Hidden Valley High School Students Witness Graphic Results of DUII Crash Simulation

Hidden Valley High School students were witnesses to the graphic reality of a two-vehicle crash simulation as part of the national "Every 15 Minutes" campaign on Wednesday. The simulation was staged on the track in front of the grandstands, where students experienced a realistic perspective of what can happen as a result of impaired or distracted driving. As the students watched in silence, several kids were packaged and transported to hospitals and one was transported to the morgue. A student "driver" who survived was taken to jail due to "a high level of impairment." Rural Metro Fire Department officials said this message of prevention comes as students are preparing for their prom and the end of the school year. They said it's everyone's wish that they all make good decisions while having fun. Officials said families should have serious conversations regarding the dangers of driving impaired or being a passenger with someone who might be impaired. To learn more, visit "every15minutes.com." ...Read more

Jackson County Sheriff's Office Named "2023 Oregon DUII Enforcement Agency of Year"

The Jackson County Sheriff's Office was honored with the 2023 Oregon DUII Enforcement Agency of the Year Award in a ceremony last week. The award came from the Oregon DUII Multi-Disciplinary Training Task Force in recognition for outstanding professional achievement in the deterrence and prevention of impaired driving in the state. This award highlighted the Sheriff's Office comprehensive approach to ensuring road safety and reducing DUII incidents within Jackson County. In 2023, the Sheriff's Patrol Division -- which was comprised of approximately 40 sworn personnel -- was responsible for 1,032 crash investigations, 367 DUII arrests and 13,526 traffic stops. Beyond DUII enforcement, Jackson County has adopted a strategy to prevent DUIIs, emphasizing strong community ties and proactive education. These efforts include the launch of a Citizen Recognition Program to honor and encourage public involvement in identifying impaired drivers, enhancing collaborations with emergency response teams, and the delivery of extensive educational programs targeting various community segments. The Sheriff's Office also places a significant emphasis on law enforcement training including refreshers on field sobriety testing, advanced roadside impaired driving enforcement and specialized courses on drug influence evaluation. ...Read more

AllCare Health Awards $200K Grant to CASA of Oregon for Josephine County Housing

AllCare Health is pleased to announce a $200,000 grant award to CASA of Oregon for a significant housing project in Josephine County. This grant is for the preservation of a 110-space co-op manufactured home park in Grants Pass. AllCare officials said they are proud to support CASA of Oregon as a pioneering leader in services that improve community economic and housing stability while reducing the burden of homelessness and housing insecurity. This project supports members of AllCare Health's Coordinated Care Organization, low-income community members, tribal community members, and particularly community members experiencing economic and housing instability along with behavioral health challenges. AllCare Health is an innovative, physician-owned and locally-operated healthcare organization. The grant is part of AllCare's pledge of $2.7 million this year for improving the health and well-being of all Southern Oregon communities. CASA of Oregon is a non-profit community partner with AllCare providing housing stability for individuals and families throughout the state. ...Read more