Jackson (27), Jefferson (7), Josephine (20), Klamath (4), Lane (33), Lincoln (2), Linn (6), Malheur (3), Marion (33), Morrow (5), Multnomah (55), Polk (11), Sherman (1), Tillamook (3), Umatilla (15), Union (1), Wasco (1), Washington (41) and Yamhill (6).

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage, which has a breakdown of distribution, a new infographic featuring the differences between OHA’s vaccine tools and other useful information.

Feb. 24, 2021

Contacts: Philip Schmidt, 503-383-6079,  philip.schmidt@dhsoha.state.or.us  (media inquiries)

Tara Chetock, 971-304-9917, a.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us">tara.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Oregon Health Policy Board meets March 2 via Zoom

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Health Policy Board.

When: March 2, 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Where: Virtual meeting only. The public can join remotely via Zoom or a conference line. To join via Zoom: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1602657497?pwd=emhzUnJsK1EzWk5rV0VpYTdjU3VrQT09

To call in to the meeting on a mobile device, use the following number:

+16692545252,,1602657497#,,,,,,0#,,306554#

Agenda:

1. Welcome, OHPB Roll Call and Minutes Approval
2. Director’s Update
3. Legislative Update
4. Retreat Follow-up
5. Cost Growth Target: 2021 Workplan
6. Public Comment
7. Committee Membership
8. Oregon’s Hospital Community Benefit Program

For more information and meeting materials, please visit the OHPB meeting webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/OHPB/Pages/index.aspx

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• CART (live captions)
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Tara Chetock at 971-304-9917, 711 TTY, a.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us">tara.a.chetock@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Feb. 24, 2021

Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon Health Authority Issues Joint Statement with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation on COVID-19 Data

The Oregon Health Authority reports that the addition of approximately 1,400 COVID-19 laboratory reports from Umatilla County on Saturday, Feb. 20 will not affect the county’s risk level status. The past cases covering a seven-month period had been investigated and had previously not been electronically recorded by the agency.

OHA has been receiving weekly data from Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center. In the fall of 2020, after the state agency moved away from manual data entry toward the electronic file submission an error occurred, which did not include tabulating the 1,400 records from Yellowhawk in its state COVID-19 case count. OHA regrets the error and has since been working closely with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation to prevent these errors from happening again.

“The accurate collection and accounting of all COVID-19 case data informs OHA’s ongoing response to COVID-19, and we are committed to informing the public when we identify any oversight,” said Dr. Dean Sidelinger, state public health officer and epidemiologist. “When we identified the issue, we worked to correct our methods of capturing case data, and we want to thank the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation for the work they are doing to provide their case and investigation data to us.”

As an entity of a sovereign nation, the Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center is not required to report COVID-19 test results to OHA but chose to report their data weekly since the beginning of the pandemic.

“We decided to be transparent with our data because we realize this will be an important part to fighting the virus and protect not only residents of the Umatilla Indian Reservation but our community, county and state,” said Lisa Guzman, chief executive officer for the Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center.

As OHA reported, these test results date from June 2020 through January 2021. The cases were appropriately investigated and interviewed at the time of their positive test. The test results had been shared electronically with OHA during that time by the Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center’s laboratory but were not captured by OHA due to data processing issues.

The county’s reopening metrics are not being changed or impacted because of the addition of the new case data. County Risk Levels are updated every two weeks in response to how COVID-19 is spreading in communities, at the county level.

Currently, Umatilla County is listed at an extreme risk level based on having 446 cases per 100,000 residents. The county will be in high risk level starting Feb. 26, as countywide case rates dropped to 191 cases per 100,000 from Feb. 7 to Feb. 20. Risk Levels take effect on Friday and remain in effect for the next two weeks while this process repeats.

OHA acknowledges the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s ongoing efforts to boost community immunity among its members, employees, employee family members and non-Indian residents who live on the reservation. Today is the second day of a mass vaccination event being held with the help of the Oregon National Guard. The tribe received 975 doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine from the Indian Health Service for the event.

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation are members of the Oregon Emergency Response System, which coordinates state resources in its response to emergencies involving multi-jurisdictional cooperation.

Feb. 23, 2021

Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon reports 528 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 8 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are eight new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 2,162, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 528 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 153,645.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 14,917 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 9,235 doses were administered on Feb. 22 and 5,682 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Feb. 22.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 836,075 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 1,092,385 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 165, which is two fewer than yesterday. There are 44 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is three fewer than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (5), Benton (17), Clackamas (47), Clatsop (4), Columbia (12), Coos (11), Crook (6), Curry (3), Deschutes (34), Douglas (29), Grant (1), Harney (4), Hood River (2), Jackson (46), Jefferson (9), Josephine (17), Klamath (11), Lane (40), Lincoln (3), Linn (8), Malheur (5), Marion (37), Morrow (4), Multnomah (55), Polk (12), Tillamook (2), Umatilla (20), Union (5), Washington (64) and Yamhill (15).

Note: Oregon’s 1,450th and 1,509th COVID-19 deaths, reported on Dec. 30, 2020 and Jan. 5, 2021, are the same person. Because of this error, we are renumbering our reported deaths starting with 2,155 today.

Oregon’s 2,155th COVID-19 death is a 92-year-old man in Clackamas County who tested positive on Nov. 11 and died on Dec. 21 at Providence Portland Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,156th COVID-19 death is a 74-year-old man in Josephine County who tested positive on Feb. 18 and died on Feb. 21 at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,157th COVID-19 death is a 47-year-old man in Lane County who tested positive on Jan. 22 and died on Feb. 19 at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,158th COVID-19 death is a 76-year-old man in Lincoln County who tested positive on Feb. 6 and died on Feb. 22 at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed.

Oregon’s 2,159th COVID-19 death is a 77-year-old man in Marion County who tested positive on Jan. 28 and died on Feb. 20 at Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center. He had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,160th COVID-19 death is a 93-year-old woman in Marion County who tested positive on Feb. 16 and died on Feb. 18 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,161st COVID-19 death is an 82-year-old woman in Multnomah County who tested positive on Feb. 16 and died on Feb. 22 at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. She had underlying conditions.

Oregon’s 2,162nd COVID-19 death is a 63-year-old woman in Umatilla County who tested positive on Dec. 17 and died on Jan. 2 at her residence. She had underlying conditions.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage, which has a breakdown of distribution, a new infographic featuring the differences between OHA’s vaccine tools and other useful information.

Feb. 23, 2021

Media contact: Aria Seligmann, 503-535-9134, i.l.seligmann@dhsoha.state.or.us">ari.l.seligmann@dhsoha.state.or.us

Program contact: Hilary Harrison, 503-209-1949, y.harrison@dhsoha.state.or.us">hilary.harrison@dhsoha.state.or.us  

System of Care Advisory Council meets remotely March 2, 2021

What: A regular public meeting of the System of Care Advisory Council

When: Tuesday March 2, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: By webinar at https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/706039269 or by teleconference at (872) 240-3212, access code 706-039-269. Please note only council members may speak until the public comment time.

Agenda: The full agenda can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/BH-Child-Family/Pages/SOCAC.aspx. The meeting will include time for public comment.

Details: Senate Bill 1 (2019) established a Governor-appointed System of Care Advisory Council to improve the efficacy and effectiveness of the state and local continuum of care that provides services to youth and young adults. The council's immediate work is to develop and maintain a state System of Care and a comprehensive long-range plan for a coordinated state system.

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Hilary Harrison at 503-209-1949, 711 TTY, or y.harrison@dhsoha.state.or.us">hilary.harrison@dhsoha.state.or.us at least two business days before the meeting.

Feb. 23, 2021

Contact: Philip Schmidt, 503-383-6079, Philip.schmidt@dhsoha.state.or.us , (media inquiries)

Sarah Bartelmann, 971-283-8107, ah.e.bartelmann@dhsoha.state.or.us">sarah.e.bartelmann@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)

Health Care Cost Growth Target Technical Advisory Group (TAG) meetings Feb. 24th

What: The Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Technical Advisory Group (TAG) is holding its first meeting.

To achieve the goals of the Health Care Cost Growth Target Program, data submitters, stakeholders and the public must have confidence that the data collected and reported by the program are valid and reliable. The purpose of the Health Care Cost Growth Target TAG is to ensure that the processes involved in developing data submission specifications and health care cost growth measurement are appropriate and transparent.

The TAG is not a decision-making body: it is an advisory body providing a venue for discussion, brainstorming and solution finding.

When: February 24, 2021. 10:00 AM - noon  

Where: Virtual meeting only. The public can join remotely via Zoom or conference line.

To join by Zoom: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1615311783?pwd=TWVOek83M012V0xCTVN4QkdPalBwQT09 One tap mobile +16692545252,,1615311783#,,,,053372# US (San Jose)

Agenda: Welcome and Introductions. Overview of the Health Care Cost Growth Target Program and Implementation Committee recommendations. Review TAG charter and workplan. Introduce intent, timeline, and process for developing data submission template and specifications, and temporary rules. Wrap up.

There will not be a public comment period held during this meeting. Please submit any public comment at: e.CostTarget@dhsoha.state.or.us">HealthCare.CostTarget@dhsoha.state.or.us

For more information, please visit the TAG website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/HP/Pages/cost-growth-target-tag.aspx

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Sarah Bartelmann at 971-283-8107, 711 TTY, ah.e.bartelmann@dhsoha.state.or.us">sarah.e.bartelmann@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Feb. 22, 2021

Contact: OHA External Relations, covid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us" target="_blank">orcovid19.media@dhsoha.state.or.us

Oregon reports 324 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, 0 new deaths

PORTLAND, Ore. — There are no new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, keeping the state’s death toll at 2,155, the Oregon Health Authority reported at 12:01 a.m. today.

Oregon Health Authority reported 324 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 as of 12:01 a.m. today, bringing the state total to 153,134.

Vaccinations in Oregon

Today, OHA reported that 18,907 new doses of COVID-19 vaccinations were added to the state immunization registry. Of this total, 13,790 doses were administered on Feb. 21 and 5,117 were administered on previous days but were entered into the vaccine registry on Feb. 21.

Cumulative daily totals can take several days to finalize because providers have 72 hours to report doses administered and technical challenges have caused many providers to lag in their reporting. OHA has been providing technical support to vaccination sites to improve the timeliness of their data entry into the state’s ALERT Immunization Information System (IIS).

Oregon has now administered a cumulative total of 821,311 first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. To date, 924,575 doses of vaccine have been delivered to sites across Oregon.

These data are preliminary and subject to change. OHA's dashboards provide regularly updated vaccination data, and Oregon’s dashboard has been updated today.

COVID-19 hospitalizations

The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 167, which is one more than yesterday. There are 47 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is three more than yesterday.

The total number of patients in hospital beds may fluctuate between report times. The numbers do not reflect admissions per day, nor the length of hospital stay. Staffing limitations are not captured in this data and may further limit bed capacity.

More information about hospital capacity can be found here

Cases and deaths

The new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases reported today are in the following counties: Baker (5), Benton (8), Clackamas (25), Columbia (3), Coos (18), Curry (10), Deschutes (11), Douglas (14), Harney (2), Hood River (1), Jackson (43), Jefferson (4), Lane (12), Linn (2), Marion (26), Morrow (1), Multnomah (83), Polk (12), Tillamook (1), Union (1), Washington (32) and Yamhill (10).

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine situation in Oregon, visit our webpage, which has a breakdown of distribution, a new infographic featuring the differences between OHA’s vaccine tools and other useful information.

The next Housing Stability Council meeting will be on Friday, March 5th, 2021 from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM.  The meeting will be held electronically due to the current COVID-19 health crisis. Please register for access link.

Webinar Meeting Only

Public register in advance for this webinar:

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uowii8KdRFyNz5LTR9jucQ

AGENDA:

9:00  Meeting Called to Order - Roll Call 

9:05  Public Comment

9:25  Homeownership Division

• Oregon Bond Residential Loan Program Information for 2020

9:55  Affordable Rental Housing Division Updates 

• HUD Consolidated Plan

10:45 Break

10:55 Housing Stabilization Division Updates 

• Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)
• Statute Modernization

11:45  Report of the Director

• Update on OHCS’s Internal Equity and Racial Justice Work

12:15  Report of the Chair

12:30  Meeting Adjourned
 

(PLEASE NOTE: RESENDING WITH UPDATED/CORRECT INFO. PLEASE DISREGARD EARLIER VERSION)

For the 19th year, the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling dedicates March to help increase public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services.  This coincides with the National Problem Gambling Awareness Month whose campaign theme is “Awareness + Action.”

“Problem Gambling Awareness Month is always important to us, as we highlight a ‘hidden’ addiction that millions of Americans face, including one in every 38 Oregon adults,” said Executive Director of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling Julie Hynes.

“This year, we bring special attention to problem gambling, given the stress, isolation and financial uncertainty of so many Oregonians throughout the pandemic,” said Hynes. “Some can be tempted to seek hope through jackpots and escape from everyday problems via other gambling options. More widespread legalized online betting, day trading, and even video gaming apps have caused harm for more people this year. We want people to know that they’re not alone, and that there is effective, free and confidential help available for them as well as their loved ones.”

National Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a grassroots effort that brings together a wide range of stakeholders - public health organizations, advocacy groups and gambling operators – who work collaboratively to let people know that hope and help exist.

Outreach continues to be challenging because of the pandemic.  People are isolated at home and the need for online gambling resources and options for treatment are critical. Visits to the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource website (www.opgr.org) tend to increase during March as result of the focused marketing and social media outreach efforts.

“Creating awareness of problem gambling and available resources is a statewide commitment that is reflected in the official proclamation that Oregon Lottery and the Oregon Health Authority worked with the Governor’s office to develop,” added Lottery Senior Manager Product Market Stacy Shaw, who is also an officer on the National Council on Problem Gambling board of directors.

“It’s great that people are seeking information,” Shaw added, “and we hope that the conversation and action continues to grow this year. We’re proud to be in a state that has robust system of prevention through treatment services that are free to anyone concerned about gambling problems, and we want people to know that they don’t have to worry about seeking help.

“This year we are focusing on letting people know that in Oregon treatment is really free, a message that’s important to people struggling with gambling issues.”

Problem Gambling Services Manager Greta Coe, with Oregon Health Authority’s Health Systems Division, notes the COVID pandemic has made this “a very trying and isolating time for many people.” Because of this, she says, it was important for Oregon Problem Gambling Resource (OPGR) and other local community sources to ramp up their outreach activities and media presence to address the increase in gambling activity and addiction.

“We’ve expanded our efforts to build awareness that gambling is an activity that comes with risks,” said Coe, “and it’s crucial we provide both free education and judgment-free treatment for those who develop gambling problems, as well as resources for those impacted by a loved one’s gambling.

The Oregon Lottery’s commitment to problem gambling support is year-round. Since 1992, one percent of Oregon Lottery profits has funded problem gambling treatment and prevention efforts throughout Oregon. Since that time, over $111 million in Lottery funds has supported those services.

To get help for a gambling issue, anyone can call 1-877-MYLIMIT. Treatment is free, confidential and it works. For more information about problem gambling treatment resources or to chat with a specialist, go to Oregon Problem Gambling Resource at opgr.org. 

About the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling

The Oregon Council on Problem Gambling is the state affiliate to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Its purpose is to promote the health of Oregonians by supporting efforts to minimize gambling related harm. Board members include stakeholders from the gaming industry, the treatment and prevention field, the recovery community and state and county administrators.

###

For the 19th year, the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling dedicates March to help increase public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services.  This coincides with the National Problem Gambling Awareness Month whose campaign theme is “Awareness + Action.”

“Problem Gambling Awareness Month is always important to us, as we highlight a ‘hidden’ addiction that millions of Americans face, including one in every 38 Oregon adults,” said Executive Director of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling Julie Hynes.

“This year, we bring special attention to problem gambling, given the stress, isolation and financial uncertainty of so many Oregonians throughout the pandemic,” said Hynes. “Some can be tempted to seek hope through jackpots and escape from everyday problems via other gambling options. More widespread legalized online betting, day trading, and even video gaming apps have caused harm for more people this year. We want people to know that they’re not alone, and that there is effective, free and confidential help available for them as well as their loved ones.”

National Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a grassroots effort that brings together a wide range of stakeholders – public health organizations, advocacy groups and gambling operators – who work collaboratively to let people know that hope and help exist.

Outreach continues to be challenging because of the pandemic.  People are isolated at home and the need for online gambling resources and options for treatment are critical. Visits to the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource website (www.opgr.org) tend to increase during March as result of the focused marketing and social media outreach efforts.

“Creating awareness of problem gambling and available resources is a statewide commitment that is reflected in the official proclamation that Oregon Lottery and the Oregon Health Authority worked with the Governor’s office to develop,” added Lottery Senior Manager Product Market Stacy Shaw, who is also an officer on the National Council on Problem Gambling board of directors.

“It’s great that people are seeking information,” Shaw added, “and we hope that the conversation and action continues to grow this year. We’re proud to be in a state that has robust system of prevention through treatment services that are free to anyone concerned about gambling problems, and we want people to know that they don’t have to worry about seeking help.

“This year we are focusing on letting people know that in Oregon treatment is really free, a message that’s important to people struggling with gambling issues.”

Problem Gambling Services Manager Greta Coe, with Oregon Health Authority’s Health Systems Division, notes the COVID pandemic has made this “a very trying and isolating time for many people.” Because of this, she says, it was important for Oregon Problem Gambling Resource (OPGR) and other local community sources to ramp up their outreach activities and media presence to address the increase in gambling activity and addiction.

“We’ve expanded our efforts to build awareness that gambling is an activity that comes with risks,” said Coe, “and it’s crucial we provide both free education and judgment-free treatment for those who develop gambling problems, as well as resources for those impacted by a loved one’s gambling.”

The Oregon Lottery’s commitment to problem gambling support is year-round. Since 1992, one percent of Oregon Lottery profits has funded problem gambling treatment and prevention efforts. Since that time, over $100 million in Lottery funds has supported those services.

To get help for a gambling issue, anyone can call 1-877-MYLIMIT. Treatment is free, confidential and it works. For more information about problem gambling treatment resources or to chat with a specialist, go to Oregon Problem Gambling Resource at opgr.org. 

About the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling

The Oregon Council on Problem Gambling is the state affiliate to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Its purpose is to promote the health of Oregonians by supporting efforts to minimize gambling related harm. Board members include stakeholders from the gaming industry, the treatment and prevention field, the recovery community and state and county administrators.

###

Salem, OR – February 25, 2021 – Wildfires, floods, volcanoes and earthquakes: Oregon has its share of natural hazards. Each of these hazards presents unique challenges, but one of the biggest challenges for earthquake preparedness is unpredictability. Earthquakes strike without warning, causing widespread damage in a matter of seconds.

Fortunately, there is a preparedness tool, ShakeAlert® Earthquake Early Warning, coming to Oregon on March 11. ShakeAlert does not predict earthquakes. Rather, it uses a network of sensors to detect an earthquake that has just begun. Data from the sensors are used by ShakeAlert processing centers to calculate the estimated quake magnitude and intensity. Alert distribution providers (e.g. operators of purpose-built apps) create an alert which can be delivered to wireless devices – in a matter of seconds – potentially reaching device users before the shaking does. In the seconds between receiving an alert and feeling shaking, people can protect themselves by dropping, covering and holding on.

“One of the reasons earthquakes are unpredictable is due to a phenomenon called ‘stick-slip,’” explains Jenny Crayne, an educator with the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), which is supporting outreach and education related to ShakeAlert. The push and pull of plate tectonics puts pressure on rocks within the earth. But rather than glide smoothly along, the rock “sticks,” held fast by friction. Sooner or later, and without notice, pressure overcomes this friction and the rock “slips,” resulting in an earthquake.

By studying past earthquakes and by mapping and monitoring movement along plate boundaries and faults, seismologists can identify areas, like the Pacific Northwest, with a high earthquake hazard, explains Crayne. Seismologists can also look at recurrence interval (the average amount of time between quakes) to estimate the likelihood of an earthquake occurring in the future. But probabilities aren’t predictions; no one knows exactly where the next earthquake will occur, or when.

This is why ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning is such a valuable preparedness tool. By rapidly detecting earthquakes and deploying alerts, the System can offer live-saving seconds for individuals. ShakeAlert-powered alerts can also be used to trigger automated actions such as closing a gas valve or slowing a train. These actions can prevent cascading infrastructure failures in the aftermath of an earthquake.

ShakeAlert is an easy-to-use tool. Beginning March 11, 2021, mobile devices in Oregon will be able to receive ShakeAlert-powered alerts via Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), just like a severe weather or AMBER alert. All WEA alerts, regardless of type, behave the same. The device makes a distinctive notification sound and the alert pops up in a text window on the screen. Some devices with text-to-voice capability may read out the message text.

In the case of an earthquake alert, the WEA text will read: “Earthquake Detected! Drop, Cover, Hold On. Protect Yourself. -USGS ShakeAlert.” This message is available in Spanish for phones set to receive alerts in that language.

ShakeAlert-powered alerts can also be delivered through purpose-built apps; newer Android phones have ShakeAlert capacity built into the operating system, offering a third alert delivery route.

“ShakeAlert can offer critical seconds of advance warning before we feel the impacts of shaking from an earthquake,” says Oregon Office of Emergency Management Director Andrew Phelps. “These precious seconds allow people to take protective actions to increase their chances of being disaster survivors rather than disaster victims.”

                                                                                                # # #

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille or a format you prefer. Contact David Cardona, OEM Language Access Coordinator, at 971-719-1183 or email david.cardona@state.or.us. We accept all relay calls or you can dial 711.

The Oregon Office of Emergency Management has posted the Oregon Wildfire Recovery Update for Feb.24, 2021, to the Oregon Wildfire Resources page. See today's Wildfire Recovery update here. 

Photo Captions:

Talent, Ore. - February 11, 2021 - Crews gather at the Talent Mobile Home Park to test for asbestos. Once the area is deemed free of asbestos, teams will begin to remove ash and debris. This site will hold temporary FEMA housing. Photo by Oregon Department of Transportation. 
File: 50934991142_8f49f5a534

Talent, Ore. - February 11, 2021 - In partnerhsip with FEMA's Direct Housing Mission, Talent Mobile Estates is being prioritized for cleanup to provide temporary housing for community members in need. Photo by Oregon Department of Transportation.
File: 50934863931_4dd888af34

Updated information: In addition to Joseph H. Stewart park, Jackson County will also operate and maintain Prospect Wayside, Casey Recreation Area, and Tubb Springs Wayside.

Medford, OR—The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Jackson County Parks have agreed that the management of Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area will be transferred to Jackson County Parks April 1, 2021. The county will manage the day-use area, campground and Lost Lake Reservoir marina operations for the next two years, with an option to renew the agreement for an additional three years.

Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area joins 21 other developed parks currently managed by Jackson County, including more than 900 campsites. Joseph Stewart park is located on Oregon Highway 62 near Prospect and is approximately 35 miles northeast of Medford and 30 miles southwest of Crater Lake National Park. Jackson County will also operate  Prospect Wayside, Casey Recreation Area, and Tubb Springs Wayside. State park staff will focus their energy to provide service at Valley of the Rogue State Park, TouVelle State Recreation Site, and other state parks in the area.

“The Jackson County Parks team is excited for this new opportunity to connect with our guests at a new location and serve the needs of new park users,” says Steve Lambert, Jackson County Parks program manager. “We expect Joseph Stewart park to be extremely busy this season and we will be ready to provide a high-quality experience.”

In addition to day-use, the campground has 151 sites with electricity and water and 50 tent sites with water only, as well as two group camping areas. A boat ramp and moorage are available to day-use and overnight visitors. Jackson County expects to begin accepting camping, boat slips and boat rental reservations on March 15. More information about the park, including reservation availability, is available at www.jacksoncountyparks.com, or call (541) 774-8183.

“We welcome this new partnership with the county, especially since we know they are as passionate about helping people enjoy the outdoors as we are,” says J.R. Collier, OPRD region manager. “We’ll be working together to see if this improves efficiency and improves service to park visitors.”

PORT ORFORD, Ore. — The campground at Cape Blanco State Park will reopen March 2 after being closed for nearly a year due to COVID-19, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) announces. Visitors will be able to reserve sites up to six months in advance starting at 6 a.m. March 1 for all stays March 2 and after.

Cape Blanco has long been a first-come, first-serve campground, meaning sites could not be reserved, due to lack of high-speed connectivity. This created inefficiencies and inconsistencies to the process of administering campground stays, said Coastal Region Manager Dennis Comfort.

“Adding the park to the reservation system has been a long-term goal for OPRD,” Comfort said.  “It brings consistency to agency processes and to the visitor experience. Now anyone can enjoy this beautiful campground, with the peace of mind that you’ll arrive and a campsite will be available.”

Two additional first-come, first-served coastal campgrounds that have been closed since the beginning of the pandemic — Alfred A. Loeb State Park in Brookings and Carl G. Washburne Memorial State Park in Florence — will reopen and be on the reservation system later this spring.

Cape Blanco reservations can be made from one day to six months in advance starting at 6 a.m. March 1 through OPRD’s partner site, oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or by calling 800-452-5687. Group sites will remain closed to reduce exposure in accordance with Gov. Kate Brown’s Coronavirus guidance.

Located at the state’s westernmost tip overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Cape Blanco has 52 spacious, private campsites with electrical and water hookups, as well as four rustic cabins and eight horse sites with corrals. The park includes hiking trails, horse trails, an open riding area and the Cape Blanco Lighthouse, which is closed to tours due to COVID-19. More information about the park is on the Oregon State Parks official website at stateparks.oregon.gov.

To learn more about safe recreation in parks during the pandemic, visit our COVID-19 FAQ page

OREGON UTILITY REGULATORS EXTEND CUSTOMER PROTECTIONS
COVID-19 late fee and disconnection moratorium extended through June 30
 

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) approved an extended moratorium on disconnections for electric and natural gas customers of investor-owned utilities as Oregonians continue to experience financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The moratorium, previously set to expire on April 1, was extended to June 30.

 The PUC extended the moratorium to waive late fees and discontinue energy service disconnections due to nonpayment for customers of Portland General Electric (PGE), PacifiCorp, Idaho Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural, and Avista, through June 30, with the first 15-day late notice to be issued no earlier than June 15.  

As of December 2020, the number of electric and natural gas customers with past-due balances of investor-owned utilities had increased to just over 97,000 customers who are 90-plus days behind in paying their energy bills. This is a 272 percent increase when compared to data prior to the pandemic. Additionally, the total amount of past due balances for residential customers has increased to $48.3 million, a 631 percent increase.

“As the economic impacts of the pandemic continue, the extension of the moratorium provides families continued access to essential utility services at a time that so many are struggling to make ends meet and relying on these essential services to attend school and work,” said Megan Decker, PUC Chair. “This extension, however, does not mean that utility service can be provided at no cost. Paying what you can now or getting connected with energy assistance programs will help avoid large balances once the moratorium ends.”

To further benefit Oregonians, the PUC directed investor-owned electric and natural gas companies to file arrearage management program plans for approval. PGE’s program has been filed and approved by the PUC, while the plans for the remaining investor-owned utilities will be reviewed at a special public meeting scheduled for March 23. These programs, which would go into effect April 1, offer additional options for energy customers experiencing difficulty in paying their utility bills. Funding for these programs is limited to one percent of each utility’s 2019 Oregon retail revenues, or approximately $39 million overall.

Customers having difficulty paying their utility bills should contact their service provider directly for information on arrearage management programs, payment plan options, and programs specific for qualifying low-income customers. For additional information, contact the PUC at puc.consumer@state.or.us or call 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404.

The PUC will hold a follow-up public meeting in mid-May to further review the impacts of the pandemic on energy customers.

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The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric, natural gas and telephone utilities, as well as select water companies. The PUC mission is to ensure Oregon utility customers have access to safe, reliable, and high quality utility services at just and reasonable rates, which is accomplished through thorough analysis and independent decision-making conducted in an open and fair process.

Our local COVID-19 updates represent the coordinated effort of the agencies that make up the DCCRT

JOINT INFORMATION CENTER PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 27, 2021

DOUGLAS COUNTY COVID-19 RESPONSE TEAM - DAILY UPDATE

(Douglas County, Ore.)  Douglas County COVID-19 Test Results:  As of 12:00 pm Today, Saturday, February 27, 2021, there are TWELVE (12) people with new positive test result to report since our noon case update yesterday.  The total number of cases (people with positive test results and presumptives) in Douglas County is now at 2,469.  Currently, there are FIFTEEN (15) Douglas County COVID-19 patients that are being hospitalized, eleven locally and four out-of-the-area. Our Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, under the direction of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, continue to devote all resources available to our local COVID response.

Local Contacts and Cases Being Supported in Isolation and Quarantine

Currently, DPHN is supporting 245 cases in isolation, as well as another 541 contacts in quarantine in Douglas County. Isolation is recommended for confirmed and presumptive cases, quarantine is recommended for contacts of confirmed or presumptive cases.  Currently, staff is supporting an astounding 786 total contacts and cases in isolation or quarantine.  This number represents a snapshot of the significant amount of work being done locally to help control the spread of COVID.

Our daily update includes the total number of cases in Douglas County, which combines people with positive test results and presumptives, as well as a breakout of those case numbers. There will be times when a presumptive will move to a positive test result, and our total case number will not change because the case has already been counted. On Thursday, February 11, 2021, we removed the vaccination distribution row from our daily COVID chart, and instead we will be providing a vaccine tally once a week on Fridays for the vaccines received by our local public health, and then deployed to local vaccinators. Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government.

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

According to the State of Oregon/OHA’s vaccination eligibility plan, as of today, Saturday, February 27, 2021, residents in the following categories are eligible to make an appointment for the COVID-19 Vaccine:

• Phase 1-A, Groups 1-4: All health care facilities, providers and workers; first responders; EMS, skilled, long term and memory care facilities; correctional facility workers; tribal health programs; VA workers and qualifying Veterans; caregivers of medically fragile individuals who live at home; age-eligible individuals with a medical condition or disability who receive services in their homes.
• Phase 1-B, Group 1: Child care providers, early learning and K-12 educators and staff. 
• Phase 1-B, Group 2: Residents 80-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 3: Residents 75-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 4: Residents 70-years-of-age or older

Now Eligible: Phase 1-B, Group 4: Seniors 70 And Older

According to the State, as of Monday, February 22, 2021, the next group of seniors, residents who are aged 70-years-old and older (Phase 1-B, Group 4), are now eligible to call and schedule an appointment with their local health care provider or local pharmacies who are signed up to be vaccinators in Douglas County.  As a reminder, we ask that you please be patient and gracious with the staff at DPHN, our vaccinators and health care partners, as they are doing the best they can to schedule appointments based on the supply of COVID-19 vaccine that has been sent to Douglas County.

I am Eligible, How Do I Sign Up to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Our local public health continue to follow the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) eligibility guidelines, and are ONLY scheduling appointments for residents that are listed on OHA’s list of currently eligible groups at this time.  Douglas County, DPHN or your Doctor’s Office did not set the guidelines for who is eligible to get the vaccine.  For more information, on how the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) set up their COVID vaccine guidelines, please contact them directly.  As a reminder, eligibility dates and vaccine availability are always subject to change, and eligibility does not mean availability.  Please, if you are not in an eligible vaccine group right now, we ask that you continue to be patient, and wait to call, email or try to set up an appointment until after your age or eligibility group becomes eligible.     

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-A, GROUPS 1-4

For those residents who are included in Phase 1-A, but have not received the COVID vaccine, please send an e-mail to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org and DPHN will connect you with a local vaccine provider. Please only send a request to get a vaccine to this email if you are Phase 1-A eligible. 

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 1

For those residents in Phase 1-B, Group 1: educators, childcare and early education workers, who were eligible as of January 25, 2021, you should have already received two emails about your eligibility from DPHN or Douglas ESD.  If you are in that group and still want a vaccine, please send an email to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org">educatorvaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org.  If you did not receive an e-mail, please contact your employer.

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 2, 3 & 4: SENIORS 70 AND OLDER

As of Monday, February 22, 2021, residents 70-years-of-age and older became eligible to schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Eligible seniors are asked to call and set up an appointment with their health care provider or local pharmacy listed on our vaccinators list.  We updated our Douglas County Senior Population COVID Vaccination Plan, complete with a list of local health care agencies that have signed up vaccinate residents on Thursday, February 25, 2021.  We originally released our plan on February 5, 2021. Click here to read the updated Douglas County Senior Population Vaccination Plan and our current list of local vaccinators.  Our plan for Senior COVID-19 Vaccinations in Douglas County is to have eligible seniors get their COVID vaccine where they get their regular health care or flu vaccine.  As a reminder, because the COVID vaccines have very specific handling constraints, all providers offering to vaccinate eligible residents will be administering vaccines with a scheduled appointment only.  Doctor’s offices, medical facilities, Urgent Care Clinics and Pharmacy’s will not and cannot do walk-in appointments. 

We ask that eligible seniors contact their health care provider FIRST, to see if they are administering the COVID vaccine.  If not, we encourage you to ask them to get signed up to be a vaccinator.  Also, if they are not vaccinating, ask them for a referral to another health care provider, clinic or pharmacy, that is administering the vaccine.  If they do not provide referrals, then please contact your regular pharmacy or a pharmacy listed on our vaccinators list and ask them about scheduling an appointment.  Please also note that many of our health care providers listed below on our vaccinators list are currently working through their eligible patient lists first.  So, they may not be scheduling appointments for new, referral or outside patients at this time.  Please note that there are still many more residents and seniors who need and want vaccine than there are available doses.  Vaccine supply is beyond our control, but we continue to submit requests and strive to get as much vaccine sent to Douglas County as possible.  Even though a medical facility or office is listed as a vaccinator, does not guarantee they will have vaccine; they are organizations that have signed up to help vaccinate.  We ask for your patience as we work with the State and OHA to acquire more vaccines.

LOCAL TRIBAL HEALTH VACCINE PROGRAMS

If you are a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians, please contact them for information on their COVID-19 testing and vaccination programs at (541) 672-9405 or log onto: https://www.cowcreek-nsn.gov/public-health/.  Tribal Health Care Programs receive their vaccines directly from the Federal Government, and not through our local public health allocation from the State.

VA WORKERS AND ELIGIBLE U.S. MILITARY VETERANS

The Roseburg VA Health Care System is setting up appointments for specific groups of veteran patients to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.  To qualify for the current round of COVID-19 vaccinations at the Roseburg VAMC, veterans must be 75 or older, or be homeless, or be a frontline essential worker, hemodialysis or organ transplant patient, or a chemotherapy patient receiving care at a clinic or hospital.  Also, note that according to the vaccine criteria established by the Federal Government and the CDC, at this time, spouses of veterans are not included on the list of eligible persons to get a COVID-19 vaccine from the Roseburg VAMC.  However, there is one exception that we have found, a Veteran’s Care Provider, who is being paid by the VA under the new Family Caregiver Assistance program might be eligible.  Anyone interested in applying for that program or to find out about veteran vaccine eligibility needs to contact Roseburg VAMC directly.  The Douglas County Veterans Service Office at the county does not have the authority or ability to get vaccines for veterans or their spouses.  VA Health Care Systems receive their vaccine directly from the Federal Government and not through our local public health allocation from the State.  For more information, call the Roseburg VAMC at (541) 440-1000 or log onto: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.

WHAT IF I AM NOT ON THE OHA ELIGIBLE LIST RIGHT NOW?

As we have mentioned before, if you are not specifically listed on one of OHA’s published eligible vaccine groups, then you are not eligible to get or sign up for the vaccine yet.  We ask that you please be patient and wait until you are eligible to contact your doctor, health care provider, DPHN, Douglas County, local hospitals and our hotline.  Again, just because you will be in an upcoming eligibility group does not mean we have vaccines available for you, or that we know when we might receive vaccines for your group.

COVID Vaccine Update from Lower Umpqua Hospital District

Shared from Lower Umpqua Hospital District (LUHD).  Effective as of Wednesday, February 24, 2021 Lower Umpqua Hospital District now has a COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center for COVID-19 vaccine information.  The LUHD COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center number is (541) 271-2175, and is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.  LUHD has been working diligently to provide our community with a call center where eligible residents can call to obtain COVID-19 vaccine information. The Call Center staff will contact eligible community members to invite them to upcoming vaccine clinics. COVID vaccine clinics are scheduled upon incremental distribution of vaccine to LUHD and at which time registration to our community is by invitation.  We ask that only vaccine eligible residents call the center. We are following CDC and Oregon Health Authority guidelines on phase distribution while receiving guidance from Douglas County Public Health. The Call Center staff will need your full name, date of birth, and phone number to pre-register you.  While state and national news communicate a specific age grouping is now eligible for vaccination, the prior age groups may still be receiving their initial dose due to incremental vaccine distribution. The graphic below provides a view of the current vaccination status in our community. The green represents those who have been vaccinated, yellow represents the current group we are working with and the orange represents the groups which are eligible when vaccine becomes available. It will be updated on a regular basis as we progress through the vaccination process. Please be patient as we work through our eligible groups. In addition, we are also distributing second doses to groups who have already received their first dose. Second doses can be given within 28 to 42 days from when the original dose was given. Therefore, de-pending on available vaccine, your second dose might not be at exactly 28 days. We will contact eligible individuals to schedule their second vaccine.

UPDATE: COVID-19 Vaccine Availability and Allocation Information

Your Local Public Health Administrator and Douglas County Public Health Official, along with DPHN and our local health care partners have been working hard to acquire more vaccines and vaccinate those that want the vaccine, that are eligible.

The good news is that we finally received our allotment of 1,400 first dose vaccines from the State of Oregon for last week, that were delayed due to severe winter storms across the nation.  We also received our allotment of 2,500 first dose vaccines for this week, as well.  All of the recent shipment of first doses have been deployed to local approved vaccinators throughout the county. As we mentioned before, we are finally seeing a fair and equitable allotment of COVID vaccines from the State of Oregon and we are hopeful that the distribution levels will continue.  Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, our Douglas County Public Health Officer, said earlier this week that he believes that, “vaccine distribution has been normalized in Oregon, and Douglas County should be getting a reasonable and fair share of doses, which properly reflects the number of residents and seniors in our population.”  We would like to note that the recent changes to the vaccine allocation for Douglas County from the State were a direct result of the tenacious efforts by our Douglas County Commissioners and Dr. Dannenhoffer in advocating for our fair share of COVID-19 vaccines.  Progress is a wonderful thing. 

It is also important to understand that in addition to the first dose vaccines that we receive from the State of Oregon on a weekly basis, we also receive our allocation of second dose vaccines, which are paired with the first doses, and are not counted in the overall total vaccines that we have received.   Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government or their partners. 

How Do I Get My Second Dose of the COVID Vaccine?  

For those residents who have already received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, here are a few answers to questions about your second and final dose.

• At the present moment, we are told that those who get vaccinated can expect a second dose about 4-6 weeks after the first dose. Currently, the State/OHA and the Federal Government are considerably behind on sending the second dose of the vaccine out.
• You should have received a vaccination card when you received your first dose that details the brand of vaccine, its lot number, and the date the vaccine was given.   This card is for your records only, and is not official proof that you have received the vaccine. Proof of your vaccination rests with the State Alert System, which is accessible by medical facilities.
• You should get your second dose from the same provider or organization from which you received your first. However, the physical address where you receive the second dose may change.
• You will be notified by the provider or organization that gave you your first dose about where and when you’ll receive your second dose.
• I got a first vaccine out of the area, can I get my second vaccine in Douglas County?  The second vaccine dose is “paired” to the first dose, and your second dose will be sent to wherever you got your first dose.  So, except in rare circumstances, you will need to return to where you got your first dose.
• If you have questions, please contact the provider or organization where you received your first dose.

Vaccine Voices: “I Decided to Kick My Fear Aside!”

Shared from OHA.  Robin de La Mora is the owner of Collaborative Employment Innovations (CEI) in Corvallis, Oregon. CEI provides employment services such as job coaching, placement and supports to adults with disabilities. Her work providing direct service to people with disabilities qualified her for Phase 1A of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. Robin is a mother and a grandmother. She is also a caregiver to an elderly parent with underlying conditions. Robin shares her story: 

“I had mixed feelings about receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. I needed to process my personal responsibility to family, community, and myself. I had to think about my grandchildren's academic and mental health and their need to return to school. I had to think about how to best protect my father, provide employment services to individuals with disabilities, and return to in-person volunteering.  As a proud, successful Mexican-American woman, I decided to kick my fear aside and put my health and the health of others first. On February 7,2021, I received my second dose of the vaccine for protection against a virus that disproportionately affects people with developmental disabilities and Black and Brown communities.” For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine log onto: covidvaccine.oregon.gov or vacunacovid.oregon.gov.

Please Keep You and Your Family Safe

We are not able to predict when we will receive more vaccines, or when State guidelines might change or when we can start to resume some sort of normality in our lives, but, we can continue encourage everyone, for the sake of our local businesses, services and residents, to gauge your risk level, and make the best choice in order protect yourself and those around you from contracting or spreading the coronavirus.  We have provided education on the widely proven COVID-19 safety measures, and encourage you to limit your contact with others not from your household, stay home if you are sick, and wear face coverings where recommended.  Click here, for a graphic on how to protect you and your family from the spread of COVID-19.  We know how important family, businesses and faith are to you, so we ask that you consider all options available in order to eliminate and minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus in our communities to help protect the ones you love, the businesses you love and the places you love to go.

Local COVID-19 Testing and Facebook Live

Douglas County COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Clinics

Due to widely available COVID-19 testing opportunities in Douglas County, your local public health authority and DPHN have decided to step-back our drive-through testing clinics to one day a week for the time being.  If needs increase, we are prepared to increase testing to 2-3 times a week again.  As we have reported before, we were one of the first counties in the state to do a drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic, and we have done 2-3 clinics a week since March 2020 in Roseburg, as well as drive-through testing clinics in Reedsport.  DPHN has also been part of increasing the availability and types of testing at multiple sites and locations across the county, also leading the state in rapid testing availability.  The next drive-through testing clinic will be Friday, March 5, 2021, in Roseburg.   As a reminder, if you are having symptoms of COVID-19 including cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains, diarrhea, sore throat or decreased sense of smell and taste, talk to your health care provider about being tested for COVID-19.  Patients without a Primary Care Provider that are looking for a COVID-19 test can contact the Sutherlin Aviva Health Clinic at (541) 459-3788. 

Facebook Live with Dr. Bob

Join us Tuesday, March 2, 2021 at 6:00 pm for the next Facebook Live with Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, the Douglas County Public Health Officer. The show is hosted by DPHN on the DPHN Facebook page.  Please submit your questions during the live show or you can email questions to: ookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org">Facebookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org.  Dr. Bob and the DPHN team will do their best to respond to as many questions as they can during the live shows.

State and Federal COVID-19 Info

Again, it is important to note that we are not the ones setting the guidelines for vaccine eligibility or availability. We are following the current priority group guidelines and criteria set by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).  Go online or contact the CDC or OHA directly for more information.  OHA posts it’s COVID updates and reports at www.healthoregon.org/coronavirus.  

Please do not call 911, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office or Douglas County Offices to report compliance issues with the State of Oregon, OHA or Governor’s orders. The Governor has directed the State offices for Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) to be the enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring restaurants, bars, and other businesses comply with the current State COVID guidelines.  If you have concerns, questions or wish to report compliance issues contact these state agencies directly:  OSHA: (800) 922-2689 or OSHA website or OLCC (503) 872-5000 or OLCC website.

Local COVID-19 Resources

Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020.  

Local Online Access to Updates: Stay up to date with accurate and local COVID-19 information in Douglas County on the Douglas County Government website or DCGOV Facebook page or the DPHN website or DPHN Facebook page. 

Free Local e-Newsletter Subscription: You can also sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter that publishes and sends out the daily update to our subscription base for free.  You can sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter at www.co.douglas.or.us.  Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020. 

Douglas County COVID-19 Hotline (541) 464-6550: Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners and DPHN continue to offer a local resource hotline for Douglas County residents for COVID-19. The hotline provides answer to frequently asked questions, basic information and referrals to resources and services. The Hotline is staffed from 8:00 am to 5: pm, 7 days a week.

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Contact Tamara Howell, Public Information Officer, Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, (541) 670-2804 cell (541) 957-4896 tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us   

Contact Vanessa Becker, Public Information Officer, Douglas Public Health Network, (541) 817-6552 cell (541) 440-3571 vanessa@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org

Our local COVID-19 updates represent the coordinated effort of the agencies that make up the DCCRT

JOINT INFORMATION CENTER PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 26, 2021

DOUGLAS COUNTY COVID-19 RESPONSE TEAM - DAILY UPDATE

(Douglas County, Ore.)  Douglas County COVID-19 Test Results:  As of 12:00 pm Today, Friday, February 26, 2021, there are FIFTEEN (15) people with new positive test result to report since our noon case update yesterday.  The total number of cases (people with positive test results and presumptives) in Douglas County is now at 2,457.  Currently, there are SIXTEEN (16) Douglas County COVID-19 patients that are being hospitalized, twelve locally and four out-of-the-area. Our Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, under the direction of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, continue to devote all resources available to our local COVID response.

Douglas County COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation Update

The good news is that we finally received our allotment of 1,400 first dose vaccines from the State of Oregon for last week, that were delayed due to severe winter storms across the nation.  We also received our allotment of 2,500 first dose vaccines for this week, as well.  All of the recent shipment of first doses have been deployed to local approved vaccinators throughout the county. As we mentioned before, we are finally seeing a fair and equitable allotment of COVID vaccines from the State of Oregon and we are hopeful that the distribution levels will continue.  Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, our Douglas County Public Health Officer, said earlier this week that he believes that, “vaccine distribution has been normalized in Oregon, and Douglas County should be getting a reasonable and fair share of doses, which properly reflects the number of residents and seniors in our population.”  We would like to note that the recent changes to the vaccine allocation for Douglas County from the State were a direct result of the tenacious efforts by our Douglas County Commissioners and Dr. Dannenhoffer in advocating for our fair share of COVID-19 vaccines.  Progress is a wonderful thing. 

It is also important to understand that in addition to the first dose vaccines that we receive from the State of Oregon on a weekly basis, we also receive our allocation of second dose vaccines, which are paired with the first doses, and are not counted in the overall total vaccines that we have received.   Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government or their partners. 

Local Contacts and Cases Being Supported in Isolation and Quarantine

As of today, Friday, February 26, 2021, there are 34 different Douglas County K-12 schools that have COVID-19 school outbreaks, which represent 85 of our recent COVID cases.  DPHN, Douglas ESD and local school officials are working together to support those cases, as well as those in quarantine.  For more information, click here for the link to the DPHN school quarantine flyer.  Currently, DPHN is supporting 234 cases in isolation, as well as another 481 contacts in quarantine in Douglas County. Isolation is recommended for confirmed and presumptive cases, quarantine is recommended for contacts of confirmed or presumptive cases.  Currently, staff is supporting an astounding 715 total contacts and cases in isolation or quarantine.  This number represents a snapshot of the significant amount of work being done locally to help control the spread of COVID.

Our daily update includes the total number of cases in Douglas County, which combines people with positive test results and presumptives, as well as a breakout of those case numbers. There will be times when a presumptive will move to a positive test result, and our total case number will not change because the case has already been counted. On Thursday, February 11, 2021, we removed the vaccination distribution row from our daily COVID chart, and instead we will be providing a vaccine tally once a week on Fridays for the vaccines received by our local public health, and then deployed to local vaccinators. Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government.

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

According to the State of Oregon/OHA’s vaccination eligibility plan, as of today, Friday, February 26, 2021, residents in the following categories are eligible to make an appointment for the COVID-19 Vaccine:

• Phase 1-A, Groups 1-4: All health care facilities, providers and workers; first responders; EMS, skilled, long term and memory care facilities; correctional facility workers; tribal health programs; VA workers and qualifying Veterans; caregivers of medically fragile individuals who live at home; age-eligible individuals with a medical condition or disability who receive services in their homes.
• Phase 1-B, Group 1: Child care providers, early learning and K-12 educators and staff. 
• Phase 1-B, Group 2: Residents 80-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 3: Residents 75-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 4: Residents 70-years-of-age or older

Now Eligible: Phase 1-B, Group 4: Seniors 70 And Older

According to the State, as of Monday, February 22, 2021, the next group of seniors, residents who are aged 70-years-old and older (Phase 1-B, Group 4), are now eligible to call and schedule an appointment with their local health care provider or local pharmacies who are signed up to be vaccinators in Douglas County.  As a reminder, we ask that you please be patient and gracious with the staff at DPHN, our vaccinators and health care partners, as they are doing the best they can to schedule appointments based on the supply of COVID-19 vaccine that has been sent to Douglas County.

I am Eligible, How Do I Sign Up to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Our local public health continue to follow the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) eligibility guidelines, and are ONLY scheduling appointments for residents that are listed on OHA’s list of currently eligible groups at this time.  Douglas County, DPHN or your Doctor’s Office did not set the guidelines for who is eligible to get the vaccine.  For more information, on how the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) set up their COVID vaccine guidelines, please contact them directly.  As a reminder, eligibility dates and vaccine availability are always subject to change, and eligibility does not mean availability.  Please, if you are not in an eligible vaccine group right now, we ask that you continue to be patient, and wait to call, email or try to set up an appointment until after your age or eligibility group becomes eligible.     

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-A, GROUPS 1-4

Are you in a Phase 1-A eligibility group, but have not got the vaccine yet?  For those residents who are included in Phase 1-A, but have not received the COVID vaccine, please send an e-mail to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org and DPHN will connect you with a local vaccine provider. Please only send a request to get a vaccine to this email if you are Phase 1-A eligible.  

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 1

For those residents in Phase 1-B, Group 1: educators, childcare and early education workers, who were eligible as of January 25, 2021, you should have already received two emails about your eligibility from DPHN or Douglas ESD.  If you are in that group and still want a vaccine, please send an email to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org">educatorvaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org.  If you did not receive an e-mail, please contact your employer.

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 2, 3 & 4: SENIORS 70 AND OLDER

Are you 70-years-of-age or older?  Then, you are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.  As of Monday, February 22, 2021, residents 70-years-of-age and older became eligible to schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Eligible seniors are asked to call and set up an appointment with their health care provider or local pharmacy listed on our vaccinators list.  We updated our Douglas County Senior Population COVID Vaccination Plan, complete with a list of local health care agencies that have signed up vaccinate residents on Thursday, February 25, 2021.  We originally released our plan on February 5, 2021. Click here to read the updated Douglas County Senior Population Vaccination Plan.  Our plan for Senior COVID-19 Vaccinations in Douglas County is to have eligible seniors get their COVID vaccine where they get their regular health care or flu vaccine.  As a reminder, because the COVID vaccines have very specific handling constraints, all providers offering to vaccinate eligible residents will be administering vaccines with a scheduled appointment only.  Doctor’s offices, medical facilities, Urgent Care Clinics and Pharmacy’s will not and cannot do walk-in appointments. 

We ask that eligible seniors contact their health care provider FIRST, to see if they are administering the COVID vaccine.  If not, we encourage you to ask them to get signed up to be a vaccinator.  Also, if they are not vaccinating, ask them for a referral to another health care provider, clinic or pharmacy, that is administering the vaccine.  If they do not provide referrals, then please contact your regular pharmacy or a pharmacy listed on our vaccinators list and ask them about scheduling an appointment.  Please also note that many of our health care providers listed below on our vaccinators list are currently working through their eligible patient lists first.  So, they may not be scheduling appointments for new, referral or outside patients at this time. 

Our current list of local vaccinators includes:

Albertsons- Edenbower

Angela Jones, MD

Umpqua Valley Internists

Aviva Health – Glide

Aviva Health - Myrtle Creek

Aviva Health - North County

Aviva Health – Roseburg

Aviva Health - Roseburg SBHC

Aviva Health – Sutherlin

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 609

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 652

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 676

Canyonville Health & Urgent Care

Christine Seals

Confederated Tribes Coos, Lower Umpqua, Siuslaw Indians

Costco Pharmacy

Current Orthodontics

Douglas County Fire District 2

Evergreen Family Medicine

Evergreen Family Medicine Harvard Campus

Evergreen Family Medicine South

Excellence in Women’s Healthcare

Family Tree Medical Clinic

Fred Meyer Pharmacy 281

Genoa Healthcare Pharmacy - Roseburg

Gerald A Jaworski, MD, PC

Glendale Ambulance District

Gordons Pharmacy                            

Kidsdocs, PC

Lower Umpqua Hospital

Mercy Medical Center - Roseburg

North River Pediatrics PC

Nova Health - Goetz

Nova Health - Roseburg

One Peak Medical Clinic - Roseburg

Safeway - Stephens

Southriver Community Health Center

Steelhead Oncology

Two Rivers Integrative Medicine LLC

Umpqua Health - Newton Creek

Umpqua Valley Ambulance

Valley Ridge Family Medicine

Please note that there are many more residents and seniors who need and want vaccine than there are available doses.  Vaccine supply is beyond our control, but we continue to submit requests and strive to get as much vaccine sent to Douglas County as possible. Over a period of 5 weeks, about 30,000 Douglas County seniors will become eligible for the vaccine, but we expect to only receive a small fraction of the doses needed to vaccinate them.  Even though a medical facility or office is listed as a vaccinator, does not guarantee they will have vaccine; they are organizations that have signed up to help vaccinate.  We ask for your patience as we work with the State and OHA to acquire more vaccines.

LOCAL TRIBAL HEALTH VACCINE PROGRAMS

Are you a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians?  If you are a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians, please contact them for information on their COVID-19 testing and vaccination programs at (541) 672-9405 or log onto: https://www.cowcreek-nsn.gov/public-health/.  Tribal Health Care Programs receive their vaccines directly from the Federal Government, and not through our local public health allocation from the State.

VA WORKERS AND ELIGIBLE U.S. MILITARY VETERANS

If you are a U.S. Military Veteran, you might be eligible to get vaccinated at the Roseburg VAMC.  The Roseburg VA Health Care System is setting up appointments for specific groups of veteran patients to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.  To qualify for the current round of COVID-19 vaccinations at the Roseburg VAMC, veterans must be 75 or older, or be homeless, or be a frontline essential worker, hemodialysis or organ transplant patient, or a chemotherapy patient receiving care at a clinic or hospital.  Also, note that according to the vaccine criteria established by the Federal Government and the CDC, at this time, spouses of veterans are not included on the list of eligible persons to get a COVID-19 vaccine from the Roseburg VAMC.  However, there is one exception that we have found, a Veteran’s Care Provider, who is being paid by the VA under the new Family Caregiver Assistance program might be eligible.  Anyone interested in applying for that program or to find out about veteran vaccine eligibility needs to contact Roseburg VAMC directly.  The Douglas County Veterans Service Office at the county does not have the authority or ability to get vaccines for veterans or their spouses.  VA Health Care Systems receive their vaccine directly from the Federal Government and not through our local public health allocation from the State.  For more information, call the Roseburg VAMC at (541) 440-1000 or log onto: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.

WHAT IF I AM NOT ON THE OHA ELIGIBLE LIST RIGHT NOW?

As we have mentioned before, if you are not specifically listed on one of OHA’s published eligible vaccine groups, then you are not eligible to get or sign up for the vaccine yet.  We ask that you please be patient and wait until you are eligible to contact your doctor, health care provider, DPHN, Douglas County, local hospitals and our hotline.  Again, just because you will be in an upcoming eligibility group does not mean we have vaccines available for you, or that we know when we might receive vaccines for your group.

COVID Vaccine Update from Lower Umpqua Hospital District

Shared from Lower Umpqua Hospital District (LUHD).  Effective as of Wednesday, February 24, 2021 Lower Umpqua Hospital District now has a COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center for COVID-19 vaccine information.  The LUHD COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center number is (541) 271-2175, and is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.  LUHD has been working diligently to provide our community with a call center where eligible residents can call to obtain COVID-19 vaccine information. The Call Center staff will contact eligible community members to invite them to upcoming vaccine clinics. COVID vaccine clinics are scheduled upon incremental distribution of vaccine to LUHD and at which time registration to our community is by invitation.  We ask that only vaccine eligible residents call the center. We are following CDC and Oregon Health Authority guidelines on phase distribution while receiving guidance from Douglas County Public Health. The Call Center staff will need your full name, date of birth, and phone number to pre-register you.  While state and national news communicate a specific age grouping is now eligible for vaccination, the prior age groups may still be receiving their initial dose due to incremental vaccine distribution. The graphic below provides a view of the current vaccination status in our community. The green represents those who have been vaccinated, yellow represents the current group we are working with and the orange represents the groups which are eligible when vaccine becomes available. It will be updated on a regular basis as we progress through the vaccination process. Please be patient as we work through our eligible groups. In addition, we are also distributing second doses to groups who have already received their first dose. Second doses can be given within 28 to 42 days from when the original dose was given. Therefore, de-pending on available vaccine, your second dose might not be at exactly 28 days. We will contact eligible individuals to schedule their second vaccine.

UPDATE: COVID-19 Vaccine Availability and Allocation Information

Your Local Public Health Administrator and Douglas County Public Health Official, along with DPHN and our local health care partners have been working hard to acquire more vaccines and vaccinate those that want the vaccine, that are eligible.

We are finally seeing some hope on the horizon with our vaccine allocation from the State and Federal government with regards to our allocation of COVID-19 vaccines. As a reminder, in addition to the first dose vaccines that we receive from the State of Oregon, we also receive our allotment of second doses of the vaccine, which are paired with the first dose for each resident, and are not counted in our cumulative total of vaccines that we have received, because they are the match doses for the first dose.  Please note that our local cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government or their partners. 

How Do I Get My Second Dose of the COVID Vaccine?  

For those residents who have already received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, here are a few answers to questions about your second and final dose.

• At the present moment, we are told that those who get vaccinated can expect a second dose about 4-6 weeks after the first dose. Currently, the State/OHA and the Federal Government are considerably behind on sending the second dose of the vaccine out.
• You should have received a vaccination card when you received your first dose that details the brand of vaccine, its lot number, and the date the vaccine was given.   This card is for your records only, and is not official proof that you have received the vaccine. Proof of your vaccination rests with the State Alert System, which is accessible by medical facilities.
• You should get your second dose from the same provider or organization from which you received your first. However, the physical address where you receive the second dose may change.
• You will be notified by the provider or organization that gave you your first dose about where and when you’ll receive your second dose.
• I got a first vaccine out of the area, can I get my second vaccine in Douglas County?  The second vaccine dose is “paired” to the first dose, and your second dose will be sent to wherever you got your first dose.  So, except in rare circumstances, you will need to return to where you got your first dose.
• If you have questions, please contact the provider or organization where you received your first dose.

Please Keep You and Your Family Safe

We are not able to predict when we will receive more vaccines, or when State guidelines might change or when we can start to resume some sort of normality in our lives, but, we can continue encourage everyone, for the sake of our local businesses, services and residents, to gauge your risk level, and make the best choice in order protect yourself and those around you from contracting or spreading the coronavirus.  We have provided education on the widely proven COVID-19 safety measures, and encourage you to limit your contact with others not from your household, stay home if you are sick, and wear face coverings where recommended.  Click here, for a graphic on how to protect you and your family from the spread of COVID-19.  We know how important family, businesses and faith are to you, so we ask that you consider all options available in order to eliminate and minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus in our communities to help protect the ones you love, the businesses you love and the places you love to go.

Local COVID-19 Testing and Facebook Live

Douglas County COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Clinics

Due to widely available COVID-19 testing opportunities in Douglas County, your local public health authority and DPHN have decided to step-back our drive-through testing clinics to one day a week for the time being.  If needs increase, we are prepared to increase testing to 2-3 times a week again.  As we have reported before, we were one of the first counties in the state to do a drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic, and we have done 2-3 clinics a week since March 2020 in Roseburg, as well as drive-through testing clinics in Reedsport.  DPHN has also been part of increasing the availability and types of testing at multiple sites and locations across the county, also leading the state in rapid testing availability.  The next drive-through testing clinic will be Friday, February 26, 2021, in Roseburg.   As a reminder, if you are having symptoms of COVID-19 including cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains, diarrhea, sore throat or decreased sense of smell and taste, talk to your health care provider about being tested for COVID-19.  Patients without a Primary Care Provider that are looking for a COVID-19 test can contact the Sutherlin Aviva Health Clinic at (541) 459-3788. 

Facebook Live with Dr. Bob

Join us Friday, February 26, 2021 at 4:00 pm for the next Facebook Live with Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, the Douglas County Public Health Officer. The show is hosted by DPHN on the DPHN Facebook page.  Please submit your questions during the live show or you can email questions to: ookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org">Facebookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org.  Dr. Bob and the DPHN team will do their best to respond to as many questions as they can during the live shows.

Lower Umpqua Hospital District Names CEO

Shared from Lower Umpqua Hospital District (LUHD). The members of the Lower Umpqua Hospital District (LUHD) board of directors are pleased to announce that Paul Connolly has been named Chief Executive Officer for LUHD effective March 1, 2021. LUHD is a non-profit Special District which is comprised of a Critical Access Hospital, three clinics, and a Family Resource Center. Paul Connolly has over 20 years of leadership experience in the medical field; including positions as service line administrator, practice administrator, regional operations manager, medical group manager, and interim administrator. Connolly came to Reedsport to serve as Interim Clinic Director at Dunes Family Health Care. The board was impressed with his leadership skills and asked Connolly to remain onboard as Interim CEO, when that position became available in November 2020.

“I believe Paul Connolly is the right person for the job,” said board president, Ron Kreskey. “The past year has been very difficult and challenging for the District. As Interim CEO, Connolly, took charge, researched and reviewed all the issues facing the District. He worked with the staff to put the District on track to survive in the face of a world-wide pandemic as well as all the other issues facing businesses today.”

“Connolly has worked in hospitals in small communities and in rural areas, and we think his experience and expertise line up with the needs of our community and our hospital remarkably well,” continued Kreskey.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead the District during these unprecedented, challenging times and look forward to working together with providers and staff to chart the future course of Lower Umpqua Hospital District” said Paul Connolly.

State and Federal COVID-19 Info

Again, it is important to note that we are not the ones setting the guidelines for vaccine eligibility or availability. We are following the current priority group guidelines and criteria set by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).  Go online or contact the CDC or OHA directly for more information.  OHA posts it’s COVID updates and reports at www.healthoregon.org/coronavirus.  

Please do not call 911, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office or Douglas County Offices to report compliance issues with the State of Oregon, OHA or Governor’s orders. The Governor has directed the State offices for Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) to be the enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring restaurants, bars, and other businesses comply with the current State COVID guidelines.  If you have concerns, questions or wish to report compliance issues contact these state agencies directly:  OSHA: (800) 922-2689 or OSHA website or OLCC (503) 872-5000 or OLCC website

Local COVID-19 Resources

Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020.  

Local Online Access to Updates: Stay up to date with accurate and local COVID-19 information in Douglas County on the Douglas County Government website or DCGOV Facebook page or the DPHN website or DPHN Facebook page. 

Free Local e-Newsletter Subscription: You can also sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter that publishes and sends out the daily update to our subscription base for free.  You can sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter at www.co.douglas.or.us.  Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020. 

Douglas County COVID-19 Hotline (541) 464-6550: Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners and DPHN continue to offer a local resource hotline for Douglas County residents for COVID-19. The hotline provides answer to frequently asked questions, basic information and referrals to resources and services. The Hotline is staffed from 8:00 am to 5: pm, 7 days a week.

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Contact Tamara Howell, Public Information Officer, Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, (541) 670-2804 cell (541) 957-4896 tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us   

Contact Vanessa Becker, Public Information Officer, Douglas Public Health Network, (541) 817-6552 cell (541) 440-3571 vanessa@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org

Our local COVID-19 updates represent the coordinated effort of the agencies that make up the DCCRT

JOINT INFORMATION CENTER PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 25, 2021

DOUGLAS COUNTY COVID-19 RESPONSE TEAM - DAILY UPDATE

(Douglas County, Ore.)  Douglas County COVID-19 Test Results:  As of 12:00 pm Today, Thursday, February 25, 2021, there are TWENTY-FOUR (24) people with new positive test results, ONE (1) new presumptive and ONE (1) death to report since our noon case update yesterday.  The total number of cases (people with positive test results and presumptives) in Douglas County is now at 2,442.  Currently, there are SIXTEEN (16) Douglas County COVID-19 patients that are being hospitalized, twelve locally and four out-of-the-area. Our Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, under the direction of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, continue to devote all resources available to our local COVID response.

COVID-19 Related Death of a Douglas County Resident

Our Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, has confirmed the death of another Douglas County resident related to the COVID-19 virus. Our fifty-fourth death is a 73-year-old man who was diagnosed with COVID-19 on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 and passed away on Wednesday, February 24, 2021. In the interest of privacy for the loved ones of these residents, no additional information will be released.  Each death related to COVID-19 is painful for all Douglas County residents, and a sad reminder of the terrible impact COVID-19 has had in our local communities. The Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Dr. Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT team extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathies to all family members, friends, relatives, co-workers and community members of those who have passed after contracting this deadly virus.

Local Contacts and Cases Being Supported in Isolation and Quarantine

Currently, DPHN is supporting 240 cases in isolation, as well as another 499 contacts in quarantine in Douglas County. Isolation is recommended for confirmed and presumptive cases, quarantine is recommended for contacts of confirmed or presumptive cases.  Currently, staff is supporting an astounding 739 total contacts and cases in isolation or quarantine.  This number represents a snapshot of the significant amount of work being done locally to help control the spread of COVID.

Our daily update includes the total number of cases in Douglas County, which combines people with positive test results and presumptives, as well as a breakout of those case numbers. There will be times when a presumptive will move to a positive test result, and our total case number will not change because the case has already been counted. On Thursday, February 11, 2021, we removed the vaccination distribution row from our daily COVID chart, and instead we will be providing a vaccine tally once a week on Fridays for the vaccines received by our local public health, and then deployed to local vaccinators. Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government.

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

According to the State of Oregon/OHA’s vaccination eligibility plan, as of today, Thursday, February 25, 2021, residents in the following categories are eligible to make an appointment for the COVID-19 Vaccine:

• Phase 1-A, Groups 1-4: All health care facilities, providers and workers; first responders; EMS, skilled, long term and memory care facilities; correctional facility workers; tribal health programs; VA workers and qualifying Veterans; caregivers of medically fragile individuals who live at home; age-eligible individuals with a medical condition or disability who receive services in their homes.
• Phase 1-B, Group 1: Child care providers, early learning and K-12 educators and staff. 
• Phase 1-B, Group 2: Residents 80-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 3: Residents 75-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 4: Residents 70-years-of-age or older

Now Eligible: Phase 1-B, Group 4: Seniors 70 And Older

According to the State, as of Monday, February 22, 2021, the next group of seniors, residents who are aged 70-years-old and older (Phase 1-B, Group 4), are now eligible to call and schedule an appointment with their local health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facilities who are signed up to be vaccinators in Douglas County.   As a reminder, we ask that you please be patient and gracious with the staff at DPHN, our vaccinators and health care partners, as they are doing the best they can to schedule appointments based on the supply of COVID-19 vaccine that has been sent to Douglas County.

I am Eligible, How Do I Sign Up to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Our local public health continue to follow the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) eligibility guidelines, and are ONLY scheduling appointments for residents that are listed on OHA’s list of currently eligible groups at this time.  Douglas County, DPHN or your Doctor’s Office did not set the guidelines for who is eligible to get the vaccine.  For more information, on how the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) set up their COVID vaccine guidelines, please contact them directly.  As a reminder, eligibility dates and vaccine availability are always subject to change, and eligibility does not mean availability.  Please, if you are not in an eligible vaccine group right now, we ask that you continue to be patient, and wait to call, email or try to set up an appointment until after your age or eligibility group becomes eligible.     

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-A, GROUPS 1-4

Are you in a Phase 1-A eligibility group, but have not got the vaccine yet?  For those residents who are included in Phase 1-A, but have not received the COVID vaccine, please send an e-mail to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org and DPHN will connect you with a local vaccine provider. Please only send a request to get a vaccine to this email if you are Phase 1-A eligible.  

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 1

For those residents in Phase 1-B, Group 1: educators, childcare and early education workers, who were eligible as of January 25, 2021, you should have already received two emails about your eligibility from DPHN or Douglas ESD.  If you are in that group and still want a vaccine, please send an email to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org">educatorvaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org.  If you did not receive an e-mail, please contact your employer.

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 2, 3 & 4: SENIORS 70 AND OLDER

Are you 70-years-of-age or older?  Then, you are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.  As of Monday, February 22, 2021, residents 70-years-of-age and older became eligible to schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Eligible seniors are asked to call and set up an appointment with their health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facility on our current local vaccinators list.  We updated our Douglas County Senior Population COVID Vaccination Plan, complete with a list of local health care agencies that have signed up vaccinate residents on Thursday, February 25, 2021.  We originally released our plan on February 5, 2021. Click here to read the updated Douglas County Senior Population Vaccination Plan.  Our plan for Senior COVID-19 Vaccinations in Douglas County is to have eligible seniors get their COVID vaccine where they get their regular health care or flu vaccine.  As a reminder, because the COVID vaccines have very specific handling constraints, all providers offering to vaccinate eligible residents will be administering vaccines with a scheduled appointment only.  Doctor’s offices, medical facilities, Urgent Care Clinics and Pharmacy’s will not and cannot do walk-in appointments. (Please note that yesterday, we listed Albertson’s on Stephens, we have updated our list to correctly list Safeway on Stephens as a local vaccinator.)

Our current list of local vaccinators includes:

Albertsons- Edenbower

Angela Jones, MD

Umpqua Valley Internists

Aviva Health - Glide

Aviva Health - Myrtle Creek

Aviva Health - North County

Aviva Health - Roseburg

Aviva Health - Roseburg SBHC

Aviva Health - Sutherlin

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 609

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 652

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 676

Canyonville Health & Urgent Care

Christine Seals

Confederated Tribes Coos, Lower Umpqua, Siuslaw Indians

Costco Pharmacy

Current Orthodontics

Douglas County Fire District 2

Evergreen Family Medicine

Evergreen Family Medicine Harvard Campus

Evergreen Family Medicine South

Excellence in Women’s Healthcare

Family Tree Medical Clinic

Fred Meyer Pharmacy 281

Genoa Healthcare Pharmacy - Roseburg

Gerald A Jaworski, MD, PC

Glendale Ambulance District

Gordons Pharmacy

Kidsdocs, PC

Lower Umpqua Hospital

Mercy Medical Center - Roseburg

North River Pediatrics PC

Nova Health - Goetz

Nova Health - Roseburg

One Peak Medical Clinic - Roseburg

Safeway - Stephens

Southriver Community Health Center

Steelhead Oncology

Two Rivers Integrative Medicine LLC

Umpqua Health - Newton Creek

Umpqua Valley Ambulance

Valley Ridge Family Medicine

Please note that there are many more residents and seniors who need and want vaccine than there are available doses.  Vaccine supply is beyond our control, but we continue to submit requests and strive to get as much vaccine sent to Douglas County as possible. Over a period of 5 weeks, about 30,000 Douglas County seniors will become eligible for the vaccine, but we expect to only receive a small fraction of the doses needed to vaccinate them.  Even though a medical facility or office is listed as a vaccinator, does not guarantee they will have vaccine; they are organizations that have signed up to help vaccinate.  We ask for your patience as we work with the State and OHA to acquire more vaccines. 

LOCAL TRIBAL HEALTH VACCINE PROGRAMS

Are you a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians?  If you are a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians, please contact them for information on their COVID-19 testing and vaccination programs at (541) 672-9405 or log onto: https://www.cowcreek-nsn.gov/public-health/.  Tribal Health Care Programs receive their vaccines directly from the Federal Government, and not through our local public health allocation from the State.

VA WORKERS AND ELIGIBLE U.S. MILITARY VETERANS

If you are a U.S. Military Veteran, you might be eligible to get vaccinated at the Roseburg VAMC.  The Roseburg VA Health Care System is setting up appointments for specific groups of veteran patients to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.  To qualify for the current round of COVID-19 vaccinations at the Roseburg VAMC, veterans must be 75 or older, or be homeless, or be a frontline essential worker, hemodialysis or organ transplant patient, or a chemotherapy patient receiving care at a clinic or hospital.  Also, note that according to the vaccine criteria established by the Federal Government and the CDC, at this time, spouses of veterans are not included on the list of eligible persons to get a COVID-19 vaccine from the Roseburg VAMC.  However, there is one exception that we have found, a Veteran’s Care Provider, who is being paid by the VA under the new Family Caregiver Assistance program might be eligible.  Anyone interested in applying for that program or to find out about veteran vaccine eligibility needs to contact Roseburg VAMC directly.  The Douglas County Veterans Service Office at the county does not have the authority or ability to get vaccines for veterans or their spouses.  VA Health Care Systems receive their vaccine directly from the Federal Government and not through our local public health allocation from the State.  For more information, call the Roseburg VAMC at (541) 440-1000 or log onto: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.

WHAT IF I AM NOT ON THE OHA ELIGIBLE LIST RIGHT NOW?

As we have mentioned before, if you are not specifically listed on one of OHA’s published eligible vaccine groups, then you are not eligible to get or sign up for the vaccine yet.  We ask that you please be patient and wait until you are eligible to contact your doctor, health care provider, DPHN, Douglas County, local hospitals and our hotline.  Again, just because you will be in an upcoming eligibility group does not mean we have vaccines available for you, or that we know when we might receive vaccines for your group.

UPDATE: COVID-19 Vaccine Availability and Allocation Information

Your Local Public Health Administrator and Douglas County Public Health Official, along with DPHN and our local health care partners have been working hard to acquire more vaccines and vaccinate those that want the vaccine, that are eligible.

We are finally seeing some hope on the horizon with our vaccine allocation from the State.  Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, our Douglas County Public Health Officer, has been an absolute stalwart advocate for the county and a burr in the State’s saddle for making the vaccine distribution equitable to Douglas County compared with the rest of the State. 

“Previously, Douglas County had been left behind in getting our fair share of COVID-19 vaccine doses from the state, compared with other counties.  But, now it appears that Douglas County is moving towards a more equitable distribution of vaccines from the State.  At this time, I believe vaccine distribution has been normalized in Oregon, and Douglas County should be getting a reasonable and fair share of doses, which properly reflects the number of residents and seniors in our population.  Douglas County expects to get 2,500 new doses each week for the next 6 weeks, plus second doses to match doses from 4 weeks earlier from the State.  While it is great that we have so many willing local vaccinators, but it has been frustrating not to have enough vaccines to distribute.  Our efforts with the state have paid off with their recent allocation formula change,” commented Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer. 

As a reminder, in addition to the first dose vaccines that we receive from the State of Oregon, we also receive our allotment of second doses of the vaccine, which are paired with the first dose for each resident, and are not counted in our cumulative total of vaccines that we have received, because they are the match doses for the first dose.  Please note that our local cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government or their partners. 

How Do I Get My Second Dose of the COVID Vaccine?  

For those residents who have already received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, here are a few answers to questions about your second and final dose.

• At the present moment, we are told that those who get vaccinated can expect a second dose about 4-6 weeks after the first dose. Currently, the State/OHA and the Federal Government are considerably behind on sending the second dose of the vaccine out.
• You should have received a vaccination card when you received your first dose that details the brand of vaccine, its lot number, and the date the vaccine was given.   This card is for your records only, and is not official proof that you have received the vaccine. Proof of your vaccination rests with the State Alert System, which is accessible by medical facilities.
• You should get your second dose from the same provider or organization from which you received your first. However, the physical address where you receive the second dose may change.
• You will be notified by the provider or organization that gave you your first dose about where and when you’ll receive your second dose.
• I got a first vaccine out of the area, can I get my second vaccine in Douglas County?  The second vaccine dose is “paired” to the first dose, and your second dose will be sent to wherever you got your first dose.  So, except in rare circumstances, you will need to return to where you got your first dose.
• If you have questions, please contact the provider or organization where you received your first dose.

Vaccine Voices: Leading by Example: “It was important to get the vaccine to show my children, friends, family, and community how much I want to keep them safe”

Shared from OHA. We wanted to share a message from Susan Prettyman, a Social Services Program Manager at Clatsop Community Action: "I was vaccinated at an event at the Armory in Astoria, Oregon, which was organized by Columbia Memorial Hospital.  Going into the appointment, I felt really anxious and concerned about what the side effects would be, but I also felt reassured, knowing that I was being vaccinated with the rest of my staff, and that this would be an experience we shared together.  Before we went in, our team talked about how we felt, our nerves, and how we could support each other during and after the experience. I was able to actually hold the hand of one of my coworkers who was feeling scared during her shot. The experience was really a lot to take in and process, but Columbia Memorial Hospital made the experience good for us, and overall, we were in and out within an hour. For myself, it was important to get the vaccine to show my children, friends, family, and community how much I want to keep them safe. We work with vulnerable populations, such as seniors, families, and the homeless in Clatsop County, and I want to keep them and myself healthy so we can stop the spread in our community. Sometimes, leading by example means doing things that seem scary, for the greater good of the community. I'm so fortunate that our entire staff at Clatsop Community Action chose to be vaccinated, so we can continue the work we do to help those most in need."  For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine log onto: covidvaccine.oregon.gov or vacunacovid.oregon.gov.

Please Keep You and Your Family Safe

We are not able to predict when we will receive more vaccines, or when State guidelines might change or when we can start to resume some sort of normality in our lives, but, we can continue encourage everyone, for the sake of our local businesses, services and residents, to gauge your risk level, and make the best choice in order protect yourself and those around you from contracting or spreading the coronavirus.  We have provided education on the widely proven COVID-19 safety measures, and encourage you to limit your contact with others not from your household, stay home if you are sick, and wear face coverings where recommended.  Click here, for a graphic on how to protect you and your family from the spread of COVID-19.  We know how important family, businesses and faith are to you, so we ask that you consider all options available in order to eliminate and minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus in our communities to help protect the ones you love, the businesses you love and the places you love to go.

Local COVID-19 Testing and Facebook Live

Douglas County COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Clinics

Due to widely available COVID-19 testing opportunities in Douglas County, your local public health authority and DPHN have decided to step-back our drive-through testing clinics to one day a week for the time being.  If needs increase, we are prepared to increase testing to 2-3 times a week again.  As we have reported before, we were one of the first counties in the state to do a drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic, and we have done 2-3 clinics a week since March 2020 in Roseburg, as well as drive-through testing clinics in Reedsport.  DPHN has also been part of increasing the availability and types of testing at multiple sites and locations across the county, also leading the state in rapid testing availability.  The next drive-through testing clinic will be Friday, February 26, 2021, in Roseburg.   As a reminder, if you are having symptoms of COVID-19 including cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains, diarrhea, sore throat or decreased sense of smell and taste, talk to your health care provider about being tested for COVID-19.  Patients without a Primary Care Provider that are looking for a COVID-19 test can contact the Sutherlin Aviva Health Clinic at (541) 459-3788. 

Facebook Live with Dr. Bob

Join us Friday, February 26, 2021 at 4:00 pm for the next Facebook Live with Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, the Douglas County Public Health Officer. The show is hosted by DPHN on the DPHN Facebook page.  Please submit your questions during the live show or you can email questions to: ookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org">Facebookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org.  Dr. Bob and the DPHN team will do their best to respond to as many questions as they can during the live shows.

New School Case Announced

Shared from Winston Dillard School District. In a notice released on February 22, 2021, Winston Dillard School District announced that they were notified by DPHN and Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, our Douglas County Public Health Officer, of a positive COVID-19 case at Winston Middle School in Winston. WDSD officials have been very proactive in their approach in dealing with this event to help mitigate the spread of the virus.

Here is a copy of the notice released:

“February 22, 2021. Dear Students, Families, and Staff.  We were notified by Douglas Public Health Network and Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, our Douglas County Public Health Officer, that we have had a student or staff member at Winston Middle School test positive for COVID-19. We continuing to work very closely with Douglas Public Health to establish who needs to quarantine and to notify parents of the children in the cohort that the individual that tested positive was in.  If your child was in the same cohort, or if you are a staff member that needs to quarantine, you will be notified by the school officials this evening. If you do not hear from the school, your child is not affected by this quarantine. Douglas Public Health Network will work to contact you in the next 24 hours if you or your child need to quarantine. If you have general concerns or questions about COVID-19, please call the Douglas Public Health Network hotline at 541-464-6550, 7 days a week between 8-5:00 pm.”

For reference: OHA issues a weekly COVID-19 report that publishes data on K-12 schools with in-person instruction, child/day care centers, businesses and care facilities that meet their outbreak criteria. As of last week, OHA’s policy related to school outbreaks is to report outbreaks with 1 or more cases in school settings at any place of learning for students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, or a subset, with at least 30 students enrolled. Case counts includes employees, staff, volunteers or students at the school. According to OHA, the notice is to inform the public of potential COVID-19 exposure and to provide transparency surrounding COVID-19 in schools. School is defined as any place of learning for students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, or a subset, with at least 30 students enrolled. This includes, but is not limited to, public schools, private schools, parochial and charter schools. Staff is defined as any person who works full time or part-time at the school, regardless of their position. A volunteer is defined as any person who volunteers onsite.

State and Federal COVID-19 Info

Again, it is important to note that we are not the ones setting the guidelines for vaccine eligibility or availability. We are following the current priority group guidelines and criteria set by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).  Go online or contact the CDC or OHA directly for more information.  OHA posts it’s COVID updates and reports at www.healthoregon.org/coronavirus.  

Please do not call 911, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office or Douglas County Offices to report compliance issues with the State of Oregon, OHA or Governor’s orders. The Governor has directed the State offices for Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) to be the enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring restaurants, bars, and other businesses comply with the current State COVID guidelines.  If you have concerns, questions or wish to report compliance issues contact these state agencies directly:  OSHA: (800) 922-2689 or OSHA website or OLCC (503) 872-5000 or OLCC website

Local COVID-19 Resources

Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020.  

Local Online Access to Updates: Stay up to date with accurate and local COVID-19 information in Douglas County on the Douglas County Government website or DCGOV Facebook page or the DPHN website or DPHN Facebook page. 

Free Local e-Newsletter Subscription: You can also sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter that publishes and sends out the daily update to our subscription base for free.  You can sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter at www.co.douglas.or.us.  Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020. 

Douglas County COVID-19 Hotline (541) 464-6550: Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners and DPHN continue to offer a local resource hotline for Douglas County residents for COVID-19. The hotline provides answer to frequently asked questions, basic information and referrals to resources and services. The Hotline is staffed from 8:00 am to 5: pm, 7 days a week.

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Contact Tamara Howell, Public Information Officer, Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, (541) 670-2804 cell (541) 957-4896 tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us   

Contact Vanessa Becker, Public Information Officer, Douglas Public Health Network, (541) 817-6552 cell (541) 440-3571 vanessa@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org

Our local COVID-19 updates represent the coordinated effort of the agencies that make up the DCCRT

JOINT INFORMATION CENTER PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 24, 2021

DOUGLAS COUNTY COVID-19 RESPONSE TEAM - DAILY UPDATE

(Douglas County, Ore.)  Douglas County COVID-19 Test Results:  As of 12:00 pm Today, Wednesday, February 24, 2021, there are TWENTY-SEVEN (27) people with new positive test results and TWO (2) deaths to report since our noon case update yesterday.  The total number of cases (people with positive test results and presumptives) in Douglas County is now at 2,417.  Currently, there are SIXTEEN (16) Douglas County COVID-19 patients that are being hospitalized, twelve locally and four out-of-the-area. Our Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, under the direction of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, continue to devote all resources available to our local COVID response.

Two More COVID-19 Related Deaths of Douglas County Residents

Our Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, has confirmed the deaths of two more Douglas County residents related to the COVID-19 virus. Our fifty-second death is a 74-year-old woman who was diagnosed with COVID-19 on Monday, February 1, 2021 and passed away on Wednesday, February 17, 2021. Our fifty-third death is a 71-year-old woman who was diagnosed with COVID-19 on Monday, February 8, 2021 and passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2021. In the interest of privacy for the loved ones of these residents, no additional information will be released.  Each death related to COVID-19 is painful for all Douglas County residents, and a sad reminder of the terrible impact COVID-19 has had in our local communities. The Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Dr. Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT team extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathies to all family members, friends, relatives, co-workers and community members of those who have passed after contracting this deadly virus.

Local Contacts and Cases Being Supported in Isolation and Quarantine

Currently, DPHN is supporting 275 cases in isolation, as well as another 567 contacts in quarantine in Douglas County. Isolation is recommended for confirmed and presumptive cases, quarantine is recommended for contacts of confirmed or presumptive cases.  Currently, staff is supporting an astounding 842 total contacts and cases in isolation or quarantine.  This number represents a snapshot of the significant amount of work being done locally to help control the spread of COVID.

Our daily update includes the total number of cases in Douglas County, which combines people with positive test results and presumptives, as well as a breakout of those case numbers. There will be times when a presumptive will move to a positive test result, and our total case number will not change because the case has already been counted. On Thursday, February 11, 2021, we removed the vaccination distribution row from our daily COVID chart, and instead we will be providing a vaccine tally once a week on Fridays, of the vaccines received by our local public health, and then deployed to local vaccinators. Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government.

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

According to the State of Oregon/OHA’s vaccination eligibility plan, as of today, Wednesday, February 24, 2021, residents in the following categories are eligible to make an appointment for the COVID-19 Vaccine:

• Phase 1-A, Groups 1-4: All health care facilities, providers and workers; first responders; EMS, skilled, long term and memory care facilities; correctional facility workers; tribal health programs; VA workers and qualifying Veterans; caregivers of medically fragile individuals who live at home; age-eligible individuals with a medical condition or disability who receive services in their homes.
• Phase 1-B, Group 1: Child care providers, early learning and K-12 educators and staff. 
• Phase 1-B, Group 2: Residents 80-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 3: Residents 75-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 4: Residents 70-years-of-age or older

Now Eligible: Phase 1-B, Group 4: Seniors 70 And Older

According to the State, as of Monday, February 22, 2021, the next group of seniors, residents who are aged 70-years-old and older (Phase 1-B, Group 4), are now eligible to call and schedule an appointment with their local health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facilities who are signed up to be vaccinators in Douglas County.   As a reminder, we ask that you please be patient and gracious with the staff at DPHN, our vaccinators and health care partners, as they are doing the best they can to schedule appointments based on the supply of COVID-19 vaccine that has been sent to Douglas County.

I am Eligible, How Do I Sign Up to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Our local public health continue to follow the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) eligibility guidelines, and are ONLY scheduling appointments for residents that are listed on OHA’s list of currently eligible groups at this time.  Douglas County, DPHN or your Doctor’s Office did not set the guidelines for who is eligible to get the vaccine.  For more information, on how the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) set up their COVID vaccine guidelines, please contact them directly.  As a reminder, eligibility dates and vaccine availability are always subject to change, and eligibility does not mean availability.  Please, if you are not in an eligible vaccine group right now, we ask that you continue to be patient, and wait to call, email or try to set up an appointment until after your age or eligibility group becomes eligible.     

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-A, GROUPS 1-4

Are you in a Phase 1-A eligibility group, but have not got the vaccine yet?  For those residents who are included in Phase 1-A, but have not received the COVID vaccine, please send an e-mail to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org and DPHN will connect you with a local vaccine provider. Please only send a request to get a vaccine to this email if you are Phase 1-A eligible.  

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 1

For those residents in Phase 1-B, Group 1: educators, childcare and early education workers, who were eligible as of January 25, 2021, you should have already received two emails about your eligibility from DPHN or Douglas ESD.  If you are in that group and still want a vaccine, please send an email to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org">educatorvaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org.  If you did not receive an e-mail, please contact your employer.

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 2, 3 & 4: SENIORS 70 AND OLDER

Are you 70-years-of-age or older?  Then, you are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.  As of Monday, February 22, 2021, residents 70-years-of-age and older became eligible to schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Eligible seniors are asked to call and set up an appointment with their health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facility on our current local vaccinators list.  On Friday, February 5, 2021, we published the Douglas County Senior Population COVID Vaccination Plan, complete with a list of local health care agencies that have signed up vaccinate residents. Click here to review and find out more information about Douglas County's Senior Population Plan.  Our plan for Senior COVID-19 Vaccinations in Douglas County is to have eligible seniors get their COVID vaccine where they get their regular health care or flu vaccine.  As a reminder, because the COVID vaccines have very specific handling constraints, all providers offering to vaccinate eligible residents will be administering vaccines with a scheduled appointment only.  Doctor’s offices, medical facilities, Urgent Care Clinics and Pharmacy’s will not and cannot do walk-in appointments. 

Our current list of local vaccinators includes:

Albertsons- Edenbower

Albertsons- Stephens

Angela Jones, MD

Umpqua Valley Internists

Aviva Health - Glide

Aviva Health - Myrtle Creek

Aviva Health - North County

Aviva Health - Roseburg

Aviva Health - Roseburg SBHC

Aviva Health - Sutherlin

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 609

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 652

Bi-Mart Pharmacy 676

Canyonville Health & Urgent Care

Christine Seals

Confederated Tribes Coos, Lower Umpqua, Siuslaw Indians

Costco Pharmacy

Current Orthodontics

Douglas County Fire District 2

Evergreen Family Medicine

Evergreen Family Medicine Harvard Campus

Evergreen Family Medicine South

Excellence in Women’s Healthcare

Family Tree Medical Clinic

Fred Meyer Pharmacy 281

Genoa Healthcare Pharmacy - Roseburg

Gerald A Jaworski, Md, PC

Glendale Ambulance District

Gordons Pharmacy

Kidsdocs, PC

Lower Umpqua Hospital

Mercy Medical Center - Roseburg

North River Pediatrics PC

Nova Health - Goetz

Nova Health - Roseburg

One Peak Medical Clinic - Roseburg

Southriver Community Health Center

Steelhead Oncology

Two Rivers Integrative Medicine LLC

Umpqua Health - Newton Creek

Umpqua Valley Ambulance

Valley Ridge Family Medicine

Please note that there are many more residents and seniors who need and want vaccine than there are available doses.  Vaccine supply is beyond our control, but we continue to submit requests and strive to get as much vaccine sent to Douglas County as possible. Over a period of 5 weeks, about 30,000 Douglas County seniors will become eligible for the vaccine, but we expect to only receive a small fraction of the doses needed to vaccinate them.  Even though a medical facility or office is listed as a vaccinator, does not guarantee they will have vaccine; they are organizations that have signed up to help vaccinate.  We ask for your patience as we work with the State and OHA to acquire more vaccines. 

LOCAL TRIBAL HEALTH VACCINE PROGRAMS

Are you a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians?  If you are a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians, please contact them for information on their COVID-19 testing and vaccination programs at (541) 672-9405 or log onto: https://www.cowcreek-nsn.gov/public-health/.  Tribal Health Care Programs receive their vaccines directly from the Federal Government, and not through our local public health allocation from the State.

VA WORKERS AND ELIGIBLE U.S. MILITARY VETERANS

If you are a U.S. Military Veteran, you might be eligible to get vaccinated at the Roseburg VAMC.  The Roseburg VA Health Care System is setting up appointments for specific groups of veteran patients to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.  To qualify for the current round of COVID-19 vaccinations at the Roseburg VAMC, veterans must be 75 or older, or be homeless, or be a frontline essential worker, hemodialysis or organ transplant patient, or a chemotherapy patient receiving care at a clinic or hospital.  Also, note that according to the vaccine criteria established by the Federal Government and the CDC, at this time, spouses of veterans are not included on the list of eligible persons to get a COVID-19 vaccine from the Roseburg VAMC.  However, there is one exception that we have found, a Veteran’s Care Provider, who is being paid by the VA under the new Family Caregiver Assistance program might be eligible.  Anyone interested in applying for that program or to find out about veteran vaccine eligibility needs to contact Roseburg VAMC directly.  The Douglas County Veterans Service Office at the county does not have the authority or ability to get vaccines for veterans or their spouses.  VA Health Care Systems receive their vaccine directly from the Federal Government and not through our local public health allocation from the State.  For more information, call the Roseburg VAMC at (541) 440-1000 or log onto: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.

WHAT IF I AM NOT ON THE OHA ELIGIBLE LIST RIGHT NOW?

As we have mentioned before, if you are not specifically listed on one of OHA’s published eligible vaccine groups, then you are not eligible to get or sign up for the vaccine yet.  We ask that you please be patient and wait until you are eligible to contact your doctor, health care provider, DPHN, Douglas County, local hospitals and our hotline.  Again, just because you will be in an upcoming eligibility group does not mean we have vaccines available for you, or that we know when we might receive vaccines for your group.

UPDATE: COVID-19 Vaccine Availability and Allocation Information

Your Local Public Health Administrator and Douglas County Public Health Official, along with DPHN and our local health care partners have been working hard to acquire more vaccines and vaccinate those that want the vaccine, that are eligible.

We are finally seeing some hope on the horizon with our vaccine allocation from the State.  Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, our Douglas County Public Health Officer, has been an absolute stalwart advocate for the county and a burr in the State’s saddle for making the vaccine distribution equitable to Douglas County compared with the rest of the State. 

            “Previously, Douglas County had been left behind in getting our fair share of COVID-19 vaccine doses from the state, compared with other counties.  But, now it appears that Douglas County is moving towards a more equitable distribution of vaccines from the State.  At this time, I believe vaccine distribution has been normalized in Oregon, and Douglas County should be getting a reasonable and fair share of doses, which properly reflects the number of residents and seniors in our population.  Douglas County expects to get 2,500 new doses each week for the next 6 weeks, plus second doses to match doses from 4 weeks earlier from the State.  While it is great that we have so many willing local vaccinators, but it has been frustrating not to have enough vaccines to distribute.  Our efforts with the state have paid off with their recent allocation formula change,” commented Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer. 

As a reminder, in addition to the first dose vaccines that we receive from the State of Oregon, we also receive our allotment of second doses of the vaccine, which are paired with the first dose for each resident, and are not counted in our cumulative total of vaccines that we have received, because they are the match doses for the first dose.  Please note that our local cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government or their partners. 

How Do I Get My Second Dose of the COVID Vaccine?  

For those residents who have already received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, here are a few answers to questions about your second and final dose.

• At the present moment, we are told that those who get vaccinated can expect a second dose about 4-6 weeks after the first dose. Currently, the State/OHA and the Federal Government are considerably behind on sending the second dose of the vaccine out.
• You should have received a vaccination card when you received your first dose that details the brand of vaccine, its lot number, and the date the vaccine was given.   This card is for your records only, and is not official proof that you have received the vaccine. Proof of your vaccination rests with the State Alert System, which is accessible by medical facilities.
• You should get your second dose from the same provider or organization from which you received your first. However, the physical address where you receive the second dose may change.
• You will be notified by the provider or organization that gave you your first dose about where and when you’ll receive your second dose.
• I got a first vaccine out of the area, can I get my second vaccine in Douglas County?  The second vaccine dose is “paired” to the first dose, and your second dose will be sent to wherever you got your first dose.  So, except in rare circumstances, you will need to return to where you got your first dose.
• If you have questions, please contact the provider or organization where you received your first dose.

Please Keep You and Your Family Safe

We are not able to predict when we will receive more vaccines, or when State guidelines might change or when we can start to resume some sort of normality in our lives, but, we can continue encourage everyone, for the sake of our local businesses, services and residents, to gauge your risk level, and make the best choice in order protect yourself and those around you from contracting or spreading the coronavirus.  We have provided education on the widely proven COVID-19 safety measures, and encourage you to limit your contact with others not from your household, stay home if you are sick, and wear face coverings where recommended.  Click here, for a graphic on how to protect you and your family from the spread of COVID-19.  We know how important family, businesses and faith are to you, so we ask that you consider all options available in order to eliminate and minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus in our communities to help protect the ones you love, the businesses you love and the places you love to go.

Local COVID-19 Testing and Facebook Live

Douglas County COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Clinics

Due to widely available COVID-19 testing opportunities in Douglas County, your local public health authority and DPHN have decided to step-back our drive-through testing clinics to one day a week for the time being.  If needs increase, we are prepared to increase testing to 2-3 times a week again.  As we have reported before, we were one of the first counties in the state to do a drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic, and we have done 2-3 clinics a week since March 2020 in Roseburg, as well as drive-through testing clinics in Reedsport.  DPHN has also been part of increasing the availability and types of testing at multiple sites and locations across the county, also leading the state in rapid testing availability.  The next drive-through testing clinic will be Friday, February 26, 2021, in Roseburg.   As a reminder, if you are having symptoms of COVID-19 including cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains, diarrhea, sore throat or decreased sense of smell and taste, talk to your health care provider about being tested for COVID-19.  Patients without a Primary Care Provider that are looking for a COVID-19 test can contact the Sutherlin Aviva Health Clinic at (541) 459-3788. 

Facebook Live with Dr. Bob

Join us Friday, February 26, 2021 at 4:00 pm for the next Facebook Live with Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, the Douglas County Public Health Officer. The show is hosted by DPHN on the DPHN Facebook page.  Please submit your questions during the live show or you can email questions to: ookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org">Facebookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org.  Dr. Bob and the DPHN team will do their best to respond to as many questions as they can during the live shows.

State and Federal COVID-19 Info

Again, it is important to note that we are not the ones setting the guidelines for vaccine eligibility or availability. We are following the current priority group guidelines and criteria set by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).  Go online or contact the CDC or OHA directly for more information.  OHA posts it’s COVID updates and reports at www.healthoregon.org/coronavirus.  

Please do not call 911, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office or Douglas County Offices to report compliance issues with the State of Oregon, OHA or Governor’s orders. The Governor has directed the State offices for Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) to be the enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring restaurants, bars, and other businesses comply with the current State COVID guidelines.  If you have concerns, questions or wish to report compliance issues contact these state agencies directly:  OSHA: (800) 922-2689 or OSHA website or OLCC (503) 872-5000 or OLCC website

Local COVID-19 Resources

Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020.  

Local Online Access to Updates: Stay up to date with accurate and local COVID-19 information in Douglas County on the Douglas County Government website or DCGOV Facebook page or the DPHN website or DPHN Facebook page. 

Free Local e-Newsletter Subscription: You can also sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter that publishes and sends out the daily update to our subscription base for free.  You can sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter at www.co.douglas.or.us.  Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020. 

Douglas County COVID-19 Hotline (541) 464-6550: Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners and DPHN continue to offer a local resource hotline for Douglas County residents for COVID-19. The hotline provides answer to frequently asked questions, basic information and referrals to resources and services. The Hotline is staffed from 8:00 am to 5: pm, 7 days a week.

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Contact Tamara Howell, Public Information Officer, Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, (541) 670-2804 cell (541) 957-4896 tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us   

Contact Vanessa Becker, Public Information Officer, Douglas Public Health Network, (541) 817-6552 cell (541) 440-3571 vanessa@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org

DOUGLAS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 23, 2021

Douglas County Commissioners Issue Statement About

Movement to State’s Extreme Level

(Douglas County, Ore.) The Douglas County Board of Commissioners are very concerned about our recent surge in COVID cases, and dismayed to learn that our case counts in the last two weeks have prompted the State of Oregon to move Douglas County from the State’s Mandated High COVID Risk Level to the State’s Mandated Extreme COVID Risk Level, thus imposing stricter guidelines on our residents and businesses.  We do painfully recognize that the impact of the State moving us to the Mandated Extreme COVID Risk Level will be felt the most by Douglas County’s small local businesses, especially our restaurants, bars and gyms, rather than by where the most recent rash of cases have been reported (i.e. our long-term care facilities, churches, schools and by residents who have chosen to host large events).  This scenario continues to illustrate the issue we have with the State’s “one-size-fits-all” approach to their COVID restriction metrics and programs. 

Now, as our county prepares to move to the State’s Mandated Extreme Risk Level beginning on Friday, February 26, 2021, your Commissioners realize that many local businesses are likely to stay open and challenge the State’s guidelines for this new risk level.  As your Commissioners always have and will continue to do, we stand with, represent and support the citizens and businesses operating in Douglas County.  We want our residents to be healthy and have access to necessary services; we want to help our businesses succeed; and we want everyone in our county to continue to move forward with social and economic stability.  While Douglas County currently has no ability to shield or protect our businesses from state sanctions, penalties and fines, we are here to help in any way we can.  We do want to encourage our local businesses to follow the appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, as well as, protect their businesses, their patrons and their ability to continue to keep their doors open.

Your Commissioners continue to be incredibly frustrated with the lack of local input being allowed at the state level, especially when determining the State’s current COVID Risk Level Program, instituted in December 2020.  The State’s new mandated program undeservedly punishes and brutally affects our local businesses ability to operate and stay financially stable during this pandemic.  Especially, when the businesses that have suffered the most during the State’s Mandated Risk Level restriction periods (our restaurants, our coffee houses, our dance studios, our senior centers, our small retail stores, our bars and our gyms), are among some of the safest places to go during the pandemic.  These businesses are required to follow some of the most stringent COVID safety and health guidelines.  For the most part, our businesses have been extremely responsible to our communities, and in following the COVID-19 guidance coming from the State. The adoption of the Oregon OSHA COVID-19 Standard in late 2020, further shows that Oregon workplaces are some of the most sanitary places for customers and employees to be. Public health officials, coupled with our local outbreak data and statistics, have stated very clearly that COVID-19 is spreading in Oregon and in Douglas County for reasons unrelated to our businesses being open.  In fact, cases at restaurants, bars and gyms accounted for only 1% of our total positive cases in the last two weeks.   Our local data for COVID cases showed that of the current 280 active COVID cases that DPHN is supporting in isolation:

• There are NO COVID outbreaks created or active at any gyms, restaurants or bars in Douglas County.
• Of those 280 active cases, we only have 4 positive cases associated with any gyms, restaurants or bars in Douglas County.
• Currently, there are no other employees at any other gyms, restaurants or bars that have active or positive cases at this time.

As we have asserted before, your Douglas County Commissioners do not support county “enforcement’ of State issued COVID guidelines.  Instead, as the local public health authority, we feel it is paramount for State of Oregon Officials to provide easy to understand, timely access to the latest information, resources and medical guidance in order to educate residents about COVID-19 that allows them to make informed, responsible decisions.  We feel that most people will do the right thing, if given the opportunity and knowledge to do so.  We cannot in good conscience, condone citing or potentially arresting people for trying to make an honest living.  While we understand the need for increased measures to slow the spread of the virus due to the recent dramatic increase in local COVID-19 cases, we do not agree with a statewide mandated approach.  Further, Douglas County Government will not enforce the mandates for these somewhat draconian rules against our citizens mandated without local consultation.  We recommend that residents contact one of the state legislators representing your district, and ask them to engage in the fight to help our local business and residents.  There are seven state legislators that represent a portion of Douglas County.  

Your Commissioners believe that there must be a better balance between the socio-economic damage being done to our businesses, and the fight to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities, while also protecting the health and wellbeing of our residents.  While we have seen a rise in COVID-19 cases, we have also seen far too many businesses close; residents lose their jobs and struggle to get assistance to pay their bills; seniors continuing to live in isolation and anguish; and far too many families and children suffering with financial, mental and educational woes.  We are fearful that with the movement to the State’s Extreme Rick Level that there will be many more unintended consequences for our residents.  

As your Douglas County Commissioners, we still believe, as we always have, that if the citizens of Douglas County are provided with the proper information on how to make their own choices about what are best for them and their fellow citizens, that, most will choose to do so. 

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Contact Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist (PIO)

(541) 670-2804 cell - (541) 957-4896 office - tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us

Our local COVID-19 updates represent the coordinated effort of the agencies that make up the DCCRT

JOINT INFORMATION CENTER PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 23, 2021

DOUGLAS COUNTY COVID-19 RESPONSE TEAM - DAILY UPDATE

(Douglas County, Ore.)  Sadly, our COVID case counts continue to rise, as once again we have over 30 new positive cases today.  Douglas County COVID-19 Test Results:  As of 12:00 pm Today, Tuesday, February 23, 2021, there are THIRTY-FOUR (34) people with new positive test results and ONE (1) presumptive that has moved to a positive, with a positive test result, to report since our noon case update yesterday.  The total number of cases (people with positive test results and presumptives) in Douglas County is now at 2,390.  Currently, there are NINETEEN (19) Douglas County COVID-19 patients that are being hospitalized, fifteen locally and four out-of-the-area. Our Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, under the direction of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, continue to devote all resources available to our local COVID response.

Local Contacts and Cases Being Supported in Isolation and Quarantine

Currently, DPHN is supporting 277 cases in isolation, as well as another 486 contacts in quarantine in Douglas County. Isolation is recommended for confirmed and presumptive cases, quarantine is recommended for contacts of confirmed or presumptive cases.  Currently, staff is supporting an astounding 763 total contacts and cases in isolation or quarantine.  This number represents a snapshot of the significant amount of work being done locally to help control the spread of COVID.

Our daily update includes the total number of cases in Douglas County, which combines people with positive test results and presumptives, as well as a breakout of those case numbers. There will be times when a presumptive will move to a positive test result, and our total case number will not change because the case has already been counted. On Thursday, February 11, 2021, we removed the vaccination distribution row from our daily COVID chart, and instead we will be providing a vaccine tally once a week on Fridays, of the vaccines received by our local public health, and then deployed to local vaccinators. Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government.

Small Business Administration Accepting More PPP Applications

Shared from the SBA. Starting tomorrow, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 and running until March 9, 2021, the Small Business Administration (SBA) will process Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications exclusively from businesses and nonprofits with fewer than 20 employees. SBA has made some recent changes to the PPP program, which is a major step towards promoting equitable relief, supporting not only our nation’s smallest businesses and nonprofits, but also minority-owned small businesses that may have previously missed out on accessing emergency funds during the pandemic. 

Eligible small businesses and nonprofits, particularly those unable to access PPP with a traditional bank or credit union are encouraged to take advantage of the two-week application period! If you think your small business or nonprofit may be eligible for an initial PPP loan or a second draw loan Congress authorized at the end of 2020, now is the best time to contact a lender and find out how much relief may be available. Learn more at SBA.gov and the updated guidance here.  Eligible small businesses and non-profits can apply for the Paycheck Protection Program by downloading the First Draw PPP loan application or Second Draw PPP loan application and working with a participating PPP lender through the SBA Lender Match tool.

This two-week window is a huge opportunity for small businesses and nonprofits, especially those who have been hit the hardest due to COVID-19 and the Oregon wildfires. Again, if your organization has fewer than 20 employees, now is the time to apply for a PPP loan!

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

According to the State of Oregon/OHA’s vaccination eligibility plan, as of today, Tuesday, February 23, 2021, residents in the following categories are eligible to make an appointment for the COVID-19 Vaccine:

• Phase 1-A, Groups 1-4: All health care facilities, providers and workers; first responders; EMS, skilled, long term and memory care facilities; correctional facility workers; tribal health programs; VA workers and qualifying Veterans; caregivers of medically fragile individuals who live at home; age-eligible individuals with a medical condition or disability who receive services in their homes.
• Phase 1-B, Group 1: Child care providers, early learning and K-12 educators and staff. 
• Phase 1-B, Group 2: Residents 80-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 3: Residents 75-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 4: Residents 70-years-of-age or older

Now Eligible: Phase 1-B, Group 4: Seniors 70 And Older

According to the State, on February 22, 2021, the next group of seniors, residents who are ages 70-years-old and older (Phase 1-B, Group 4), became eligible to call and schedule an appointment with their local health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facilities who are signed up to be vaccinators in Douglas County.   As a reminder, we ask that you please be patient and gracious with the staff at DPHN, our vaccinators and health care partners, as they are doing the best they can to schedule appointments based on the supply of COVID-19 vaccine that has been sent to Douglas County. 

I am Eligible, How Do I Sign Up to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Our local public health continue to follow the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) eligibility guidelines, and are ONLY scheduling appointments for residents that are listed on OHA’s list of currently eligible groups at this time.  Douglas County, DPHN or your Doctor’s Office did not set the guidelines for who is eligible to get the vaccine.  For more information, on how the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) set up their COVID vaccine guidelines, please contact them directly.  As a reminder, eligibility dates and vaccine availability are always subject to change, and eligibility does not mean availability.  Please, if you are not in an eligible vaccine group right now, we ask that you continue to be patient, and wait to call, email or try to set up an appointment until after your age or eligibility group becomes eligible.     

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-A, GROUPS 1-4

Are you in a Phase 1-A eligibility group, but have not got the vaccine yet?  For those residents who are included in Phase 1-A, but have not received the COVID vaccine, please send an e-mail to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org and DPHN will connect you with a local vaccine provider. Please only send a request to get a vaccine to this email if you are Phase 1-A eligible.  

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 1

For those residents in Phase 1-B, Group 1: educators, childcare and early education workers, who were eligible as of January 25, 2021, you should have already received two emails about your eligibility from DPHN or Douglas ESD.  If you are in that group and still want a vaccine, please send an email to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org">educatorvaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org.  If you did not receive an e-mail, please contact your employer.

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 2, 3 & 4: SENIORS 70 AND OLDER

Are you 70-years-of-age or older?  Then, you are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.  As of today, Monday, February 22, 2021, residents 70-years-of-age and older became eligible to schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Eligible seniors are asked to call and set up an appointment with their health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facility on our current local vaccinators list.  On Friday, February 5, 2021, we published the Douglas County Senior Population COVID Vaccination Plan, complete with a list of local health care agencies that have signed up vaccinate residents. Click here to review and find out more information about Douglas County's Senior Population Plan.  Our plan for Senior COVID-19 Vaccinations in Douglas County is to have eligible seniors get their COVID vaccine where they get their regular health care or flu vaccine.  As a reminder, because the COVID vaccines have very specific handling constraints, all providers offering to vaccinate eligible residents will be administering vaccines with a scheduled appointment only.  Doctor’s offices, medical facilities, Urgent Care Clinics and Pharmacy’s will not and cannot do walk-in appointments. 

Please note that there are many more residents and seniors who need and want vaccine than there are available doses.  Vaccine supply is beyond our control, but we continue to submit requests and strive to get as much vaccine sent to Douglas County as possible. Over a period of 5 weeks, about 30,000 Douglas County seniors will become eligible for the vaccine, but we expect to only receive a small fraction of the doses needed to vaccinate them.  Even though a medical facility or office is listed as a vaccinator, does not guarantee they will have vaccine; they are organizations that have signed up to help vaccinate.  We ask for your patience as we work with the State and OHA to acquire more vaccines. 

LOCAL TRIBAL HEALTH VACCINE PROGRAMS

Are you a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians?  If you are a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians, please contact them for information on their COVID-19 testing and vaccination programs at (541) 672-9405 or log onto: https://www.cowcreek-nsn.gov/public-health/.  Tribal Health Care Programs receive their vaccines directly from the Federal Government, and not through our local public health allocation from the State.

VA WORKERS AND ELIGIBLE U.S. MILITARY VETERANS

If you are a U.S. Military Veteran, you might be eligible to get vaccinated at the Roseburg VAMC.  The Roseburg VA Health Care System is setting up appointments for specific groups of veteran patients to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.  To qualify for the current round of COVID-19 vaccinations at the Roseburg VAMC, veterans must be 75 or older, or be homeless, or be a frontline essential worker, hemodialysis or organ transplant patient, or a chemotherapy patient receiving care at a clinic or hospital.  Also, note that according to the vaccine criteria established by the Federal Government and the CDC, at this time, spouses of veterans are not included on the list of eligible persons to get a COVID-19 vaccine from the Roseburg VAMC.  However, there is one exception that we have found, a Veteran’s Care Provider, who is being paid by the VA under the new Family Caregiver Assistance program might be eligible.  Anyone interested in applying for that program or to find out about veteran vaccine eligibility needs to contact Roseburg VAMC directly.  The Douglas County Veterans Service Office at the county does not have the authority or ability to get vaccines for veterans or their spouses.  VA Health Care Systems receive their vaccine directly from the Federal Government and not through our local public health allocation from the State.  For more information, call the Roseburg VAMC at (541) 440-1000 or log onto: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.

WHAT IF I AM NOT ON THE OHA ELIGIBLE LIST RIGHT NOW?

As we have mentioned before, if you are not specifically listed on one of OHA’s published eligible vaccine groups, then you are not eligible to get or sign up for the vaccine yet.  We ask that you please be patient and wait until you are eligible to contact your doctor, health care provider, DPHN, Douglas County, local hospitals and our hotline.  Again, just because you will be in an upcoming eligibility group does not mean we have vaccines available for you, or that we know when we might receive vaccines for your group.

UPDATE: COVID-19 Vaccine Availability and Allocation Information

Your Local Public Health Administrators (LPHA), DPHN, the DCCRT, Aviva Health, Douglas ESD and our local health care partners have been working hard to acquire more vaccines and vaccinate those that want the vaccine, that are eligible.

Douglas County Local Public Health has received a total of 6,500 COVID-19 first dose vaccines from the State of Oregon to date, and has deployed all of those to local approved vaccinators throughout the county.  Unfortunately, this number is the same as last week, as Oregon’s allotment of COVID-19 vaccines did not arrive the week of February 14 from the Federal Government, because of the severe winter storms that wreaked havoc across the nation over Presidents’ Weekend and caused massive distribution delays. We are hopeful that we will receive both our allotment from the State for last week, as well as our vaccine allotment for this week soon. 

It is also important to understand that in addition to the first dose vaccines that we receive from the State of Oregon, we also receive our allotment of second doses of the vaccine, which are paired with the first dose for each resident, and are not counted in our cumulative total of vaccines that we have received, because they are the match doses for the first dose.  Please note that our local cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government or their partners. 

LIMITED VACCINE AVAILABILITY

As we mentioned before, there was an unfortunate delay with our COVID-19 Vaccine distribution last week due to the severe winter weather across the nation.  There continues to be a limited supply of vaccines being sent to Oregon from the Federal government, and we are hopeful that more vaccines will be sent to Douglas County soon.  Our biggest struggle remains the fact that even though we continue to request more vaccines, Douglas County has received a disproportionate supply of vaccines compared with the rest of the State.  We continue to send requests to the State to rectify this issue, so we can vaccinate the ever growing list of eligible residents in our county. 

How Do I Get My Second Dose of the COVID Vaccine?  

For those residents who have already received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, here are a few answers to questions about your second and final dose.

• At the present moment, we are told that those who get vaccinated can expect a second dose about 4-6 weeks after the first dose. Currently, the State/OHA and the Federal Government are considerably behind on sending the second dose of the vaccine out.
• You should have received a vaccination card when you received your first dose that details the brand of vaccine, its lot number, and the date the vaccine was given.   This card is for your records only, and is not official proof that you have received the vaccine. Proof of your vaccination rests with the State Alert System, which is accessible by medical facilities.
• You should get your second dose from the same provider or organization from which you received your first. However, the physical address where you receive the second dose may change.
• You will be notified by the provider or organization that gave you your first dose about where and when you’ll receive your second dose.
• I got a first vaccine out of the area, can I get my second vaccine in Douglas County?  The second vaccine dose is “paired” to the first dose, and your second dose will be sent to wherever you got your first dose.  So, except in rare circumstances, you will need to return to where you got your first dose.
• If you have questions, please contact the provider or organization where you received your first dose.

Please Keep You and Your Family Safe

We are not able to predict when we will receive more vaccines, or when State guidelines might change or when we can start to resume some sort of normality in our lives, but, we can continue encourage everyone, for the sake of our local businesses, services and residents, to gauge your risk level, and make the best choice in order protect yourself and those around you from contracting or spreading the coronavirus.  We have provided education on the widely proven COVID-19 safety measures, and encourage you to limit your contact with others not from your household, stay home if you are sick, and wear face coverings where recommended.  Click here, for a graphic on how to protect you and your family from the spread of COVID-19.  We know how important family, businesses and faith are to you, so we ask that you consider all options available in order to eliminate and minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus in our communities to help protect the ones you love, the businesses you love and the places you love to go.

Local COVID-19 Testing and Facebook Live

Douglas County COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Clinics

Due to widely available COVID-19 testing opportunities in Douglas County, your local public health authority and DPHN have decided to step-back our drive-through testing clinics to one day a week for the time being.  If needs increase, we are prepared to increase testing to 2-3 times a week again.  As we have reported before, we were one of the first counties in the state to do a drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic, and we have done 2-3 clinics a week since March 2020 in Roseburg, as well as drive-through testing clinics in Reedsport.  DPHN has also been part of increasing the availability and types of testing at multiple sites and locations across the county, also leading the state in rapid testing availability.  The next drive-through testing clinic will be Friday, February 26, 2021, in Roseburg.   As a reminder, if you are having symptoms of COVID-19 including cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains, diarrhea, sore throat or decreased sense of smell and taste, talk to your health care provider about being tested for COVID-19.  Patients without a Primary Care Provider that are looking for a COVID-19 test can contact the Sutherlin Aviva Health Clinic at (541) 459-3788. 

Facebook Live with Dr. Bob

Join us Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 6:00 pm for the next Facebook Live with Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, the Douglas County Public Health Officer. The show is hosted by DPHN on the DPHN Facebook page.  Please submit your questions during the live show or you can email questions to: ookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org">Facebookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org.  Dr. Bob and the DPHN team will do their best to respond to as many questions as they can during the live shows.

State and Federal COVID-19 Info

Again, it is important to note that we are not the ones setting the guidelines for vaccine eligibility or availability. We are following the current priority group guidelines and criteria set by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).  Go online or contact the CDC or OHA directly for more information.  OHA posts it’s COVID updates and reports at www.healthoregon.org/coronavirus.  

Please do not call 911, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office or Douglas County Offices to report compliance issues with the State of Oregon, OHA or Governor’s orders. The Governor has directed the State offices for Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) to be the enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring restaurants, bars, and other businesses comply with the current State COVID guidelines.  If you have concerns, questions or wish to report compliance issues contact these state agencies directly:  OSHA: (800) 922-2689 or OSHA website or OLCC (503) 872-5000 or OLCC website

Local COVID-19 Resources

Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020.  

Local Online Access to Updates: Stay up to date with accurate and local COVID-19 information in Douglas County on the Douglas County Government website or DCGOV Facebook page or the DPHN website or DPHN Facebook page. 

Free Local e-Newsletter Subscription: You can also sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter that publishes and sends out the daily update to our subscription base for free.  You can sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter at www.co.douglas.or.us.  Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020. 

Douglas County COVID-19 Hotline (541) 464-6550: Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners and DPHN continue to offer a local resource hotline for Douglas County residents for COVID-19. The hotline provides answer to frequently asked questions, basic information and referrals to resources and services. The Hotline is staffed from 8:00 am to 5: pm, 7 days a week.

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Contact Tamara Howell, Public Information Officer, Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, (541) 670-2804 cell (541) 957-4896 tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us   

Contact Vanessa Becker, Public Information Officer, Douglas Public Health Network, (541) 817-6552 cell (541) 440-3571 vanessa@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 22, 2021

Notice of Virtual Meeting

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)

Justice Reinvestment (JRI) Subcommittee

Thursday, February 25, 2021

(Roseburg, OR) The Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC), Justice Reinvestment (JRI) Subcommittee will hold its next meeting on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 12:00 pm via a virtual conference format.

Due to COVID-19, we are taking extra precautions, therefor the meeting will be conducted virtually. We will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to join the meeting via video or by phone. For information on how you can listen in on this meeting, please email the LPSCC Coordinator, Melissa McRobbie-Toll at melissa@co.douglas.or.us or call (541) 450-9768.

The meeting agenda is attached and also available at: www.co.douglas.or.us

Douglas County attempts to provide public accessibility to its services, programs and activities. If accommodation is needed to participate in this meeting, please contact (541) 450-9768 at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled meeting time.

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Contact: Melissa McRobbie-Toll

Programs & Partnerships (LPSCC) Coordinator, Douglas County

(541) 450-9768 cell - melissa@co.douglas.or.us

Our local COVID-19 updates represent the coordinated effort of the agencies that make up the DCCRT

JOINT INFORMATION CENTER PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 22, 2021

DOUGLAS COUNTY COVID-19 RESPONSE TEAM - DAILY UPDATE

(Douglas County, Ore.)  Douglas County COVID-19 Test Results:  As of 12:00 pm Today, Monday, February 22, 2021, there are NINETEEN (19) people with new positive test results and TWO (2) new presumptives to report since our noon case update yesterday.  The total number of cases (people with positive test results and presumptives) in Douglas County is now at 2,356.  Currently, there are NINETEEN (19) Douglas County COVID-19 patients that are being hospitalized, fifteen locally and four out-of-the-area. Our Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, under the direction of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, continue to devote all resources available to our local COVID response.

Local Contacts and Cases Being Supported in Isolation and Quarantine

Currently, DPHN is supporting 271 cases in isolation, as well as another 542 contacts in quarantine in Douglas County. Isolation is recommended for confirmed and presumptive cases, quarantine is recommended for contacts of confirmed or presumptive cases.  Currently, staff is supporting an astounding 813 total contacts and cases in isolation or quarantine.  This number represents a snapshot of the significant amount of work being done locally to help control the spread of COVID.

Our daily update includes the total number of cases in Douglas County, which combines people with positive test results and presumptives, as well as a breakout of those case numbers. There will be times when a presumptive will move to a positive test result, and our total case number will not change because the case has already been counted. On Thursday, February 11, 2021, we removed the vaccination distribution row from our daily COVID chart, and instead we will be providing a vaccine tally once a week on Fridays, of the vaccines received by our local public health, and then deployed to local vaccinators. Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government.

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

According to the State of Oregon/OHA’s vaccination eligibility plan, as of today, Monday, February 22, 2021, residents in the following categories are eligible to make an appointment for the COVID-19 Vaccine:

• Phase 1-A, Groups 1-4: All health care facilities, providers and workers; first responders; EMS, skilled, long term and memory care facilities; correctional facility workers; tribal health programs; VA workers and qualifying Veterans; caregivers of medically fragile individuals who live at home; age-eligible individuals with a medical condition or disability who receive services in their homes.
• Phase 1-B, Group 1: Child care providers, early learning and K-12 educators and staff. 
• Phase 1-B, Group 2: Residents 80-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 3: Residents 75-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 4: Residents 70-years-of-age or older

ELIGIBLE STARTING TODAY: PHASE 1-B, GROUP 4: SENIORS 70 AND OLDER

According to the State, starting today, February 22, 2021, the next eligible group of seniors, residents who are ages 70-years-old and older (Phase 1-B, Group 4), can begin to call to schedule an appointment with their local health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facilities who are signed up to be vaccinators in Douglas County.   As a reminder, please be patient and gracious with the staff at DPHN, our vaccinators and health care community, as they are doing the best they can to schedule appointments based on the supply of COVID-19 vaccine that has been sent to Douglas County. 

I am Eligible, How Do I Sign Up to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Our local public health continue to follow the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) eligibility guidelines, and are ONLY scheduling appointments for residents that are listed on OHA’s list of currently eligible groups at this time.  Douglas County, DPHN or your Doctor’s Office did not set the guidelines for who is eligible to get the vaccine.  For more information, on how the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) set up their COVID vaccine guidelines, please contact them directly.  As a reminder, eligibility dates and vaccine availability are always subject to change, and eligibility does not mean availability.  Please, if you are not in an eligible vaccine group right now, we ask that you continue to be patient, and wait to call, email or try to set up an appointment until after your age or eligibility group becomes eligible.     

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-A, GROUPS 1-4

Are you in a Phase 1-A eligibility group, but have not got the vaccine yet?  For those residents who are included in Phase 1-A, but have not received the COVID vaccine, please send an e-mail to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org and DPHN will connect you with a local vaccine provider. Please only send a request to get a vaccine to this email if you are Phase 1-A eligible.  

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 1

For those residents in Phase 1-B, Group 1: educators, childcare and early education workers, who were eligible as of January 25, 2021, you should have already received two emails about your eligibility from DPHN or Douglas ESD.  If you are in that group and still want a vaccine, please send an email to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org">educatorvaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org.  If you did not receive an e-mail, please contact your employer.

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 2, 3 & 4: SENIORS 70 AND OLDER

Are you 70-years-of-age or older?  Then, you are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.  As of today, Monday, February 22, 2021, residents 70-years-of-age and older became eligible to schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Eligible seniors are asked to call and set up an appointment with their health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facility on our current local vaccinators list.  On Friday, February 5, 2021, we published the Douglas County Senior Population COVID Vaccination Plan, complete with a list of local health care agencies that have signed up vaccinate residents. Click here to review and find out more information about Douglas County's Senior Population Plan.  Our plan for Senior COVID-19 Vaccinations in Douglas County is to have eligible seniors get their COVID vaccine where they get their regular health care or flu vaccine.  As a reminder, because the COVID vaccines have very specific handling constraints, all providers offering to vaccinate eligible residents will be administering vaccines with a scheduled appointment only.  Doctor’s offices, medical facilities, Urgent Care Clinics and Pharmacy’s will not and cannot do walk-in appointments. 

Please note that there are many more residents and seniors who need and want vaccine than there are available doses.  Vaccine supply is beyond our control, but we continue to submit requests and strive to get as much vaccine sent to Douglas County as possible. Over a period of 5 weeks, about 30,000 Douglas County seniors will become eligible for the vaccine, but we expect to only receive a small fraction of the doses needed to vaccinate them.  Even though a medical facility or office is listed as a vaccinator, does not guarantee they will have vaccine; they are organizations that have signed up to help vaccinate.  We ask for your patience as we work with the State and OHA to acquire more vaccines. 

LOCAL TRIBAL HEALTH VACCINE PROGRAMS

Are you a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians?  If you are a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians, please contact them for information on their COVID-19 testing and vaccination programs at (541) 672-9405 or log onto: https://www.cowcreek-nsn.gov/public-health/.  Tribal Health Care Programs receive their vaccines directly from the Federal Government, and not through our local public health allocation from the State.

VA WORKERS AND ELIGIBLE U.S. MILITARY VETERANS

If you are a U.S. Military Veteran, you might be eligible to get vaccinated at the Roseburg VAMC.  The Roseburg VA Health Care System is setting up appointments for specific groups of veteran patients to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.  To qualify for the current round of COVID-19 vaccinations at the Roseburg VAMC, veterans must be 75 or older, or be homeless, or be a frontline essential worker, hemodialysis or organ transplant patient, or a chemotherapy patient receiving care at a clinic or hospital.  Also, note that according to the vaccine criteria established by the Federal Government and the CDC, at this time, spouses of veterans are not included on the list of eligible persons to get a COVID-19 vaccine from the Roseburg VAMC.  However, there is one exception that we have found, a Veteran’s Care Provider, who is being paid by the VA under the new Family Caregiver Assistance program might be eligible.  Anyone interested in applying for that program or to find out about veteran vaccine eligibility needs to contact Roseburg VAMC directly.  The Douglas County Veterans Service Office at the county does not have the authority or ability to get vaccines for veterans or their spouses.  VA Health Care Systems receive their vaccine directly from the Federal Government and not through our local public health allocation from the State.  For more information, call the Roseburg VAMC at (541) 440-1000 or log onto: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.

WHAT IF I AM NOT ON THE OHA ELIGIBLE LIST RIGHT NOW?

As we have mentioned before, if you are not specifically listed on one of OHA’s published eligible vaccine groups, then you are not eligible to get or sign up for the vaccine yet.  We ask that you please be patient and wait until you are eligible to contact your doctor, health care provider, DPHN, Douglas County, local hospitals and our hotline.  Again, just because you will be in an upcoming eligibility group does not mean we have vaccines available for you, or that we know when we might receive vaccines for your group.

UPDATE: COVID-19 Vaccine Availability and Allocation Information

Your Local Public Health Administrators (LPHA), DPHN, the DCCRT, Aviva Health, Douglas ESD and our local health care partners have been working hard to acquire more vaccines and vaccinate those that want the vaccine, that are eligible.

Douglas County Local Public Health has received a total of 6,500 COVID-19 first dose vaccines from the State of Oregon to date, and has deployed all of those to local approved vaccinators throughout the county.  Unfortunately, this number is the same as last week, as Oregon’s allotment of COVID-19 vaccines did not arrive the week of February 14 from the Federal Government, because of the severe winter storms that wreaked havoc across the nation over Presidents’ Weekend and caused massive distribution delays. We are hopeful that we will receive both our allotment from the State for last week, as well as our vaccine allotment for this week either today or tomorrow. 

It is also important to understand that in addition to the first dose vaccines that we receive from the State of Oregon, we also receive our allotment of second doses of the vaccine, which are paired with the first dose for each resident, and are not counted in our cumulative total of vaccines that we have received, because they are the match doses for the first dose.  Please note that our local cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government or their partners. 

LIMITED VACCINE AVAILABILITY

As we mentioned before, there was an unfortunate delay with our COVID-19 Vaccine distribution last week due to the severe winter weather across the nation.  There continues to be a limited supply of vaccines being sent to Oregon from the Federal government, and we are hopeful that more vaccines will be sent to Douglas County soon.  Our biggest struggle remains the fact that even though we continue to request more vaccines, Douglas County has received a disproportionate supply of vaccines compared with the rest of the State.  We continue to send requests to the State to rectify this issue, so we can vaccinate the ever growing list of eligible residents in our county. 

How Do I Get My Second Dose of the COVID Vaccine?  

For those residents who have already received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, here are a few answers to questions about your second and final dose.

• At the present moment, we are told that those who get vaccinated can expect a second dose about 4-6 weeks after the first dose. Currently, the State/OHA and the Federal Government are considerably behind on sending the second dose of the vaccine out.
• You should have received a vaccination card when you received your first dose that details the brand of vaccine, its lot number, and the date the vaccine was given.   This card is for your records only, and is not official proof that you have received the vaccine. Proof of your vaccination rests with the State Alert System, which is accessible by medical facilities.
• You should get your second dose from the same provider or organization from which you received your first. However, the physical address where you receive the second dose may change.
• You will be notified by the provider or organization that gave you your first dose about where and when you’ll receive your second dose.
• I got a first vaccine out of the area, can I get my second vaccine in Douglas County?  The second vaccine dose is “paired” to the first dose, and your second dose will be sent to wherever you got your first dose.  So, except in rare circumstances, you will need to return to where you got your first dose.
• If you have questions, please contact the provider or organization where you received your first dose.

Douglas ESD and Aviva Health Team Up Again to Offer Second Doses of The COVID-19 Vaccine

Aviva Health and Douglas ESD partnered to offer another invite-only mass vaccine event on Saturday, February 20, 2021, at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. Cooperative health care and community organizations provided 710 second-dose COVID-19 vaccines to individuals who fell within Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) Phase 1-A vaccine prioritization schedule and received their first dose at Aviva Health’s mass vaccination event on January 23, 2021.  This event comes on the heels of a Thursday vaccination effort when close to 80 Douglas County seniors received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.  More than 120 Aviva Health and Douglas ESD staff along with several community volunteers helped make the fifth mass vaccine clinic event a success. Use of the county fairgrounds – a critical element to the success of events this size – was made possible by the support of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners.

“These second-dose vaccinations are important to ensure our community members are fully protected from COVID-19, and we’re grateful to again partner with Douglas ESD to bring this service to Douglas County,” says KC Bolton, CEO of Aviva Health. “It’s our hope these large-scale vaccination events will soon allow us to begin transitioning our vaccination strategy to an in-clinic mode.”

“As COVID-19 continues to impact our community, the partnership between Douglas ESD and Aviva Health continues to ensure that vaccinations are administered in a timely, caring and efficient manner,” says Michael Lasher, Douglas ESD superintendent. “The success of the mass vaccine events remains tied to the compassion and professionalism displayed by our respective employees and volunteers, including Douglas County Fairgrounds staff.”

Since it began holding mass vaccine clinics, Aviva Health, a member of the Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team (DCCRT), and a designated local COVID-19 vaccinator, continues to help lead the effort to vaccinate community members with the COVID-19 vaccine. The organization has put nearly 2,900 vaccinations in the arms of citizens of Douglas County. And, they anticipate that number to continue to grow in the coming days, weeks and months.

Public health experts say the vaccine, in combination with other sensible safety measures like masking, social distancing and handwashing, offers the best protection from COVID-19 and continued community spread.  Aviva Health and Douglas ESD are planning to offer additional opportunities for community members to receive COVID-19 vaccines. The latest eligibility list published by OHA is available at https://covidvaccine.oregon.gov/.  Aviva Health has also created an FAQ online blog to answer questions related to the COVID-19 vaccine regarding availability and scheduling at https://aviva.health/covid-19-vaccine-faqs/.

Please Keep You and Your Family Safe

We are not able to predict when we will receive more vaccines, or when State guidelines might change or when we can start to resume some sort of normality in our lives, but, we can continue encourage everyone, for the sake of our local businesses, services and residents, to gauge your risk level, and make the best choice in order protect yourself and those around you from contracting or spreading the coronavirus.  We have provided education on the widely proven COVID-19 safety measures, and encourage you to limit your contact with others not from your household, stay home if you are sick, and wear face coverings where recommended.  Click here, for a graphic on how to protect you and your family from the spread of COVID-19.  We know how important family, businesses and faith are to you, so we ask that you consider all options available in order to eliminate and minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus in our communities to help protect the ones you love, the businesses you love and the places you love to go.

Local COVID-19 Testing and Facebook Live

Douglas County COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Clinics

Due to widely available COVID-19 testing opportunities in Douglas County, your local public health authority and DPHN have decided to step-back our drive-through testing clinics to one day a week for the time being.  If needs increase, we are prepared to increase testing to 2-3 times a week again.  As we have reported before, we were one of the first counties in the state to do a drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic, and we have done 2-3 clinics a week since March 2020 in Roseburg, as well as drive-through testing clinics in Reedsport.  DPHN has also been part of increasing the availability and types of testing at multiple sites and locations across the county, also leading the state in rapid testing availability.  The next drive-through testing clinic will be Friday, February 26, 2021, in Roseburg.   As a reminder, if you are having symptoms of COVID-19 including cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains, diarrhea, sore throat or decreased sense of smell and taste, talk to your health care provider about being tested for COVID-19.  Patients without a Primary Care Provider that are looking for a COVID-19 test can contact the Sutherlin Aviva Health Clinic at (541) 459-3788. 

Facebook Live with Dr. Bob

Join us Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 6:00 pm for the next Facebook Live with Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, the Douglas County Public Health Officer. The show is hosted by DPHN on the DPHN Facebook page.  Please submit your questions during the live show or you can email questions to: ookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org">Facebookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org.  Dr. Bob and the DPHN team will do their best to respond to as many questions as they can during the live shows.

State and Federal COVID-19 Info

Again, it is important to note that we are not the ones setting the guidelines for vaccine eligibility or availability. We are following the current priority group guidelines and criteria set by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).  Go online or contact the CDC or OHA directly for more information.  OHA posts it’s COVID updates and reports at www.healthoregon.org/coronavirus.  

Please do not call 911, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office or Douglas County Offices to report compliance issues with the State of Oregon, OHA or Governor’s orders. The Governor has directed the State offices for Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) to be the enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring restaurants, bars, and other businesses comply with the current State COVID guidelines.  If you have concerns, questions or wish to report compliance issues contact these state agencies directly:  OSHA: (800) 922-2689 or OSHA website or OLCC (503) 872-5000 or OLCC website

Local COVID-19 Resources

Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020.  

Local Online Access to Updates: Stay up to date with accurate and local COVID-19 information in Douglas County on the Douglas County Government website or DCGOV Facebook page or the DPHN website or DPHN Facebook page. 

Free Local e-Newsletter Subscription: You can also sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter that publishes and sends out the daily update to our subscription base for free.  You can sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter at www.co.douglas.or.us.  Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020. 

Douglas County COVID-19 Hotline (541) 464-6550: Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners and DPHN continue to offer a local resource hotline for Douglas County residents for COVID-19. The hotline provides answer to frequently asked questions, basic information and referrals to resources and services. The Hotline is staffed from 8:00 am to 5: pm, 7 days a week.

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Contact Tamara Howell, Public Information Officer, Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, (541) 670-2804 cell (541) 957-4896 tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us   

Contact Vanessa Becker, Public Information Officer, Douglas Public Health Network, (541) 817-6552 cell (541) 440-3571 vanessa@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org

Our local COVID-19 updates represent the coordinated effort of the agencies that make up the DCCRT

JOINT INFORMATION CENTER PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 21, 2021

DOUGLAS COUNTY COVID-19 RESPONSE TEAM - DAILY UPDATE

(Douglas County, Ore.)  Douglas County COVID-19 Test Results:  As of 12:00 pm Today, Sunday, February 21, 2021, there are THIRTEEN (13) people with new positive test results and ONE (1) new presumptive to report since our noon case update yesterday.  The total number of cases FIFTEEN (15) Douglas County COVID-19 patients that are being hospitalized, twelve locally and three out-of-the-area. Our Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, under the direction of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, continue to devote all resources available to our local COVID response.

Local Contacts and Cases Being Supported in Isolation and Quarantine

Currently, DPHN is supporting 282 cases in isolation, as well as another 599 contacts in quarantine in Douglas County. Isolation is recommended for confirmed and presumptive cases, quarantine is recommended for contacts of confirmed or presumptive cases.  Currently, staff is supporting an astounding 881 total contacts and cases in isolation or quarantine.  This number represents a snapshot of the significant amount of work being done locally to help control the spread of COVID.

Our daily update includes the total number of cases in Douglas County, which combines people with positive test results and presumptives, as well as a breakout of those case numbers. There will be times when a presumptive will move to a positive test result, and our total case number will not change because the case has already been counted. On Thursday, February 11, 2021, we removed the vaccination distribution row from our daily COVID chart, and instead we will be providing a vaccine tally once a week on Fridays, of the vaccines received by our local public health, and then deployed to local vaccinators. Please note that our cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government.

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

According to the State of Oregon/OHA’s vaccination eligibility plan, as of today, Sunday, February 21, 2021, residents in the following categories are eligible to make an appointment for the COVID-19 Vaccine:

• Phase 1-A, Groups 1-4: All health care facilities, providers and workers; first responders; EMS, skilled, long term and memory care facilities; correctional facility workers; tribal health programs; VA workers and qualifying Veterans; caregivers of medically fragile individuals who live at home; age-eligible individuals with a medical condition or disability who receive services in their homes.
• Phase 1-B, Group 1: Child care providers, early learning and K-12 educators and staff. 
• Phase 1-B, Group 2: Residents 80-years-of-age or older
• Phase 1-B, Group 3: Residents 75-years-of-age or older

NEXT ELIGIBLE GROUP PHASE 1-B, GROUP 4: SENIORS 70 AND OLDER

According to the State, starting tomorrow, February 22, 2021, the next eligible group of seniors, residents who are ages 70-years-old and older (Phase 1-B, Group 4), can begin to call to schedule an appointment with their local health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facility, who are signed up as vaccinators in Douglas County.   As a reminder, please be patient and gracious with our vaccinators, as they are doing the best they can to schedule appointments based on the supply of COVID-19 vaccine that they have on hand. 

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-A, GROUPS 1-4

Are you in a Phase 1-A eligibility group, but have not got the vaccine yet?  For those residents who are included in Phase 1-A, but have not received the COVID vaccine, please send an e-mail to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org and DPHN will connect you with a local vaccine provider. Please only send a request to get a vaccine to this email if you are Phase 1-A eligible.  

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 1

For those residents in Phase 1-B, Group 1: educators, childcare and early education workers, who were eligible as of January 25, 2021, you should have already received two emails about your eligibility from DPHN or Douglas ESD.  If you are in that group and still want a vaccine, please send an email to vaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org">educatorvaccines@DouglasPublicHealthNetwork.org.  If you did not receive an e-mail, please contact your employer.

ELIGIBLE PHASE 1-B, GROUP 2 & 3: SENIORS 75 AND OLDER

Are you 75-years-of-age or older?  You are eligible for the COVID vaccine.  As of Monday, February 15, 2021, residents 75-years-of-age and older became eligible to schedule an appointment to receive the COVID vaccine. Eligible seniors are asked to call and set up an appointment with their health care provider, local pharmacy or local health care facility on our current local vaccinators list.  On Friday, February 5, 2021, we published the Douglas County Senior Population COVID Vaccination Plan, complete with a list of local health care agencies that have signed up vaccinate residents. Click here to review and find out more information about Douglas County's Senior Population Plan.  Our plan for Senior COVID Vaccinations in Douglas County is to have eligible seniors get their COVID vaccine where they get their regular health care or flu vaccine.  As a reminder, because the COVID vaccines have very specific handling constraints, all providers offering to vaccinate eligible residents will be administering vaccines with a scheduled appointment only.  Doctor’s offices, medical facilities, Urgent Care Clinics and Pharmacy’s will not and cannot do walk-in appointments. 

Please note that there are many more seniors who need and want vaccine than there are available doses.  Vaccine supply is beyond our control, but we continue to submit requests and strive to get as much vaccine sent to Douglas County as possible. Over a period of 5 weeks, about 30,000 Douglas County seniors will become eligible for the vaccine, but we expect to only receive a small fraction of the doses needed to vaccinate them.  Even though a medical facility or office is listed as a vaccinator, does not guarantee they will have vaccine; they are organizations that have signed up to help vaccinate.  We ask for your patience as we work with the State and OHA to acquire more vaccines. 

TRIBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS

Are you a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians?  If you are a member of the Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians, please contact them for information on their COVID-19 testing and vaccination programs at (541) 672-9405 or log onto: https://www.cowcreek-nsn.gov/public-health/. 

VA WORKERS AND U.S. MILITARY VETERANS

If you are a U.S. Military Veteran, you might be eligible to get vaccinated at the Roseburg VAMC.  The Roseburg VA Health Care System is setting up appointments for specific groups of veteran patients to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.  To qualify for the current round of COVID-19 vaccinations at the Roseburg VAMC, veterans must be 75 or older, or be homeless, or be a frontline essential worker, hemodialysis or organ transplant patient, or a chemotherapy patient receiving care at a clinic or hospital.  Also, note that according to the vaccine criteria established by the Federal Government and the CDC, at this time, spouses of veterans are not included on the list of eligible persons to get a COVID vaccine from the Roseburg VAMC.  However, there is one exception that we have found, a Veteran’s Care provider, who is being paid by the VA under the new Family Caregiver Assistance program might be eligible.  Anyone interested in applying for that program or to find out about vaccine eligibility needs to contact Roseburg VAMC directly.  The Douglas County Veterans Service Office at the county does not have the authority or ability to get vaccines for veterans or their spouses.  For more information, call the Roseburg VAMC at (541) 440-1000 or log onto: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.

UPDATE: COVID-19 Vaccine Availability and Allocation Information

Your Local Public Health Administrators (LPHA), DPHN, the DCCRT, Aviva Health, Douglas ESD and our local health care partners have been working hard to acquire more vaccines and vaccinate those that want the vaccine, that are eligible.

Douglas County Local Public Health has received a total of 6,500 COVID-19 first dose vaccines from the State of Oregon to date, and has deployed all of those to local approved vaccinators throughout the county.  Unfortunately, this number is the same as last week, as Oregon’s allotment of COVID-19 vaccines did not arrive the week of February 14 from the Federal Government, because of a distribution delay caused by the severe winter storms that wreaked havoc across the nation over Presidents’ Weekend. We are hopeful that we will receive both our allotment from the State for this last week, as well as our vaccine allotment for this week either Monday or Tuesday this week. 

It is also important to understand that in addition to the first dose vaccines that we receive from the State of Oregon, we also receive our allotment of second doses of the vaccine, which are paired with the first dose for each resident, and are not counted in our cumulative total of vaccines that we have received, because they are the match doses for the first dose.  Please note that our local cumulative vaccine numbers do NOT include other vaccination sites like the Roseburg VA, Mercy Medical Center, EMS, Cow Creek Tribe, Pharmacies and local care facilities that have received their vaccines directly from the Federal and State Government or their partners. 

LIMITED VACCINE AVAILABILITY

As we mentioned before, there is an unfortunate delay with our COVID-19 Vaccine distribution this last week due to the severe winter weather across the nation.  There continues to be a limited supply of vaccines being sent to Oregon from the Federal government, and we are hopeful that more vaccines will be sent to Douglas County soon.  Our biggest struggle remains the fact that even though we continue to request more vaccines, Douglas County has received a disproportionate supply of vaccines compared with the rest of the State.  We continue to send requests to the State to rectify this issue, so we can vaccinate the ever growing list of eligible residents in our county. 

Local Vaccine Scheduling

Your Douglas County Public Health Administrator continues to follow the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) eligibility guidelines, and are ONLY scheduling appointments for residents that are listed on OHA’s list of currently eligible groups at this time.  As a reminder, Douglas County, DPHN or your Doctor’s Office did not set the guidelines for who is eligible to get the vaccine.  For more information, on how the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) set up their COVID vaccine guidelines, please contact them directly.  As a reminder, eligibility dates and vaccine availability are always subject to change, and eligibility does not mean availability.  Please, if you are not in an eligible vaccine group right now, we ask that you continue to be patient, and wait to call, email or try to set up an appointment until after your age or eligibility group becomes eligible.     

What if I am not on the OHA eligible list right now?

As we have mentioned several times before, if you are not a part of one of OHA’s listed eligible vaccine groups, then you are not eligible to get or sign up for the vaccine yet.  We ask that you please be patient and wait until you are eligible to contact your doctor, health care provider, DPHN, Douglas County, local hospitals and our hotline.  Again, just because you will be in an upcoming eligibility group does not mean we have vaccines available for you, or that we know when we might receive vaccines for your group.

How Do I Get My Second Dose of the COVID Vaccine?  

For those residents who have already received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, here are a few answers to questions about your second and final dose.

• At the present moment, we are told that those who get vaccinated can expect a second dose about 4-6 weeks after the first dose. Currently, the State/OHA and the Federal Government are considerably behind on sending the second dose of the vaccine out.
• You should have received a vaccination card when you received your first dose that details the brand of vaccine, its lot number, and the date the vaccine was given.   This card is for your records only, and is not official proof that you have received the vaccine. Proof of your vaccination rests with the State Alert System, which is accessible by medical facilities.
• You should get your second dose from the same provider or organization from which you received your first. However, the physical address where you receive the second dose may change.
• You will be notified by the provider or organization that gave you your first dose about where and when you’ll receive your second dose.
• I got a first vaccine out of the area, can I get my second vaccine in Douglas County?  The second vaccine dose is “paired” to the first dose, and your second dose will be sent to wherever you got your first dose.  So, except in rare circumstances, you will need to return to where you got your first dose.
• If you have questions, please contact the provider or organization where you received your first dose.

DPHN: Updated Quarantine Flyer for Schools

DPHN has updated their helpful COVID quarantine flyer to provide specific information for school cohorts about what to do if your child, a staff member or educator has been exposed to a positive COVID case while at school or during after school activities. 

If you have additional questions about COVID-19, quarantining or vaccinations, residents can call our local COVID hotline at (541) 464-6550.  You can also tune in to watch Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, our Douglas County Public Health Officer during his Facebook Live shows on the DPHN Facebook page every Tuesday and Friday nights.  The show is hosted by DPHN on the DPHN Facebook page. Or you can check out DPHN’s Top Three COVID Vaccine Questions of the Day on their website that answer questions to the latest questions we have received.  Click here to link to the DPHN website.

Please Keep You and Your Family Safe

We are not able to predict when we will receive more vaccines, or when State guidelines might change or when we can start to resume some sort of normality in our lives, but, we can continue encourage everyone, for the sake of our local businesses, services and residents, to gauge your risk level, and make the best choice in order protect yourself and those around you from contracting or spreading the coronavirus.  We have provided education on the widely proven COVID-19 safety measures, and encourage you to limit your contact with others not from your household, stay home if you are sick, and wear face coverings where recommended.  Click here, for a graphic on how to protect you and your family from the spread of COVID-19.  We know how important family, businesses and faith are to you, so we ask that you consider all options available in order to eliminate and minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus in our communities to help protect the ones you love, the businesses you love and the places you love to go.

Local COVID-19 Testing and Facebook Live

Douglas County COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Clinics

Due to widely available COVID-19 testing opportunities in Douglas County, your local public health authority and DPHN have decided to step-back our drive-through testing clinics to one day a week for the time being.  If needs increase, we are prepared to increase testing to 2-3 times a week again.  As we have reported before, we were one of the first counties in the state to do a drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic, and we have done 2-3 clinics a week since March 2020 in Roseburg, as well as drive-through testing clinics in Reedsport.  DPHN has also been part of increasing the availability and types of testing at multiple sites and locations across the county, also leading the state in rapid testing availability.  The next drive-through testing clinic will be Friday, February 26, 2021, in Roseburg.   As a reminder, if you are having symptoms of COVID-19 including cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches and pains, diarrhea, sore throat or decreased sense of smell and taste, talk to your health care provider about being tested for COVID-19.  Patients without a Primary Care Provider that are looking for a COVID-19 test can contact the Sutherlin Aviva Health Clinic at (541) 459-3788. 

Facebook Live with Dr. Bob

Join us Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 6:00 pm for the next Facebook Live with Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, the Douglas County Public Health Officer. The show is hosted by DPHN on the DPHN Facebook page.  Please submit your questions during the live show or you can email questions to: ookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org">Facebookquestions@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org.  Dr. Bob and the DPHN team will do their best to respond to as many questions as they can during the live shows.

State and Federal COVID-19 Info

Again, it is important to note that we are not the ones setting the guidelines for vaccine eligibility or availability. We are following the current priority group guidelines and criteria set by the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA).  Go online or contact the CDC or OHA directly for more information.  OHA posts it’s COVID updates and reports at www.healthoregon.org/coronavirus.  

Please do not call 911, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office or Douglas County Offices to report compliance issues with the State of Oregon, OHA or Governor’s orders. The Governor has directed the State offices for Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) to be the enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring restaurants, bars, and other businesses comply with the current State COVID guidelines.  If you have concerns, questions or wish to report compliance issues contact these state agencies directly:  OSHA: (800) 922-2689 or OSHA website or OLCC (503) 872-5000 or OLCC website

Local COVID-19 Resources

Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020.  

Local Online Access to Updates: Stay up to date with accurate and local COVID-19 information in Douglas County on the Douglas County Government website or DCGOV Facebook page or the DPHN website or DPHN Facebook page. 

Free Local e-Newsletter Subscription: You can also sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter that publishes and sends out the daily update to our subscription base for free.  You can sign up for the Douglas County e-Newsletter at www.co.douglas.or.us.  Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Dannenhoffer, DPHN and the DCCRT have been working hard to cooperatively provide accurate and timely information to Douglas County residents since March 8, 2020. 

Douglas County COVID-19 Hotline (541) 464-6550: Your Douglas County Board of Commissioners and DPHN continue to offer a local resource hotline for Douglas County residents for COVID-19. The hotline provides answer to frequently asked questions, basic information and referrals to resources and services. The Hotline is staffed from 8:00 am to 5: pm, 7 days a week.

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Contact Tamara Howell, Public Information Officer, Douglas County COVID-19 Response Team, (541) 670-2804 cell (541) 957-4896 tjhowell@co.douglas.or.us   

Contact Vanessa Becker, Public Information Officer, Douglas Public Health Network, (541) 817-6552 cell (541) 440-3571 vanessa@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org

Lane County Public Health (LCPH) was notified of at least 37 additional positive cases of COVID-19.This makes a total of  ?ten thousand two hundred and nineteen cases. Seventy thousand two hundred and fifty six vaccine doses administered.  

10,219 (+37) total cases-  Note that this includes confirmed and presumptive.

Of our cases (confirmed and presumptive): 

Hospitalized: 17

·ICU: 0 (of the 17)

Deaths: 126

Infectious: 161(-7)

Total persons fully vaccinated: 18,146 (+288)
Total persons received first dose only: 33,270 (+426)
Total doses administered: 70,256 (+1,007)

Percentage of Lane County population fully vaccinated: 4.76%

Testing: OHA is now excluding negative labs from Opera in an effort to improve performance. This includes historic negative labs. 

Data regarding Lane County testing, patient status, case ZIP codes and more is available at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/localdata

The State of Oregon has created a COVID-19 web page with resources at http://coronavirus.oregon.gov.

High Risk Individuals who had contact with these community members will be contacted by Lane County Public Health so they can work with their health care providers on next steps. Communicable disease investigations are underway. If a public contact exposure point is identified, that information will be shared with the public.

Presumptive cases are people without a positive PCR test who have COVID-19-like symptoms and had close contact with a confirmed case. Though not confirmed by a positive diagnostic test, presumptive cases have a high likelihood of having COVID-19 because of the specific nature of the symptoms and known exposure.

Lane County will become the owner of the Red Lion Hotel at 599 East Broadway in Eugene shortly after signing the closing documents on February 26, 2021. The hotel is being purchased as part of Project Turnkey and will be used to house Holiday Farm Fire survivors who are especially vulnerable to homelessness.

“The Holiday Farm Fire devastated thousands of McKenzie area residents and left them with no place to live,” said East Lane County Commissioner Heather Buch. “Project Turnkey is an important part of our housing strategy for fire survivors. While people work to recover from the loss, we can provide the most vulnerable with a safe place to sleep and connections to other services.”

The $5.5 million purchase is being paid for by state funds. 

Homes for Good will provide the day-to-day operations for the temporary lodging program starting in March 2021. Homes for Good will support participants by connecting them to their long-term housing goals. On-site operations staff will provide 24-hour service for the residents including cleaning and janitorial services. In addition, staff will work with residents to connect them to available services to get into permanent housing.

“Homes for Good has been an incredible partner,” said Buch. “They’ve really stepped up and found ways to support fire survivors through existing housing programs and by taking on this new location. We’re also thankful for the support of Oregon Community Foundation throughout the Project Turnkey application process.” 

More information about how wildfire survivors will be selected for temporary housing at the Red Lion will be available in March.

Homes for Good will also begin to develop the scope of work to convert the hotel to Permanent Supportive Housing once there is no longer a need for temporary housing.

For more information about Holiday Farm Fire recovery resources, visit www.mckenzierebuilds.org.

About Project Turnkey

The Oregon Legislature allocated a total of $65 million for Project Turnkey for the purpose of acquiring motels/hotels for use as non-congregate shelter for people experiencing homelessness or at-risk of homelessness. Two discrete funds were provided by the state: one totaling $30 million to be awarded in counties and tribal communities impacted by the 2020 wildfires; and one totaling $35 million for the remaining 28 counties in the state. Oregon Community Foundation is administering both funds through an application and selection process, with guidance from an Advisory Committee of state, local, and community stakeholders.

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Lane County Public Health (LCPH) was notified of at least 45 additional positive cases of COVID-19 and two new deaths.This makes a total of  ?ten thousand one hundred and eighty two cases. Sixty nine thousand two hundred and forty nine vaccine doses administered.  

10,182 (+45) total cases-  Note that this includes confirmed and presumptive.

Of our cases (confirmed and presumptive): 

Hospitalized: 17 (-2)

·ICU: 2 (of the 17)

Deaths: 126 (+2)

Infectious: 168 (+4)

Total persons fully vaccinated: 17,858 (+394)
Total persons received first dose only: 32,844 (+64)
Total doses administered: 69,249 (+852)

Percentage of Lane County population fully vaccinated: 4.68%

Testing: OHA is now excluding negative labs from Opera in an effort to improve performance. This includes historic negative labs. 

Data regarding Lane County testing, patient status, case ZIP codes and more is available at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/localdata

The State of Oregon has created a COVID-19 web page with resources at http://coronavirus.oregon.gov.

High Risk Individuals who had contact with these community members will be contacted by Lane County Public Health so they can work with their health care providers on next steps. Communicable disease investigations are underway. If a public contact exposure point is identified, that information will be shared with the public.

Presumptive cases are people without a positive PCR test who have COVID-19-like symptoms and had close contact with a confirmed case. Though not confirmed by a positive diagnostic test, presumptive cases have a high likelihood of having COVID-19 because of the specific nature of the symptoms and known exposure.

Lane County Public Health (LCPH) was notified of at least 39 additional positive cases of COVID-19 and one new death.This makes a total of  ?ten thousand one hundred and six cases. Sixty six thousand five hundred and eleven vaccine doses administered. 

10,106  (+39) total cases-  Note that this includes confirmed and presumptive.

Of our cases (confirmed and presumptive): 

Hospitalized: 19

·ICU: 5 (of the 19)

Deaths: 122 (+1)

Infectious: 162 (+7)

Persons Under Monitoring: 416 (-20)

Total persons fully vaccinated: 16,665 (+142)
Total persons received first dose only: 32,480 (+2,078)
Total doses administered: 66,511 (+2,367)

Percentage of Lane County population fully vaccinated: 4.36%

Testing: OHA is now excluding negative labs from Opera in an effort to improve performance. This includes historic negative labs. 

Data regarding Lane County testing, patient status, case ZIP codes and more is available at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/localdata

The State of Oregon has created a COVID-19 web page with resources at http://coronavirus.oregon.gov.

High Risk Individuals who had contact with these community members will be contacted by Lane County Public Health so they can work with their health care providers on next steps. Communicable disease investigations are underway. If a public contact exposure point is identified, that information will be shared with the public.

Presumptive cases are people without a positive PCR test who have COVID-19-like symptoms and had close contact with a confirmed case. Though not confirmed by a positive diagnostic test, presumptive cases have a high likelihood of having COVID-19 because of the specific nature of the symptoms and known exposure.

Lane County Public Health (LCPH) was notified of at least 52 additional positive cases of COVID-19 over the weekend.This makes a total of  ?ten thousand and sixty seven cases. Sixty four thousand one hundred and forty four vaccine doses administered. 

10,067 (+52)  total cases-  Note that this includes confirmed and presumptive.

Of our cases (confirmed and presumptive): 

Hospitalized: 17 (-1)

·ICU: 4 (of the 17)

Deaths: 121

Infectious: 155 (-28)

Persons Under Monitoring: 436

Total persons fully vaccinated: 16,523 (+1,104)
Total persons received first dose only: 30,402 (+651)
Total doses administered: 64,144 (+2,890)

Testing: OHA excludes negative labs from Opera in an effort to improve performance. This includes historic negative labs. 

Data regarding Lane County testing, patient status, case ZIP codes and more is available at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/localdata

The State of Oregon has created a COVID-19 web page with resources at http://coronavirus.oregon.gov.

High Risk Individuals who had contact with these community members will be contacted by Lane County Public Health so they can work with their health care providers on next steps. Communicable disease investigations are underway. If a public contact exposure point is identified, that information will be shared with the public.

Presumptive cases are people without a positive PCR test who have COVID-19-like symptoms and had close contact with a confirmed case. Though not confirmed by a positive diagnostic test, presumptive cases have a high likelihood of having COVID-19 because of the specific nature of the symptoms and known exposure.

Recognizing extraordinary efforts among educators during the pandemic, the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education will award more teachers with top honors, paying each of their rent or mortgage for a year

PORTLAND, Ore., February 23, 2021 — With the opening of nominations for the 12th annual OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Campaign, OnPoint Community Credit Union announced today the expansion of its grand prize and up to $100,000 in winnings to remarkable educators and schools. The Educator of the Year grand prize, typically awarded to two teachers each year, will go to three educators in 2021 and will pay each of their rent or mortgage for a full year. In addition to recognizing outstanding educators, the OnPoint Prize will provide five Community Builder Awards for special school projects that need financial support.

OnPoint’s nomination period opens today, February 23, and closes April 13. Click here to nominate an outstanding educator or apply for a Community Builder grant today. OnPoint will announce this year’s Community Builder awardees and Educator of the Year Finalists on May 11.

“We are always inspired by educators in our community, but the innovation and commitment we’ve seen throughout the pandemic has surpassed expectations,” said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Now more than ever, we’re called to help lift up our teachers, celebrating their efforts to educate and engage our young people through the challenges of this past year. I invite our community to nominate educators who are sparking enthusiasm and passion in students, parents and their communities.”

Since the OnPoint Prize began in 2010, OnPoint has awarded more than $470,000 in prizes to 285 local educators and schools. This year’s awards include:

• Educators of the Year
  • Grand Prize: Three teachers, one each for elementary (grades K-5), middle (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12) will have their rent or mortgage paid for one full year and $2,500 donated to their schools.
  • Finalists: Three teachers, one each for elementary (grades K-5), middle (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12) will receive a $5,000 cash award and a $1,500 donation to their schools.
• Community Builder Awards
  • One school, selected by community votes, will receive $5,000.
  • Four schools will receive $2,000 for a special project that will positively impact their school or community.

2020 Prize Winners Reflect on Their Awards

Carolyn Biskupic Knight, a 4th-grade teacher at Sato Elementary in the Beaverton School District, and Kerryn Henderson, AP Biology and AVID teacher at Parkrose High School in the Parkrose School District, were named OnPoint’s 2020 Educators of the Year.  

Biskupic Knight, the K-5 Educator of the Year for 2020, is a nationally-recognized leader in science education whose teaching model has been adopted across her district, the state of Oregon, and the nation. With more than 40 years of experience in the classroom, she fosters student engagement by giving them tools to explore and observe the world around them, work effectively with others, and communicate their experiences. Biskupic-Knight has evolved her teaching model to be effective throughout remote learning while also dealing with significant personal challenges. She’s caring for her husband, who has early-onset Alzheimer’s.

“OnPoint’s financial support has been a huge relief as I navigate not only the challenges of COVID-19, but also ensuring care for my husband,” said Biskupic Knight. “I cannot thank OnPoint enough for what they’ve done for my family and the entire education community. The OnPoint Prize brings much-needed recognition to the hard and outstanding work of my colleagues and our profession, especially when we’re doing more than ever before to engage our students under unusual circumstances.”

Henderson, the 9-12 Educator of the Year for 2020, has also developed novel approaches to teaching. Henderson helps her Biology students explore concepts through simulation, games, modeling, role-play and even songwriting. She is also an AVID teacher (Advancement Via Individual Determination), which means she has special training for developing future first-generation college students and closing the opportunity gap.

In 2020, OnPoint also gave out five Community Builder Awards to schools that needed funding to complete special projects. The $5,000 grand prize, selected by community votes, went to Grout Elementary in Southeast Portland. The award is helping fund repairs to the school’s track-and-field facilities, where uneven soil and bare surfaces caused more than 35 injuries in 2019. Even though Grout students are not currently attending school on campus, volunteers with the Grout Grounds Improvement Project have re-seeded and flattened the field’s surface, making significant headway in creating a safe place for play.

“On behalf of the Grout Parent Teacher Association, I want to thank OnPoint for the Community Builders 2020 award,” said Julie Bolstad, President of the Grout Parent Teacher Association and parent of three students at Grout Elementary School. “The field is safer not just for our students, but also for the entire community. We have seen reduced vandalism and increased community usage throughout the pandemic. The dedication of our PTA, volunteers and students, with financial support from OnPoint, has truly made a difference for Grout Elementary.”

The Community Builder Award recognizes projects that inspire creativity, foster community, demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and reach a broad segment of the school community. The four additional school projects that received $2,000 awards last year include Atkinson Elementary’s Gardening and Cultural Cooking Project, Clear Creek Middle School’s Tomorrow Bus Project, Sandy High School’s Pioneer Digital Media Sports Broadcasting program, and Sifton Elementary’s After School Club.

About the Nomination Process

Information about the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education and nomination forms are now available at www.onpointprize.com. Anyone can nominate an educator, and educators may also nominate themselves. Applicants must be a full-time or job-share classroom teacher, counselor, or librarian for grades K-12 in an accredited public, private, or charter school located within any county that OnPoint serves. OnPoint also accepts applications for the Community Builders Awards within those same counties. For information about the campaign, additional qualifications and contest rules, please visit www.onpointprize.com.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 420,000 members and with assets of $7.9 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler, and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

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Umpqua Bank Hires Dave Ericksen to Build Upper Middle Market Banking Team

PORTLAND, Ore. (February 22, 2021)—Umpqua Bank, a subsidiary of Umpqua Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: UMPQ), announced today the addition of Dave Ericksen to its Pacific Northwest (PNW) middle market banking leadership team as senior vice president and middle market director. Recognized as one of the PNW region’s leading corporate bankers, Ericksen strengthens Umpqua’s capacity to support the growth and evolution of the region’s large middle market companies.

According to Richard Cabrera, evp and head of Umpqua’s middle market banking division, Ericksen’s hire is part of Umpqua’s strategy to recruit top bankers and market leaders across its West Coast footprint to expand access to the sophisticated expertise needed by complex, high-growth enterprises, particularly during a period of continued economic uncertainty.

“Businesses have persevered through tremendous disruption and many have adapted in ways that position them for growth as the economy stabilizes. A trusted, capable banking partner has never been more critical to their continued success,” said Cabrera. “Dave brings uncommon expertise and skill to our team of bankers and his addition illustrates the high priority Umpqua has placed on helping our customers gain a competitive advantage through periods of both economic expansion and contraction.”

Before joining Umpqua, Ericksen contributed to the success of US Bank and Key Bank over his more than 25 years in banking. Most recently, he served as an enterprise banker at Key Bank, where he successfully helped drive that institution’s growth in a variety of key sectors, including health care, metals & recycling, and food and beverage, among others.

“Dave is a highly-regarded banker with long-standing connections to our region’s industries, economy, and companies,” said Jonathan Dale, evp and Pacific Northwest executive of middle market banking. “Throughout his career, Dave has established trusted relationships with middle market business owners, helping them finance growth, optimize working capital, and automate cashflow. His leadership experience and forward-thinking approach to understanding a business’ vision and objectives will complement Umpqua’s high-touch client experience.”

Ericksen earned a B.B.A. in Accounting & Finance from Pacific Lutheran University and an Executive Leadership Certification from University of Washington. He’s also a graduate of Pacific Coast Banking School, and during his career has held licenses as a Certified Treasury Professional (CTP), an Oregon Life & Health Insurance professional, and a Series 6 & 63. Ericksen currently serves on the board of Portland Opera.

About Umpqua Bank
Umpqua Bank, headquartered in Roseburg, Ore., is a subsidiary of Umpqua Holdings Corporation, and has locations across Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California and Nevada. Umpqua Bank has been recognized for its innovative customer experience and banking strategy by national publications including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, BusinessWeek, Fast Company and CNBC. The company has been recognized for eight years in a row on FORTUNE magazine's list of the country's "100 Best Companies to Work For," and was recently named by The Portland Business Journal the Most Admired Financial Services Company in Oregon for the sixteenth consecutive year. In addition to its retail banking presence, Umpqua Bank owns Financial Pacific Leasing, Inc., a nationally recognized commercial finance company that provides equipment leases to small businesses. A subsidiary of Umpqua Holdings Corporation, Umpqua Investments, Inc., provides retail brokerage and investment advisory services in offices throughout Washington, Oregon, California and Nevada.

The Lane Education Service District Board of Directors will meet on Tuesday, March 2, 2021, 6:00 p.m.  The meeting will be conducted remotely.  The agenda will be available online at www.lesd.k12.or.us.

Coos Bay School District - Public Meeting Notice for March 2021

Coos Bay School District meetings are subject to the Public Meetings Law (ORS 192.610-192.710).  Notice of additional meetings will be sent out as necessary. The public is welcome to attend.

Negotiations Committee - Licensed
Date: Tuesday, March 2, 2021 at 4:00pm
Location: Google Meets https://meet.google.com/gha-faeq-skh Or dial: +1 563-293-3306 PIN: 975 326 049#

The Negotiations Committee will meet on March 2, 2021 at 4:00pm. The purpose of the meeting is to hold negotiations with the Licensed team. To support the Governor's recommendations for social distancing, the Negotiations Committee will meet by video conference only. For more information, contact Adrian DeLeon at iand@coos-bay.k12.or.us">adriand@coos-bay.k12.or.us.

Regular School Board Meeting
Date: Monday, March 8, 2021 at 6:00pm
Location: Video conference

The Coos Bay School District (CBSD) Board of Directors will hold a Regular School Board on Monday, March 8, 2021 at 6:00pm. The agenda and packet will be posted HERE the Friday before the meeting. To support the Governor's recommendations for social distancing, the CBSD Board of Directors will conduct the March 8 meeting by video conference only. Members of the public may watch the board meeting live. 

Public Input: To sign up for public input, e-mail or call the Board Secretary at 541-267-1310 or yg@coos-bay.k12.or.us">shelbyg@coos-bay.k12.or.us. Deadline to sign up for public input is 12:00pm the day of the meeting. Those signed up will be given a telephone access code to the meeting. Speakers may offer objective criticism of school operations and programs, but the board will not hear personal complaints concerning school personnel nor against any person connected with the school system. The board chair will direct the visitor to the appropriate means for board consideration and disposition of legitimate complaints involving individuals. (Board Policy BDDH)

Policy Committee Meetings
Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2021 at 4:00pm
Location: Milner Crest Education Center, 1255 Hemlock Ave., Coos Bay OR 97420

The purpose of this meeting is to review policies in order to make recommendations to the Board. For more information, contact Kim Brick at KimBr@coos-bay.k12.or.us or the Superintendent’s office at 541-267-1310.

School Site Council Meetings – during the school year (Reference: ORS 329.704 (external Link))

Below are North Bend School District public meetings currently scheduled for March:
 

March 4, 2021

Regular Board Meeting 7:00 p.m. via Zoom online meeting.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81575698723?pwd=akFvSWFJQ254cDB4U1EwQjAzaEk3QT09
Meeting ID: 815 7569 8723
Passcode: 9su5wv
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,81575698723#,,,,,,0#,,826393# US (New York)
+12532158782,,81575698723#,,,,,,0#,,826393# US (Tacoma)
Dial by your location
        +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
        +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
        +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
        +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
        +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
        +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 815 7569 8723
Passcode: 826393
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcfVmHbsXz

March 18, 2021

Board Meeting – Work Session with Executive Session 5:30 p.m. via Zoom online meeting

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81575698723?pwd=akFvSWFJQ254cDB4U1EwQjAzaEk3QT09
Meeting ID: 815 7569 8723
Passcode: 9su5wv
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,81575698723#,,,,,,0#,,826393# US (New York)
+12532158782,,81575698723#,,,,,,0#,,826393# US (Tacoma)
Dial by your location
        +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
        +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
        +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
        +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
        +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
        +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 815 7569 8723
Passcode: 826393Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcfVmHbsXz

The Board will meet in executive session to review and evaluate the employment-related performance of the chief executive officer of any public body, a public officer, employee or staff member who does not request an open hearing, pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(i).

The schedule is subject to change.
Please email cschreiber@nbend.k12.or.us or visit http://www.nbend.k12.or.us/boardmeeting.html for agenda information.

ROSEBURG, Ore., Feb. 26, 2021--NeighborWorks Umpqua has provided housing and community development services to southwest Oregon for over 30 years. NeighborWorks Umpqua’s unwavering commitment to its mission enables the empowerment of so many individuals, families and even businesses in the southern Oregon region. With NeighborWorks Umpqua’s service-driven stakeholders, funders, and in tandem with nonprofit partners and committed civic leaders, they strive to build a stronger and more resilient community.

No success is without its challenges. The NeighborWorks Umpqua board is taking the organization in a new direction with the departure of their Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operations Officer. Through careful and considered action, the NeighborWorks Umpqua Board has engaged strong interim leadership to guide the staff and the organization through this transition and to continue to work throughout these challenging times.

“We are grateful to be a part of the continued health and growth of the southern Oregon community, and we deeply appreciate the continued support of our mission,” states Randall Mason, NeighborWorks Umpqua Board Chair.

About NeighborWorks Umpqua 
NeighborWorks Umpqua is a rural-focused housing and community development corporation committed to promoting opportunity for all. We will do this by providing quality housing, community development, property management, financial services, education, and advocacy in order to attain economic, social and environmental sustainability, and equity. 

Oregon’s Project Turnkey Gains Momentum: $11.4 Million in Additional Grants Brings Three More Motel Properties Online to Provide Lodging for Displaced Community Members

Project Turnkey Provides Grants for Properties Located in Corvallis, Eugene and Lincoln City

Corvallis, Eugene and Lincoln City, Ore. – February 26, 2021 – Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) today announced that Project Turnkey is gaining momentum with three additional grants awarded to properties in Corvallis, Eugene and Lincoln City.

Corvallis Housing First (CHF) was selected to receive one of the next Project Turnkey grants, in the amount of $2.475 million in state funds to purchase and transform a 24-room hotel in Corvallis, Oregon. Priority will be given to the most vulnerable members of the Corvallis community who are unhoused, including people with disabilities, veterans, people of color and seniors.

"We are so excited for this opportunity to provide more safe shelter options during the pandemic and permanent supported housing to people experiencing chronic homelessness in our community," said Andrea Myhre, Executive Director of Corvallis Housing First, “This project came together because of good planning as well as partners and volunteers working tirelessly to come up with new solutions for getting people into housing.”

Located at 1480 SW 3rd St, Corvallis, OR 97333, CHF anticipates the facility to be in use beginning in March 2021.

Lane County Human Services was also selected to receive a Project Turnkey grant, in the amount of $5.56 million in state funds to purchase and transform a 50-room hotel in Eugene, Oregon. Priority will be given to wildfire evacuees.

“The Holiday Farm Fire was absolutely devastating to thousands of residents along the McKenzie River,” said Lane County Commissioner Heather Buch. “Six months later and people are still struggling to find acceptable temporary housing. Project Turnkey is an incredible investment and will provide a lot of families with a safe place to live while they work through the rebuilding process.”

Located at 599 East Broadway, Eugene, OR 97401, Lane County Human Services anticipates the facility to be in use beginning in March 2021.

Northwest Coastal Housing (NWCH) in Lincoln City is another Project Turnkey grant awardee, slated to receive $3.348 million in state funds to purchase a 42-room hotel along Highway 101 in Lincoln City, Oregon. Priority will be given to community members displaced by the Echo Mountain Complex Fire.  

"This is wonderful news for survivors of the Echo Mountain Fire,” Claire Hall, Board of County Commissioners for Lincoln County and Chair of Oregon Housing Stability Council, said. “North Lincoln County's critical housing shortage was exacerbated by the fire. Too many individuals and families are still living in their vehicles, are doubled up with friends or relatives, or in other unstable situations. This will give them a safe, long-term place to work on rebuilding their homes and their lives."

Located at 1014 NE Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367, NWCH anticipates the new “Phoenix Rising NW” to be in use beginning in March 2021.