The U.S. government shutdown has turned off the spigot of federal aid for people who need help to keep the heat on.

The situation in Washington state is not as dire as in other places.

KUOW’s John Ryan reports.

SNAP benefits are reportedly back for many– but food banks have been very busy during the program’s week-long stall. N-W-P-B’s Renee Diaz has more.

A warming climate means Oregon now has a growing olive oil sector. And as Kristian Foden-Vencil reports, those in the industry are celebrating the ‘Olio Nuovo ((OH-lee-oh nu-OH-voh)) Festival’ this month ((NOV)).

Back in the 1960s, it was widely accepted that Oregon was too cold and wet to produce wine. Since then, the state has built an international reputation as a wine destination.

Now a lot of people still think it’s too cold for olives.

But as Kristian Foden-Vencil reports, scores of Willamette Valley farmers are experimenting with hardy olive varieties and this month ((NOV)) they’re celebrating the ‘Olio Nuovo (OH-lee-oh nu-OH-vo) Festival.’

Oregon taxpayers can expect a one-point-four billion dollar refund when they file next year. As Dirk VanderHart reports, that’s because of the state’s unique kicker law.

In Central Oregon, Bend-La Pine Schools is trying to address a lack of affordable homes for its workforce. The district is selling some of its unused land to an affordable housing developer. Kathryn Styer Martínez reports.

Some of Central Oregon’s high mountain roads are closing this month, while recreation areas are getting ready for winter tourism. Kathryn Styer Martínez reports.

The Medford City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to accept grant money to convert vacant nonresidential buildings into affordable housing.

Anders Ibsen will be Tacoma’s next mayor after winning more than 27,000 votes – defeating current city councilmember John Hines. KNKX reporter Mitch Borden has more.

A grant from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality will allow the city of Medford to develop 55 units of affordable housing, and reduce carbon emissions in construction.